Penn State Coach Proposes Nick Saban as Ideal Commissioner for College Football

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (AP) — In a bold statement that has captured the attention of college football fans, Penn State head coach James Franklin has advocated for the establishment of a college football commissioner, proposing none other than legendary former Alabama coach Nick Saban as the perfect candidate.

“I think he’s the obvious choice, right?” Franklin remarked during the Penn State's College Football Playoff quarterfinals media day, leading up to the highly anticipated Fiesta Bowl against No. 3 seed Boise State on Tuesday.

Franklin's comments come in light of a recent challenge faced by the Nittany Lions, particularly after backup quarterback Beau Pribula transferred to Missouri, leaving the team in a difficult position. His departure shines a spotlight on the chaotic landscape of college football today, marked by the new realities of the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) era and the transfer portal, which have dramatically altered the dynamics within college athletics.

During the media session, Franklin expressed his frustration with the absence of a dedicated leader for college football. Currently, decisions that impact the sport are managed by various conference commissioners, often leading to disagreements as conferences prioritize their own interests over a unified vision.

“I think one of the most important things that we can do is to get a commissioner of college football who is waking up every single morning and going to bed every single night making decisions that are in the best interest of college football,” he stated emphatically.

Saban, now 73, retired from coaching at the end of last season, closing a remarkable career that positioned him as one of the most successful coaches in the history of college football, boasting seven national championships—six with Alabama and one with LSU. Since his retirement, Saban has transitioned to an analyst role with ESPN’s “College GameDay,” where fans continue to value his insights on the game.

With Saban’s extensive experience and unparalleled success, Franklin’s proposal raises questions about the future governance of college football and whether there is a need for a unified leadership structure that supports the competitive integrity and interests of all programs across the country. As the landscape of college sports continues to evolve, the conversation surrounding a potential commissioner is likely to gain traction among coaches, players, and fans alike.

Will we see a shift towards a more centralized governance in college football? Or will the chaos of the current system persist? Stay tuned as these developments unfold!