Fans honor Saban with oatmeal cream pies, 'Amazing Grace' sing-along
Nick Saban shocked the college football world Wednesday by announcing his retirement, and Alabama fans found some interesting ways to pay their respects to the longtime Crimson Tide head coach.
Following the bench boss' announcement, fans began leaving various objects at his statue outside of Bryant-Denny Stadium. The items included boxes of Little Debbie Oatmeal Creme Pies - Saban's breakfast of choice - as well as bottles of Coca-Cola, a slice of pizza, and a sign reading "GOAT."
he’s still alive, guys. pic.twitter.com/gjDknNBilx
— Mike Wilson (@ByMikeWilson) January 11, 2024
Nick Saban’s statue the morning after he announced his retirement.@AlabamaFTBL | #RollTide pic.twitter.com/DB9EwPFgEy
— The Next Round (@NextRoundLive) January 11, 2024
Fans also gathered to sing "Amazing Grace" at the statue Wednesday night.
They’ve moved on to “Amazing Grace” pic.twitter.com/ENGBqhDLo9
— Max Cohan (@MaxCohan) January 11, 2024
"It kind of feels like he died," one student told a friend while circling the statue, according to Ben Flanagan of AL.com. "Just because of the flowers. I've been an Alabama fan since the day I was born. It's (sad) but, it'll be OK."
Saban, 72, coached at Alabama for 17 seasons, leading the Crimson Tide to six national championships and a 206-29 record.