“I don't know why she puts up with me”: When Nick Saban humbly appreciated Miss Terry’s continued support

Nick Saban's wife, Miss Terry, has been a massive part of her husband's illustrious coaching career. He once reflected on her influence during a 2017 news conference.

"I think about sometimes when we had – you probably don’t even know what an old, rusted-out Volkswagen is – the old fastback type, you know, like whatever that model would have been, '60s of some sort, and go through the struggles that you go through, personally and professionally," Saban said.

"And to have a partner that has been supportive and an asset to the organization in every way is something that is really appreciated. And, you know, she’s been a great partner. And I don’t know why she puts up with me, but I’m very fortunate."

Nick Saban and Miss Terry have been together for 53 years.

In̈ that time, her husband went from the role of a graduate assistant at Kent State to leading one of college football's biggest programs and was able to make them the dominant force for years.

As with many coaching roles, there have been times when Saban has struggled. But Miss Terry has always been by his side, becoming an unofficial member of his coaching staff in a way.

Now that Saban has retired from coaching, he is able to spend more time with his wife.

What advice could Saban give to any newly engaged couple who may want a marriage like what he has with Miss Terry? He gave this piece of advice on ESPN's "College GameDay" on Saturday:

“Well, we’re going on 53 years," Saban said. "So, we have coffee cups; Miss Terry bought us coffee cups. My coffee cup says, ‘Mr. Right.’ I think that sounds good. But then her coffee cup says, ‘Mrs. Never Wrong."

Did Nick Saban predict the Gamecock's good season?

Moving forward to 2024, another thing that Saban said has become more than relevant today. This concerns the South Carolina Gamecocks and their chance of making the College Football Playoff.

Last season, the Gamecocks were not even in consideration with their 5-7 record. But Shane Beamer's team has seen a rapid improvement in 2024, going 9-3 this season, putting them into contention for a spot in the 12-team CFP.

This is something that Nick Saban should not be surprised by. He told the SEC Summerfest earlier in the year:

"They're really not that far off. They weren't that far off last year. ... They have some parts of their team that really could, if it works out, it could work out very well for them."

The Gamecocks have a chance to make the CFP. While Tuesday's rankings put them out of the bracket with the No. 14 ranking, the events of championship week could put them into the bracket, potentially at the expense of the Alabama Crimson Tide. Alabama is ranked No. 11.