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WATCH: Nick Saban goes gaga over surprise guest during press conference

photos -jpgby: Ashton Pollard10/21/21ashtonpollard7
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Doug Murray/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Alabama head coach Nick Saban had a surprise guest via Zoom at his press conference on Wednesday. 

Because his wife was not yet home, The Athletic’s Aaron Suttles had to hop on a call with his son. After Suttles asked a question about linebacker Henry To’o To’o’s progression since transferring from Tennessee, Saban responded with an inquiry of his own.

“Well I have a question for you, first of all. Do I finally get to meet the boss?” Saban asked, referring to the baby in Suttles’ arms. 

After an apology from Suttles, Saban followed up with a light-hearted dig at the reporter.

“This is the best behavior I’ve seen you on since I’ve been here… No, you don’t have to apologize,” Saban said as laughter broke out in the room. “If this is the way it’s gonna be, I’d like for him to be there all the time.”

Interactions like the one above between Nick Saban and reporters are rare, which is why the moment should be cherished by Alabama fans and college football fans around the country. 

Most of the time he’s stern, serious and often sends his team messages about how he wants his team to play or handle certain things to make them better as players.

Saban preparing for an electric Tennessee offense

While he was very jovial in Wednesday’s press conference, rest assured Saban will be all-business when the Volunteers come to Tuscaloosa this weekend. 

“I think that they go fast, so people have to get lined up and be ready to play,” Saban said of what troubles him when facing Tennessee’s offense. “I think they’ve got a really good runner. And I think their quarterback’s ability to run contributes to that.”

Saban was referencing Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker, who is questionable for Saturday’s game. He currently has the second-highest passer rating in the SEC behind Bryce Young.

As Saban mentioned, Hooker has the ability to make plays with his legs as well. Hooker posted double-digit rushing attempts and a rushing touchdown in each of Tennessee’s last three games. On Saturday against Ole Miss, he had a season high 23 carries for 108 yards.

Saban’s focus will be on making sure the Crimson Tide enter the game with discipline at their assignments, and they are prepared to be in a hurry while the Volunteers have the football.

On3’s Wade Peery and Austin Brezina contributed to this report.