Kalen DeBoer Reveals Nick Saban's Message to Alabama Football Before Western Kentucky Game

Alabama's new head coach, Kalen DeBoer, had a great start on Saturday, leading the Crimson Tide to a big win over Western Kentucky, 63-0. Before the game, DeBoer received an encouraging call from former coach Nick Saban, who retired in January.

On Monday, DeBoer shared what Saban said during the call. “Nick called me on Thursday, which was really cool for the guys,” DeBoer explained. “He wanted me to tell them that he’s thinking about them, wishing them the best, and will be cheering for them. You can tell how much he cares about the program and the players. It was important for them to hear that.”

Saban attended the season opener, watching the game from a luxury box at Bryant-Denny Stadium with his family. He arrived in Tuscaloosa on Saturday after appearing on ESPN’s College Gameday show, which was broadcasting from Texas A&M for their game against Notre Dame.

The legendary coach, who won six national championships with Alabama, will be back at the stadium on Saturday when Alabama faces South Florida. The field at Bryant-Denny Stadium will be renamed "Saban Field" in his honor before the game.

“It’s going to be an incredible night,” DeBoer said about the upcoming dedication. “Having the field named after coach Saban is truly special. We may not be able to fully participate in the ceremony since we'll be preparing for the game, but we know how much it means to him, and we deeply respect that. We'll continue to protect our field just like it’s been done during his 17 years here.”

Alabama's game against South Florida is scheduled to kick off at 6 p.m. on Saturday and will be aired on ESPN.