LIVE REPORT: Saban and Franklin Trade Jokes Over ‘Commissioner of College Football’ Talk
As Penn State basked in the glow of its 31-14 Fiesta Bowl victory over Boise State, head coach James Franklin reignited a playful yet thought-provoking discussion: What if Nick Saban became the commissioner of college football?
The comments, made during Franklin’s media availability before the College Football Playoff (CFP) quarterfinal, caught the attention of Saban, now serving as an analyst on ESPN’s College GameDay.
Franklin’s Vision for Saban as Commissioner
Franklin, who has been vocal about the need for stronger leadership in college football, doubled down on his belief that Saban’s expertise and influence could bring much-needed direction to a sport he describes as “nobody is running” right now.
“Having someone like Saban overseeing college football would be just the perfect thing. It’s the needed thing,” Franklin said during his pregame media session.
Saban Fires Back—With Humor
After Franklin’s Penn State squad secured a dominant win over Boise State to advance to the CFP semifinals, the head coach joined the College GameDay crew Wednesday morning to discuss the victory.
Saban, never one to miss a chance for some lighthearted banter, took the opportunity to address Franklin’s remarks with a witty counter.
“You know, James, congratulations on a great win. I just wanted to ask, does this put you one step closer to being the commissioner of college football?” Saban joked, prompting laughter from Franklin and the rest of the GameDay panel.
Franklin Stands by His Statement
While the exchange brought some levity, Franklin reiterated his serious belief in Saban’s potential as a guiding force for the sport.
“Saban’s impact on college football is global,” Franklin explained. “The ship that is college football needs some direction, and there’s nobody better suited for it than him.”
What’s Next for Penn State and Franklin?
With their Fiesta Bowl triumph, Penn State advances to the CFP semifinals, set for January 9 at the Orange Bowl. Franklin and the Nittany Lions will face the winner of Wednesday night’s Georgia vs. Notre Dame Sugar Bowl clash, a game with massive implications for the national championship race.
For now, the playful commissioner talk serves as a reminder of Saban’s enduring influence on the sport—even in retirement from coaching. Whether he takes up the hypothetical role or not, it’s clear that college football’s biggest names believe he still has a vital part to play in its future.
