“It’s not gonna be for you” - $80M worth Nick Saban once lashed out at reporters following loss to Ole Miss in 2015

Nick Saban, who retired in January 2024 after losing to Michigan, had a memorable moment in September 2015. Following a 43-37 loss to Ole Miss, the media heavily criticized Alabama. In a press conference after the game, a reporter asked Saban how he handles the pressure and media scrutiny, especially with new players in the spotlight.

Saban, who is worth $80 million (per Celebrity Net Worth) lashed out at reporters, who were trying to bury Alabama. He delivered a verbal class to the media:

“I say the same thing as when you all [media] buried us last week, all right, and all that, that it really doesn't matter what you [reporters] think, all right, it really doesn't matter what you say,” Saban said. “I'm hoping that nobody on our team is playing for you, I hope they're playing for each other and their team and what they want to accomplish, and not what you [reporter] think, right."

Saban emphasized to the media that the opinions and comments of others don't matter. His message was clear:

“Because that's not certainly what I'm doing, I'm coaching and working for our players and our team to be as good as it can be, and if that's not pleasing to somebody else, it's not pleasing to somebody else…,” Saban said. “I hope the players respond the right way. And it's not going to be for you, the fans, yes, because if it was up to you, we're six foot under already, we're dead and buried and gone... gone,” Saban said.

As Saban was about to take another question, the former Bama coach already half-fired up and said:

"Make it a good one because I'm about half-fired up here."

However, another reporter carefully started with:

"I know you don't like to do comparisons."

Seven-time national champion Saban quickly interjected:

"No, I don't. So don't ask me a comparison question."

However, Alabama's defeat to Ole Miss was a stumbling block, but the Crimson Tide quickly regained their footing.

The loss to Ole Miss interrupted Nick Saban’s Alabama start, Crimson Tide's recovery was swift

Alabama Crimson Tide head coach Nick Saban (middle) (Image credit; IMAGN)

Alabama kicked off the 2015 season with a victory over 20th-ranked Wisconsin. After starting 2–0, they faced a setback, losing to Ole Miss 43–37.

However, the Crimson Tide bounced back, winning the next twelve games. This winning streak included a 38–0 triumph over Michigan State in the Cotton Bowl Playoff Semifinal and a thrilling 45–40 victory against undefeated Clemson in the 2016 College Football Playoff National Championship. This win secured Alabama's 16th National Championship and coach Nick Saban's fourth at Alabama.