Pete Golding 'absolutely' plans on returning as Alabama defensive coordinator

Alabama has not had a season up to the program’s standards, losing two games during the regular season to SEC rivals. Their punishment? A Sugar Bowl appearance against the Big 12 champion Kansas State Wildcats, scheduled for New Year’s Eve at 11 a.m. CT.

Many fans are hoping for some kind of change to be made, specifically at the coordinator spots. Between OC Bill O’Brien and defensive coordinator Pete Golding, people are hoping head coach Nick Saban finds replacements.

However, Golding says he has no plans of leaving Tuscaloosa anytime soon — at least for the 2023 season. When asked if he was going to return, it was a pretty definitive yes from Golding.

“I’m still under contract, so absolutely,” Golding said.

Golding has been the Alabama defensive coordinator since 2018 when Jeremy Pruitt left in favor of the Tennessee job. Vintage Saban defense is not how you would describe the Crimson Tide since then but it’s nearly impossible to get back to that level with how offenses run in college football these days.

As far as his contract, Golding will have a deal with Alabama until the end of next season. Per the Tuscaloosa News, the defensive coordinator’s deal ends on Feb. 29, 2024. So if Golding is going to be coaching anywhere else next season, Saban will be making the decision himself.

Kansas State will provide Golding one more opportunity to put on a good defensive performance, especially with everyone opting to play. Going up against a tough rushing attack with Deuce Vaughn, there will be no easy plays for Alabama on New Year’s.

Bill O’Brien addresses Alabama future

Nick Saban has gotten used to his coordinators being replaced on a regular basis. Many have taken jobs elsewhere, mainly at the college level. Offensive coordinator Bill O’Brien could be the latest to do so, with his name being linked with the New England Patriots.

But for now, he is still employed by Alabama and has a Sugar Bowl against Kansas State coming up on Saturday. O’Brien said all of his focus is on the Wildcats, wanting to get another win to close out the 2022 season.

In fact, there have not even been conversations with New England in nearly eight months.

“The focus for me and this coaching staff is on these games we’re playing,” O’Brien said. “This game coming up. … Those things are addressed after the season. … I haven’t spoken to anybody in New England since last April.”