There are many great candidates with connections to Alabama Football who could serve as the guest picker on College Gameday next week, but the clear frontrunner is Miss Terry Saban.
Although it’s not yet officially confirmed, it’s almost certain that College Gameday will head to Tuscaloosa next week for Alabama Football’s much-anticipated matchup against Georgia. With that, the Gameday crew will be on the hunt for a guest picker, and there’s no better choice than Miss Terry Saban.
Over the years, College Gameday has visited Tuscaloosa so frequently that they’ve run through many of the prime guest picker options, leaving Alabama fans frustrated. As a result, we’ve often seen random celebrities with no connection to the university filling the role on several occasions.
Comedian and Tennessee native Nate Bargatze served as the guest picker when College Gameday last visited Tuscaloosa for Alabama’s game against LSU last season.
This time, with the game taking place on the newly renamed “Saban Field” at Bryant-Denny Stadium, it’s only fitting to feature the person who is the true reason it’s called “Saban Field” and not “Nick Saban Field.”
Miss Terry Saban has never received the full recognition she deserves for the vital role she played in building the dynasty in Tuscaloosa during Nick Saban’s 17-year tenure as head coach of the Crimson Tide. Most are familiar with the story, but for those who aren’t, if it weren’t for her, the Sabans might never have come to Tuscaloosa. She was the one who met with Alabama Athletic Director Mal Moore while Nick Saban was still coaching the Miami Dolphins, ultimately influencing the decision that shaped the future of Alabama Football.
Miss Terry Saban has been the driving force behind the Nick’s Kids Foundation, spearheading numerous charitable initiatives in Tuscaloosa and making a lasting impact on the community. Beyond her philanthropic efforts, she has been Nick Saban’s “secret weapon” in recruiting, often bringing a warmth and charisma that complements her husband’s more reserved demeanor. Her outgoing personality has helped draw out a more personable side of Nick Saban, creating a dynamic duo that’s been crucial to the program’s success.
Her influence extends deeply into the Alabama Football family, and it was especially evident last season in the close bond she formed with former Crimson Tide cornerback Terrion Arnold. Players often speak of her with admiration, recognizing the profound role she has played in their lives and the program.
Alabama fans are well aware of her contributions, and there has been growing support to honor Miss Terry in a meaningful way, with some even calling for a statue or other tribute to commemorate all she has done for the city, the university, and the football dynasty built during her time in Tuscaloosa.
There are a few other potential guest pickers Alabama fans would be happy to see, as long as they have some connection to the university. The bar is low, really. Julio Jones, for instance, would be a solid choice. He’s an Alabama legend, and having played for the Falcons, he’s someone Georgia fans also admire. Another option is Nate Oats, Alabama’s basketball coach. With a huge recruiting weekend ahead for Tide basketball, Oats would likely welcome the national exposure.
However, these figures have already had their moments in the spotlight. Miss Terry Saban, on the other hand, has largely worked behind the scenes and is only now getting the recognition she deserves. Bringing her on as the guest picker for College Gameday would be a meaningful way to start fully acknowledging her contributions.
Alabama fans would be thrilled to see her on set, and sitting next to Nick Saban, viewers would get a glimpse of the charm and personality that have made her so impactful in Tuscaloosa. She has always brought out the best in Nick, showcasing his humor and more relaxed side—something the entire college football world would love to see.
