re: If Saban Were To Retire or Leave Within 2 Years...

I think the reasoning behind the Smart promotion is that Saban has a vast process currently in place that affects not only the players, but the whole whole programs infastructure. Some may want to see if Smart can keep/maintain that infastructure. He is a great recruiter. So in 3 years or so if it is apparent that he can't keep it going, then we go out and hire a proven coach (who doesn't have to be the guy replacing Saban, which is some big shoes to fill), and they would still be coming into a fully stacked roster.