re: The Patriots are ruining the NFL

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We all think Belichick could be successful in the College game. We know that Saban wasn't in the NFL. That is the big difference.

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On one hand, there's New England's Bill Belichick, who is in search of his sixth Super Bowl ring as head coach.

On the other, there's Alabama's Nick Saban, who just got finished winning his sixth college football national championship.

While many know their careers intersected, there have been few stories that explain just how integral their relationship over the years has played a part in the success of both men.

This week, Jenny Vrentas wrote an in-depth profile on the origin and specifics of their working relationship for Sports Illustrated's MMQB.

Vrentas joined me on "The Opening Kickoff" on WNSP-FM 105.5 on Friday to discuss the story, and the process - yes, I used that word - in gathering the facts of the piece.

Here are four questions asked of the journalist:

3. What was the biggest surprise you took from the piece?

Vrentas: I was surprised that Belichick said he wouldn't want to see Nick Saban again. I said, "Do you think your paths will ever cross. There is speculation every year that Saban will try again in the NFL." He goes, "I can't sit here and tell you I want him to." It's not that he doesn't want him to succeed, it's he doesn't want to compete against him.

It was a compliment to his friend, but it was a reflection of the respect he has. That stuck out to me. Saban's rooted in Alabama. I don't think he's going anywhere. But if you're an NFL team and you see the best coach in the NFL saying this is a guy I wouldn't want to face, I think that's pretty significant.

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