re: How far does Bama fall when Saban leaves?

It really depends on who replaces him. I would guess that Dabo would get the first call and with Him I don't think there would be much of a drop off. i have it solid source that says Dabo doesn't want the job because he doesn't want to follow Saban.

Kiffin is also a possible replacement that I think has possible learned a lot under Saban but still gmhas some growing to do in his personal life. Kiffin could be a lightening rod as the head coach.

Other than those two I am not sure who would be on the radar.

Historically it is very difficult to follow someone like Saban no matter how good you are as a coach so drop off in production is what one would expect no matter who comes in in my opinion!

I don't think the drop off will be as bad as when Bryant left because I think Saban is in such better health that he may actually hang arm round the program as a resource for a few years once he hangs it up. Bryant retired and died six weeks later and that created a huge power struggle at Alabama. I think Saban will have a hand in his replacement and that may make a difference.