re: Did Saban orchestrate the downfall of his biggest threats?

Petrino doesn't play defense. Y'all would have sucked arse in 2012 with that roster regardless of who was the HC. Petrino saw it coming and made the career decision that instead of getting fired based on shitty on field performance that he would have some fun with a young blonde assistant and a motorcycle and go out on his terms while still maintaining his reputation of being able to coach... it was a smart move IMO