This Saturday in Tuscaloosa won’t just be about football—it will be about history, pride, and the celebration of a legend. As Alabama takes the field against Vanderbilt, the Crimson Tide will not only be chasing redemption after last year’s stunning upset, but also honoring the man who turned their program into the gold standard of college football. Nick Saban, the architect of Alabama’s dynasty and one of the greatest coaches the sport has ever seen, will be recognized during the first quarter with a once-in-a-lifetime Hall of Fame tribute at Bryant-Denny Stadium.
This Saturday, Bryant-Denny Stadium will host more than just a pivotal SEC showdown—it will also celebrate the legacy of one of college football’s most iconic figures. Former Alabama head coach Nick Saban will be honored by the National Football Foundation and the College Football Hall of Fame during the first quarter of Alabama’s home game against Vanderbilt.
Saban, now an ESPN College GameDay analyst, will officially be inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame on December 9 at the Bellagio Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. His career, spanning 28 seasons, includes an unmatched seven national championships—six with Alabama and one with LSU—alongside 11 SEC titles and a staggering 292-71-1 overall record.
During his tenure in Tuscaloosa from 2007 to 2023, Saban transformed the Crimson Tide into a modern dynasty. He coached four Heisman Trophy winners—Mark Ingram, Derrick Henry, DeVonta Smith, and Bryce Young—and produced 52 first-round NFL Draft picks. His teams were known for their dominance, particularly against unranked opponents, compiling a 123-4 record and winning 100 consecutive games in that category.
Nick Saban to be inducted into College Football Hall of Fame
“Nick Saban set the modern standard for coaching excellence, building dynasties defined by discipline, preparation, and unmatched success while earning his place as one of the greatest coaches in the history of the game,” said Steve Hatchell, President and CEO, National Football Foundation & College Football Hall of Fame, Inc., in a statement. “His induction solidifies the model of leadership and sustained greatness in college football.”
Saban’s impact extended beyond wins and trophies. His recruiting prowess led to 16 straight top-five classes, and his leadership redefined excellence in college football. The recognition on Saturday is a fitting tribute to a coach whose influence will be felt for generations,
Kickoff between No. 10 Alabama and No. 16 Vanderbilt is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. CT on ABC, with Saban’s tribute taking place during the first quarter.
Alabama vs. Vanderbilt: All-Time Football Series Stats
The Crimson Tide and Commodores have met 86 times since their first matchup in 1903, with Alabama holding a commanding lead in the series:
Alabama Wins: 63
Vanderbilt Wins: 19
Ties: 4
Current Streak: Vanderbilt won the last meeting in 2024, ending Alabama’s 23-game win streak. [Winsipedia…games list]
Notable Series Highlights:
Largest Alabama Win: 71–0 in 1945
Last Vanderbilt Win in Tuscaloosa: 1984 (30–21)
Last Meeting: 2024 – Vanderbilt 40, Alabama 35 (in Nashville)
Alabama Home Record vs. Vanderbilt: 32–5–2
Alabama Away Record vs. Vanderbilt: 29–14–2 [Alabama At…Vanderbilt]
Despite Vanderbilt’s historic upset last season, Alabama has dominated the series for decades, especially at home. Saturday’s matchup will be a chance for the Crimson Tide to reassert its dominance—and honor the coach who helped build it.
