For the first time in six years, Alabama is not in the College Football Playoff.
The Crimson Tide is also not representing the Southeastern Conference in the CFP National Championship Game for the first time in five years; however, ESPN still has need of Nick Saban.
While the pressure is on either Ed Orgeron (LSU) or Dabo Swinney (Clemson) to hoist the trophy, Saban will provide his analysis during the pregame and halftime report on the title matchup from the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans (La.) on next Monday night.
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News came via ESPN on Thursday as the network takes over the French Quarter for extensive coverage for four days – starting on Friday, Jan. 10.
Saban headlines the roster of guests and in 40+ hours of studio programming, ESPN will have 60 commentators on site for the event.
When it comes to national championships, Saban is a veteran in the game.
The 68-year-old has six national titles, including one at LSU in 2003.
After winning the Citrus Bowl against Michigan, he is focused on getting the Tide back to the mountaintop next season.
His coverage, like his coaching, will be very thorough next week.
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Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
