For a fifth time in his coaching career, Nick Saban will lead his program against Notre Dame.
Prior to Friday’s matchup at the Rose Bowl, Saban has battled three ranked Fighting Irish teams — including a top-ranked group in the 2013 BCS National Championship Game.
Although he is chasing a legend in Paul W. “Bear” Bryant, in terms of national championships, Saban has an edge over the six-time champion in one specific area at the University of Alabama.
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Coach Bryant had a way of making opponents feel insignificant, especially during his illustrious 25-year career. However, the one obstacle he never conquered was Notre Dame.
Despite winning 14 Southeastern Conference titles, three AFCA Coach of the Year awards and 12 SEC Coach of the Year awards, Bryant was winless in four tries against the Fighting Irish.
All four of his defeats in 1973, 1974, 1976 and 1980 came against ranked Irish teams.
History of Coach Bryant vs. Notre Dame
-1973: #3 Notre Dame 24, #1 Alabama 23
-1974: #9 Notre Dame 13, #2 Alabama 11
-1976: #18 Notre Dame 21, #10 Alabama 18
-1980: #6 Notre Dame 7, #5 Alabama 0
The losses Bryant took in 1973 (23-24) and 1974 (11-13) versus Notre Dame spoiled perfect seasons for the Tide. Even in death, the legend wants to see Saban continue his work of dominance.
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Saban, unlike Bryant, has compiled a perfect 4-0 record against Notre Dame. Three of his wins come from his time as a head coach at Michigan State University from 1995 to 1999. His teams defeated the Fighting Irish in 1997, 1998 and 1999 — including a pair of victories over ranked groups for Notre Dame in 1998 and 1999.
Under the leadership of Brian Kelly, the Fighting Irish were No. 1 in the nation upon its meeting against the Crimson Tide in the 2013 BCS title game to conclude the 2012 season.
Saban and Alabama delivered a 42-14 beatdown Kelly’s team, en route to winning a national championship.
History of Coach Saban vs. Notre Dame
-1997: Michigan State 23, Notre Dame 7
-1998: Michigan State 45, #10 Notre Dame 23
-1999: Michigan State 23, #24 Notre Dame 13
-2013: #2 Alabama 42, #1 Notre Dame 14 (BCS National Championship)
A win this week would move Saban to 5-0 all-time against Notre Dame.
He does not want to see his record go down, but Bryant will okay with Saban passing him — if it means he will take down the Fighting Irish again.
Notre Dame got the better of one Tide legend; nevertheless, Saban is locked on to a national title.
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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
