Alabama’s Head Coach Kalen DeBoer Annoyed by Nick Saban’s Persistent Shadow: “Is He Coaching, Commentating, or Trying to Reclaim the Throne?”

TUSCALOOSA, AL — Alabama’s newly minted head football coach, Kalen DeBoer, is starting to realize that taking over one of the most legendary programs in college football comes with more baggage than just high expectations. In fact, it appears one particular piece of baggage refuses to be left behind: retired head coach Nick Saban.

DeBoer, who assumed the role following Saban’s retirement, expected the normal challenges that come with stepping into the shoes of a seven-time national champion. What he didn’t anticipate was having Saban’s actual shoes — along with the man himself — trailing him wherever he goes, offering unsolicited advice, popping up in team meetings, and occasionally even holding a clipboard.