Report: Saban's famous 'ass-chewing' of Kiffin was over 'dumb' comment
Nick Saban and Lane Kiffin experienced a great deal of success during the offensive coordinator's three-year run with Alabama, but perhaps the most memorable image was an epic sideline tirade by the legendary coach.
The shouting match happened in the final seconds of a 38-10 win over Western Kentucky last season, after an Alabama fumble led to a late Hilltoppers' touchdown. Saban described the encounter eloquently after the contest.
Saban on his interaction with Kiffin during the game: "There were no arguments. Those are called ass-chewings."
— Cecil Hurt (@CecilHurt) September 10, 2016
In a new book written by Senior Bowl executive director, and close friend of Saban, Phil Savage, the reason for the tirade is revealed.
According to an advance copy of the book obtained by Creg Stephenson of AL.com, Kiffin explained the fumble over the headset as "dumb players make dumb plays," a message all Crimson Tide coaches heard. Saban immediately snapped back with "no, dumb offensive coordinators call dumb plays."
Kiffin has since moved on to the head coaching position at Florida Atlantic, so there will be no "ass-chewings" to keep the crowd entertained this year.