Nick Saban claims Alabama 'needs to learn to play for 60 minutes'

College football is a 60-minute game. Alabama head coach Nick Saban wants 60-minute players. During an appearance on “Hey Coach & the Nick Saban Show,” Saban addressed Alabama’s dominant second half in the team’s 34-20 win over Tennessee.

“The key to the game was was the fact that we got the ball in the second half and had an explosive run on the first play an explosive passing touchdown on the second play,” Saban said. “The electricity in the stadium went off the charts. From that time on, we were pretty much able to dominate the game.”

Saban is spot-on. It only took Alabama 41 seconds in the second half to cut Tennessee’s lead to 20-14. With momentum by their side, the Crimson Tide forced Tennessee’s offense to a three-and-out. Alabama kicked a field goal on the ensuing drive. 20-17.

Once again, Tennessee failed to convert on offense, committing a turnover on downs. Just five plays later, Alabama had the lead. The Crimson Tide rode the current, never looking back. The two-quarter showcase was a harsh contrast to the first half.

In the first quarter alone, Tennessee tallied 187 yards compared to Alabama’s measly 36. Alabama’s offense has become all-too-familiar with comeback wins. While Saban was thrilled with the team’s second-half performance, he knows it takes more than 30 minutes to win championships.

Nick Saban demands more from his team

“I was really pleased with the way we played in the second half but your experiences are an accumulation of your mess-ups in life. That’s what helps you learn and gain experience,” Saban said. “I used that analogy with our players that we need to learn to play for 60 minutes. You got to start fast in the game and you’ve got to be able to play for 60 minutes.

“We’re learning those lessons and maturing and growing,” Saban said. “I was pleased with the way we played in the second half on offense and defense, both. Hopefully, we keep developing and growing because we got some tough games coming up and it’s going to take that kind of effort of everybody being all in for 60 minutes to be able to have success.”

Alabama’s first tough game of the back half of the season is just around the corner. After enjoying their bye week, the Crimson Tide will take on No. 15 LSU on Nov. 4. Alabama owes the Tigers after LSU downed Alabama 32-31 last season.