Alabama designates Bryant-Denny Stadium field in honor of Nick Saban

The University of Alabama trustees have decided to honor former football coach Nick Saban by naming the field at Bryant-Denny Stadium “Saban Field.” Saban, who retired after achieving six national championships in 17 seasons, expressed gratitude for the special honor during a trustees meeting held via Zoom, alongside his wife, Terry. This decision, according to Saban, acknowledges the hard work and values that he and many others have instilled in the community, university, and football program.

The field-naming ceremony is set to take place during the South Florida game on Sept. 7, following unanimous approval of the resolution by the honorary degrees and recognition committee. Saban’s remarkable coaching record includes 206 wins on the field, nine SEC titles, and setting the record for holding the No. 1 ranking in the AP poll for 15 consecutive seasons, surpassing the previous record of seven held by Miami.

Bryant-Denny Stadium, originally named after longtime president George Denny and legendary football coach Paul “Bear” Bryant, will now carry the additional honor of Saban’s name. The resolution by the trustees commended Saban for his role in the university’s remarkable growth, noting that enrollment increased significantly during his tenure from 25,580 in 2007 to 39,623 in the most recent academic year.

Nick Saban, who already has a statue outside the stadium, is credited by Board President Pro Tem Scott Phelps as one of the most significant contributors to the program’s history. The decision to name the field after Saban reflects the immeasurable impact he has had on both the university and the football program.