Paul Finebaum thinks Alabama HC Kalen DeBoer already "lost to Nick Saban" ahead of the 2024 CFB season

Matching Nick Saban's level of success at Alabama is arguably among the toughest jobs in the nation. The Crimson Tide's rich program history is credited to their six national championships, nine SEC titles, four Heisman Trophy winners, and various NFL draft picks under coach Saban.

Many fans and analysts were thrilled to see Kalen Deboer take charge and believed that he was the best person for the job. Coach DeBoer has proven himself everywhere he's been, which is reflected in his 104-12 overall record as a coach.

Speaking on "First Take," college football analyst Paul Finebaum referred to Kalen DeBoer's presence during the 2024 SEC media days as a "loss" against Nick Saban:

"Kalen DeBoer did everything right last week at SEC media days. And he still lost, he lost to Nick Saban, who was there for the media. About by the way, he complained on Monday to the producers that he didn't have enough work. That's the intensity this guy has, because Saban just stole the show from every single person including Kalen DeBoer.

"I mean, I wondered it throughout the week. Was he even here because he's a nice personality. He's charming. He's low key, but you're right. He's not Nick Saban. And if he doesn't get to the playoffs next year, most Alabama fans and most of us in the media are going to consider the season a complete and total bust.

"That may sound unfair, but it's the reality. He had the credentials. He got the job. Now if he doesn't get there, it's going to be a failure. And by the way, he has a mulligan, a mulligan this year, get to the playoffs. After that, you better start winning some championships." (2:30)

What is Nick Saban doing now?

Following the end of his 17-year-old journey in Alabama, coach Saban is now enjoying retirement by doing things he couldn't before. Coach Saban is seen spending time with his family, including his wife, Miss Terry, daughter, Kristen Saban, and grandson, James.

Earlier this month, Coach Saban was seen enjoying a fun game of corn hole during the Fourth of July weekend. Other than that, fans were thrilled to know about his participation in the College GameDay panel and appreciated his insights during the 2024 NFL draft and the SEC Media Days.