Saban Will Coach on the Sidelines Tonight
Nick Saban tested positive for COVID-19 earlier this week and therefore had to quarantine himself at home per health and safety protocols. Saban underwent additional, SEC approved, PCR testing and received three negative tests in three consecutive days. Therefore the six-time national championship winning coach will be on the sidelines tonight as No. 2 Alabama takes on No. 3 Georgia in Bryant-Denny Stadium.
Saban actually underwent and additional two PCR tests, bringing his total tests up to five after the initial positive test. All five tests returned a negative distinction for COVID-19, deeming the original test a false positive. Saban remained asymptomatic and fever free throughout the week.
Saban has been preparing for this week's game at home by watching practice and conducting meetings virtually through Zoom. Saban is now medically cleared to safely return to activity effective immediately.
He will coach against his former assistant coach Kirby Smart tonight and put his undefeated record against former assistants on the line. He is 21-0 when taking on his former assistants.
Passing the three PCR tests was the only way Saban would be allowed to coach due to NCAA rules. NCAA rules prohibited him from coaching from his home virtually, and COVID-19 health and safety protocols prevented him from coaching in an isolated location in the stadium. Had Saban not been available, offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian would have taken over as interim head coach.
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