Nick Saban Doubts Texas Can Dominate SEC Like Big 12

Alabama coach Nick Saban doesn't see the Texas Longhorns replicating their Big 12 success in the SEC, despite their impressive performance last season.

## Article:

Nick Saban Doubts Texas Can Dominate SEC Like Big 12

Nick Saban has established himself as an oracle in the college football world, his opinions carrying significant weight. When he speaks about the sport, people listen, especially when the topic involves his Alabama Crimson Tide's conference, the Southeastern Conference (SEC).

During a recent appearance on the SEC Network's "SEC Now" show, Saban shared his thoughts on the newest addition to the conference, the Texas Longhorns. Many believe the Longhorns, led by quarterback Quinn Ewers and head coach Steve Sarkisian, could dominate the SEC like they did in the Big 12 last year.

Nick Saban Doubts Texas Can Dominate SEC Like Big 12

However, Saban has a different perspective. "What kind of tickles me is all these people asking these questions about how Texas always ran the conference they were in," Saban said. "They're not gonna run the SEC."

Saban's reasoning is rooted in the SEC's long-standing reputation as a breeding ground for top-tier talent. Year after year, SEC schools produce some of the best players in college football, and when the College Football Playoff is set, it's not uncommon to see one or two SEC teams represented.

Nick Saban Doubts Texas Can Dominate SEC Like Big 12

The Longhorns, while an impressive squad, will have their work cut out for them in the SEC. Last year, five teams from the conference had 10 or more wins, showcasing the depth and competitiveness of the SEC. Texas, despite its 12-2 record and appearance in the College Football Playoff, will face a much tougher challenge in the SEC.

Saban's comments stem from his own experience facing Texas early in the 2023 season. The Crimson Tide lost to the Longhorns 34-24, Texas' only SEC opponent that year. However, it's important to note that Texas will be without two of its top receivers from last season, Xavier Worthy and Adonai Mitchell, who were drafted by the NFL.

Despite Saban's skepticism, Sarkisian undoubtedly has high expectations for his team as they enter the SEC. Ewers' return is a major boost, but the Longhorns will need to fill the void left by Worthy and Mitchell.

Meanwhile, Saban has unexpectedly retired from coaching and embarked on a media career. However, his voice remains influential in the college football landscape, and he continues to offer his unvarnished opinions on the sport he knows best.