"We have a good group of guys here, we could actually have practice": Nick Saban gives classic response while receiving Icon Award at ESPYs

Nick Saban is one of the greatest coaches in the history of college football. Under his legacy, Alabama won six national championships and nine SEC titles from 2007 to 2023. After spending 17 glorious years in Alabama, Saban announced his retirement on January 24, 2024.

On Thursday, Nick Saban was honored with the Icon Award at the 2024 ESPYs for his triumphant coaching run. Coach Saban received the award from two former Heisman Trophy winners: Mark Ingram and Bryce Young.

"Thank you so much," Saban said upon receiving the award. "It's an honor for me to have two of our former Heisman Trophy winners be here to present this award to me. And it's also very thankful for the other players, former players complete for us that are here tonight. We have a good group of guys here, enough that we could actually have practice after this show."

"But you know, we've always been blessed with having great individual athletes, but they've also been great people. And I think that's what contributed to our success."

Saban ended his career on a high note in a thrilling Rose Bowl showdown against Jim Harbaugh's Michigan, where the Crimson Tide went down in a thrilling 27-20 matchup.

Kalen DeBoer on taking forward Nick Saban's legacy at Alabama

Following Nick Saban's retirement, fans were concerned about Alabama's future. However, their concerns were soon put to rest when former Washington head coach Kalen DeBoer stepped in for the role. DeBoer has proven his worth as head coach everywhere he's been, which is fairly reflected in his 104-12 overall record.

In a conversation on "Next Up With Adam Breneman," DeBoer opened up about enjoying his time at Alabama during his first year as head coach:

"You embrace and enjoy everything that comes along with the place you're at, the tradition, the just the culture, the excitement of the fan base, just, you know, and then the challenge of just building, and adding to it, that's been a joy of mine at previous stops and looking forward to doing that here at Alabama." [Time stamp - 13:50]

Fans would be interested to see how Alabama performs under Kalen DeBoer during their first post-Nick Saban season in 2024.