re: Is Bama better prepared for a Post-Saban era than it was for Post Bear?

The only time I've ever really seen a smooth transition was Howard Schnellenberger to Jimmy Johnson at Miami.

Had Johnson stayed at Miami, there's no telling how many national championships he would've won. Saban has actually surpassed Johnson as a college coach, and that's no small feat. In fact, Saban is the best coach since JJ.

I just don't see that train stopping until Saban has a heart attack or something. Alabama will probably move into having the greatest dynasty in college football history. Greater than OU in the 70's and 80's. Miami in the 80's and 90's. Notre Dame. You name it.

Saban is marching towards being the greatest coach in history. I personally think he's got OCD and is batshit crazy, but that only feeds into his perfectionist mindset and will to win.

It will not be easy to replace Saban. No way, no how. You might get a Miles scenario at LSU or a Erickson scenario at Miami. But they'll be a pale reflection of just how good Saban is. And they won't be able to sustain the success.