I am no Saban homer, but I do appreciate and respect greatness when it is accomplished correctly. Typically people who are successful don't really care what people think. They are unapologetically themselves and while they may make a few enemies by being that way, the allies they make are far more reliable than to those who try gaining success by working to appease everyone. Those type of people may make more "friends", but the relationships are usually superficial. I believe that Saban is who he is, doesn't over complicate things, builds great relationships with like minded people, mentors those people, and never waivers from his beliefs to impress. I saw in his face when he met Kirby at mid-field that he was truly happy that he won last night. Probably because he cares for the guy he mentored for so many years, but also likely takes pride in seeing someone that he mentored be so successful (to the point of beating him even). I know society, media, and egos say it's all about winning, but sometimes it really isn't everything; or better yet sometimes winning is more than about the game on the field and more about the individual wins that are taking place which lead to greater causes. The way I see it is Saban was going to be a winner in this game either way since without him, Kirby wouldn't be who he is. I think I can confidently say this about Saban since it seems like no one has anything negative to say about his character, and he is among very few leaders that has created such a significant tree of other successful leaders.
With that said, I'm ready for him to retire.
