Tom Izzo shared high praise for Nick Saban after learning of the coach’s retirement on Wednesday. The two legendary coaches have maintained a friendship since both worked in East Lansing from 1995-99.

“I think he’s the greatest coach in the history of football. There are a lot of great coaches, but what he’s done and the consistency that he did it — in an era where so many people and things are coming at you — is remarkable,” Izzo said.

As Izzo mentioned, Saban is undoubtedly one of the greatest ever. Saban won six national championships while at Alabama and compiled a .877 winning percentage. Overall, the coach racked up a 297-71-1 record with seven national championships over a 28-year college coaching career.

Izzo is one of the greatest in his own right. The coach has been in charge at Michigan State for 29 seasons and has compiled a 696-286 record. Izzo guided the Spartans to a National Championship in 2000.