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WATCH: Nick Saban rips Alabama students for poor turnout

Dustin Schutte

By Dustin Schutte

Published:

Another press conference, another Nick Saban outburst. But this time, the Alabama head coach was directing his frustration and disappointment at the students.

Last Saturday, the Crimson Tide hosted Louisiana in a non-conference game. As a seven-touchdown favorite headed into the game, there wasn’t a lot of interest from the Alabama student population. That resulted in a half-empty student section at Bryant-Denney Stadium.

Saban wasn’t pleased.

During a press conference earlier this week, Saban addressed the issue, saying he was disappointed by the low turnout. He said it was something he’s never seen since arriving in Tuscaloosa.

“I can honestly say I was a little disappointed that there weren’t more students at the last game,” Saban said. “I think we’re trying to address that. I don’t think they’re entitled to anything either. And for me, personally, I think it should be first come, first serve. And if they don’t want to come to the games they don’t have to come but I’m sure there’s enough people around here that would like to go to the games.

“We’ve got great fans. I appreciate that. But to see half the student section not full, I’ve never seen that since I’ve been here before.”

The Crimson Tide defeated Louisiana 56-14 but held a 49-0 lead at half.

While Saban might be frustrated, you can certainly understand why some students aren’t really interested in a non-SEC matchup. Alabama has defeated every team on its schedule this season by at least three touchdowns. Louisiana didn’t have a chance.

Below is the full video of Saban’s rant about the student section.

Dustin Schutte

Dustin grew up in the heart of Big Ten country and has been in sports media since 2010. He has been covering Big Ten football since 2014. You can follow him on Twitter: @SchutteCFB