Nick Saban explains how Bill Belichick helped him shape Alabama recruiting model

Nick Saban has had strong ties to New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick for years. Saban was hired to work under Belichick as the Cleveland Browns’ defensive coordinator from 1991-94 and the two elite coaches have remained friends ever since.

Earlier this week, the Alabama head coach made his weekly appearance on the Hey Coach & The Nick Saban Show.

When asked about his approach when it comes to recruiting players throughout the country, the Alabama front man brought up his former mentor and longtime friend.

“One thing that I learned, also from Belichick, is to define exactly what you’re looking for at every position,” Saban said.

“I think a lot of colleges, and a lot of college coaches, which has been my experience hiring new assistants, so they just go recruit players. If Oregon and Texas and LSU are recruiting them, then they are going to to recruit them.”

Again, Nick Saban brought back the Belichick philosophy, saying he doesn’t always approach recruiting the same way as many coaches he’s seen.

“But sometimes those players don’t fit your criteria in what you need from a certain player to play a position,” Saban added.

“If I can’t sit down and say, okay this guy meets the criteria to play outside backer for us, or he meets the criteria to play tight end for us, then I don’t care who’s recruiting them.”

Nick Saban gives prime example of recruiting philosophy

Without being prompted, Saban name dropped a player that all Crimson Tide fans will remember, while sharing keen insight into his recruitment.

“Josh Jacobs was an interesting example,” Saban continued.

“He didn’t get recruited by anybody, but he fit the profile for what we are looking for in a running back. He only had one other offer, and that was Missouri, and he didn’t get it until a week before signing day.”

A quick glance over Jacobs’ stat sheet during his three years at Alabama make it clear why he stood out for Saban and the Crimson Tide recruiting staff, even though there was little to no interest elsewhere from other programs.

The big-bodied running back played in 42 games over three seasons for Alabama where he racked up 1,491 rushing yards, 16 touchdowns and averaged 6 yards per touch.

His versatility is likely why Nick Saban knew he would be a great fit. Jacobs hauled in 48 receptions for 575 yards and five touchdowns as a receieving threat. The jack-of-all trades was utilized as both a kick and punt returner at times, and added two more touchdowns from contributing on special teams.

“Again, I think you have to know exactly what you’re looking for,” Nick Saban added.

Most importantly? Jacobs was splitting carries with Najee Harris and Damien Harris, but he was the right fit. He knew his role and executed it to perfection under the guidance of Saban.

It’s clear Saban listed to Belichick and continues to implement the same recruiting strategies now, that were previously passed down from one of the best NFL coaches in history.