UPDATE: LSU’s interim athletics director, Verge Ausberry, has definitively shut down any rumors regarding a potential reunion with former head coach Nick Saban. Speaking on 104.5 ESPN on Tuesday, Ausberry stated, “No way he’s coming back to football. Miss Terry’s not going to let him.”
This announcement comes amidst swirling speculation fueled by Saban’s past success at LSU, where he won a national championship in 2003. Despite Saban’s light-hearted comments in various media appearances about his future, Ausberry emphasized that the conversation about Saban returning to LSU is over. “If he was interested, I would drive over there and pick him up right now,” he added, making it clear that both he and Saban are good friends, but a coaching return is not on the horizon.
Saban has repeatedly dismissed the notion of returning to coaching, even while engaging with the idea in jest. “I’m having so much fun working with you. Why would I go do that?” he remarked, further solidifying his stance against returning to the sidelines.
Despite these reassurances, the college football world remains abuzz with talk about LSU’s coaching vacancy and Saban’s name continuing to resurface. Shaquille O’Neal, an LSU alum, mentioned he had “heard through the grapevine” about conversations regarding Saban taking the helm again, igniting further speculation.
As LSU prepares to face No. 4 Alabama this Saturday at Bryant-Denny Stadium, fans are eager to see how the game unfolds against a backdrop of coaching rumors. It is crucial for LSU to solidify its future leadership as they navigate through a challenging season.
As the situation develops, it is evident that LSU’s focus remains on the present, with Ausberry’s comments serving as a clear signal that Saban’s return is highly unlikely. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how LSU approaches its coaching needs moving forward.
For now, Saban’s legacy at LSU remains intact, but the conversation about his coaching future has officially been put to rest. Stay tuned for further updates on LSU’s athletic direction and coaching developments.
