🏈 Saban’s Scathing Critique
During a rollicking appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, former Alabama coach-turned-ESPN analyst Nick Saban delivered some harsh words for Ohio State Nation. With the Buckeyes firmly locked into the College Football Playoff and preparing to face Oregon in the Rose Bowl on January 1, 2025, Saban said this about Buckeye fans:
> “These Ohio State fans … they’ve got a psychotic obsession with Michigan, and they need to go get therapy or something to try to get it fixed.”
He emphasized that obsession is overshadowing their excitement for a legitimate championship opportunity:
> “They have a chance to win the national championship, and here you are… nobody’s excited about their opportunity… because they lost to Michigan.”
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Why Saban Laid Into the Fans
Saban had more than just snark on tap—he was making a pointed critique of what he viewed as a self-defeating mindset:
Loss to Michigan: Ohio State fell 13–10 to unranked Michigan on November 30, 2024—continuing a 1–4 skid under head coach Ryan Day .
Negative Fan Energy: Despite a strong regular season and CFP berth, fans remain fixated on that loss and clamouring for Day’s firing .
Playoff Run Yet Forgotten: Even after OSU’s dominant 42–17 win over Tennessee in the CFP first round, the Michigan hangover persists .
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Saban’s Bigger Message
1. Perspective Check
Saban argued that Ohio State is among the most talented teams in the CFP, with strengths on both sides of the ball—and could still win it all if they stay focused .
2. Correcting Mistakes
He pointed out that the Michigan loss was full of “correctable mistakes” and that dwelling on it only hampers progress .
3. Mental Reset
His advice to fans (and implicitly the players and coaches): get therapy, stop the obsessive negativity, and embrace the championship opportunity ahead .
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Context: Buckeye Nation’s Emotional Rollercoaster
Historical Weight: The Ohio State–Michigan rivalry, also known as “The Game,” dates back to 1897. As of the latest meeting, Michigan holds a narrow edge at 62–51–6, including a four-game win streak from 2021–24 .
Program Expectations: Despite boasting talent and winning Big Ten titles, OSU’s inability to overcome Michigan—and secure a national title under Ryan Day—has left fans disillusioned .
Fan Fallout: The Michigan road win came with drama—flag planting led to a stadium melee, and Ohio lawmakers even joked about making it a felony .
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The Playoff Picture
The Buckeyes are now three wins away from redemption. But as Saban pointed out, they’ll need to channel their energy into Oregon—not past losses. If they stay mentally sharp and capitalize on their talent, they can still make a title run.
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Final Thoughts
Saban’s fiery critique isn’t just about rivalry—it’s about mental refocus. His blunt advice—“go get therapy”—cuts to the heart of a critical flaw: obsessing over past defeats instead of looking forward to potential glory. Ohio State has the roster and playoff positioning to chase a national title. Saban’s rallying cry? Let go of the Michigan-induced hangover and seize the moment.