Opinion: Nick Saban posed a pivotal question for college football, and Vanderbilt provided a clear response
During his final season as Alabama’s head coach, Nick Saban often posed a thought-provoking rhetorical question.
“Is this what we want college football to turn into?” he questioned, especially in light of the pay-for-play shift.
This transformation was not what Saban envisioned, and I commend him for choosing to retire last winter rather than remain in a role that increasingly drained him due to the current direction of college football.
College football is navigating a continuously changing environment filled with realignments and legal disputes, with player payment structures still not entirely clear. It’s undeniably chaotic.
Nevertheless, amidst this messy situation, the NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) landscape and the freedom for players to transfer have created more competitive balance than in the past. Now, elite teams like Alabama struggle to keep top talents in reserve.
When Saturday rolls around, any concerns about the sport’s well-being typically fade away.
The entertainment value of college football remains high, and this past Saturday delivered one of the most unforgettable days in recent memory.
Within less than 12 hours, teams ranked Nos. 2, 4, 9, 10, and 15 in the US LBM Coaches Poll all fell, while No. 8 Miami barely avoided an upset against California after the clock struck midnight in three different time zones.
The most shocking moment of the day unfolded in an unexpected location. Fans of Alabama witnessed their team lose to Vanderbilt for the first time in 40 years at FirstBank Stadium in Nashville.
Transfers played a key role in Vanderbilt’s 40-35 victory.
While specifics about a school’s NIL funding are often kept under wraps, it’s clear that Vanderbilt is not at the top in terms of SEC funding for football. However, financial resources alone won’t ensure possession of the ball; the Commodores capitalized on a two-turnover advantage and controlled the ball for 42 minutes to slow down Alabama.
Vanderbilt largely stayed out of the transfer market in the 2022 and 2023 seasons, but after facing struggles in the SEC, Clark Lea took proactive steps before this crucial season and recruited 22 transfers.
One of these recruits is a confident 6-foot quarterback. Diego Pavia, who transferred from New Mexico State, has experience pulling off upsets against SEC teams.
Last season, he led New Mexico State to victory over Auburn, and now he has played a crucial role in handing Alabama one of the most shocking defeats in its history.
“That is the dream,” said Lea, a Vanderbilt graduate. “That’s why I came here. This is what I aimed to achieve.”
After accomplishing this goal, Vanderbilt will need to replace their goal posts. The yellow uprights at FirstBank Stadium fell victim to this exhilarating evening.
Fans from Vanderbilt celebrated by carrying the goal posts through the lively Broadway Street and tossing them into the Cumberland River.
“Cheers to more nights like this,” Lea said.
Indeed, here’s to that, as Saturday exemplified the college football experience we all desire.
Here’s what else I’ve noted in this “Topp Rope” perspective on college football:
Many fines incoming!
Arkansas held its ground against then-No. 4 Tennessee, clinching a 19-14 win as the clock ran out. The field quickly turned into a celebration spot for Razorbacks fans.
Heads up, SEC office! Another fine for field-storming is on the way.
“I think the athletic director might be upset. Or maybe he won’t be, I’m not sure,” Razorbacks coach Sam Pittman noted with a grin, referencing his boss Hunter Yurachek. “At this moment, I’m not concerned. Go Hogs. Go Hogs, baby.”
Arkansas can cover the fine with savings from not having sacked Pittman earlier, avoiding any big payout to him. Before this season, he was on a notably hot seat, acknowledging this issue during SEC media days in July.
“I’m HOT,” Pittman declared then, calling attention to his precarious situation.
Currently sitting at 4-2 this season, that heat has lessened for him. The atmosphere is significantly calmer in Fayetteville.
Impact of Losses on College Football Playoff Aspirations
Here’s my ranking of the five top-15 teams that suffered defeats on Saturday regarding their playoff chances, from the greatest likelihood to make the playoffs to the least.
Alabama (4-1), lost 40-35 at Vanderbilt: Despite this unexpected loss, the Crimson Tide can still afford another loss and secure an at-large playoff spot. While this defeat was disappointing, Alabama’s overall record still benefits from their win against Georgia. The challenge lies in achieving a 10-2 finish, especially with upcoming road games at Tennessee, LSU, and Oklahoma.
Southern California (3-2), lost 24-17 at Minnesota: Lincoln Riley and the Trojans are in a tough spot. They must win all their remaining games to even be considered for the playoffs. With an 0-2 record on the road after a previous loss to Michigan, their hopes are dwindling. The silver lining is that they only face two ranked opponents, Penn State and Notre Dame, both at home. However, with seven games left, including potentially tricky matchups, the Trojans could struggle, except for perhaps a home game against a struggling UCLA team.
Missouri (4-1), lost 41-10 at Texas A&M: The Tigers were demonstrated as playoff contenders in this decisive loss. By halftime, it was clear the game was already decided. Missouri has the easiest schedule of the teams mentioned, but even a 10-2 record might not be enough for playoff contention. To finish with an 11-1 record, they would need to beat Alabama.
Michigan (4-2), lost 27-17 at Washington: The Wolverines’ playoff hopes are dwindling. Apparently, being able to complete passes is pretty important for a playoff run. To qualify, Michigan would have to win all their remaining games, which include four ranked teams.
Three and Out
1. Amongst the teams at the top struggling, No. 5 Penn State (5-0) continues their winning streak, leading me to consider promoting them from my playoff hopefuls to serious national championship contenders. For now, I’m hesitant, but their performance mirrors that of the 2023 Michigan team that went undefeated. Penn State’s defense, featuring several NFL prospects, has allowed only 18 points across their last three games. The concern? Penn State has a history of faltering in the latter part of the season when the competition toughens. Their upcoming games against USC and Ohio State will be telling.
2. The biggest success story from Saturday? Possibly No. 8 Mississippi (5-1). The Rebels bounced back from a loss to Kentucky at home by defeating South Carolina 27-3. Following losses from Alabama and Vanderbilt, Ole Miss’s defeat looks less severe. With many teams experiencing setbacks, a 10-2 record might put the Rebels in good playoff position. Keep an eye on their Saturday matchup against No. 10 LSU (4-1); only one might secure a playoff spot.
3. The latest “Topp Rope” 12-team playoff forecast includes Texas (SEC), Ohio State (Big Ten), Kansas State (Big 12), Miami (ACC), Boise State (Group of Five), along with other at-large bids like Alabama, Georgia, Ole Miss, Penn State, Oregon, Clemson, and Notre Dame. Next in line are Texas A&M, Tennessee, Iowa State, LSU, and Brigham Young.
