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I was told of a conversation about a year in which Bryant Jr, speaking to a few people, said that the plan being discussed was for Saban to move into the AD job and for Smart to become the head coach...possibly with a year of transition where Saban wears both hats.

I obviously don't know what Saban would or would not do, but I've always had the impression that he would not enjoy that job. I could be wrong obviously, he just doesn't strike me as person that would want to do the things an AD has to do. I would love it if I was wrong. The man is going to be the best at whatever he does. If he did become AD, he would be the best AD. If he was janitor, he would be the best janitor.

I just think he is a coach. He's one of those people that is so wrapped up in their occupation that the job becomes intertwined with their personality to such a degree that this is all they can do. Obviously, there is a degree to which a coach's job is similar to an AD's job. Planning, organizing, recruiting are all things both an AD and a coach have in common. But there is no film watching in the AD office, nor any game planning. From my very distant point of view and perspective , these are the differences that I just don't see him wanting to give up. I hope I'm wrong, honestly. As an AD he could probably get all our programs competing on a national level. And while some may laugh at such a comment, I believe it.

He's just that rare type of individual who can effect others around him in a positive and productive way. Hell, I've even seen and heard of average Joe Schmoe on the street change something about his or her life simply because of something Saban has said in a press conference or heard him speak in person. It's kind of amazing really. He's sort of a weird Mother Theresa that can help people improve their life and yet also cuss and scream when something doesn't go according to his plan as he designed it.