In a segment on ESPN's "College GameDay," Saban reportedly identified Clemson as the "most disappointing team of the season" when given a choice between the Tigers and Florida State.
This assessment was part of a broader, more direct message Saban had for the Clemson head coach amid the program's struggles.
Blunt Advice on a Changing Game
Saban, who now serves as an analyst, has repeatedly used his platform to advise Swinney, his former championship rival. Speaking on "College GameDay" in September, Saban stated that Swinney must adapt to the new era of college football.
- On the Standard: Saban acknowledged that Swinney "created the success... a standard and an expectation at Alabama".
- On Adapting: He was unequivocal that Swinney's old methods are no longer enough. "Dabo needs to look at what he needs to do in his program... The game has changed, and you need to change with it".
- On NIL and the Portal: Saban specifically called out the areas Swinney has famously resisted, asking, "Do you have to change the portal (approach)? Do you have to change name, image, and likeness (approach)?".
On Swinney Leaving Clemson
Regarding the possibility of Dabo Swinney leaving Clemson for one of the current high-profile job openings, Saban expressed doubt.
According to reports, Saban said it "would surprise me" if Swinney left. He noted that in his conversations with Swinney, "he never mentioned anything and he's been fully focused on his team having success".
This aligns with Swinney's own public statements. Swinney recounted a conversation he had with Saban following Saban's retirement in January 2024, when Swinney was rumored as a candidate for the Alabama job. Swinney confirmed he told Saban, "I'm where I'm supposed to be... this is home".