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Saban thinks Vanderbilt deserves to be ranked

Matthew Emmons / USA TODAY Sports

Normally a matchup between Alabama and Vanderbilt would lack intrigue, but Saturday's contest is shaping up to be one of the week's most compelling.

Crimson Tide head coach Nick Saban feels the improved Commodores deserved to be ranked in the top 25.

"I most certainly think that the team we're playing this weekend based on what they've done this season and the way they've played, that they should be in the Top 25," Saban said, according to Barrett Sallee of CBS Sports. "I think, if you have a reputation, you benefit from that early on based on how people vote and how people like you."

Vanderbilt is 3-0 after defeating Kansas State last weekend and is playing with confidence. Commodores head coach Derek Mason stated the team is relishing the opportunity to face Alabama, while Vanderbilt defensive lineman Nifae Lealao caused a minor stir with a comment he made following the victory over the Wildcats.

Lealao said "Alabama, you’re next," proving this Vanderbilt squad won't be lacking confidence against Alabama.

Both teams will look to remain undefeated when they square off Saturday and if Vanderbilt was to pull off a shocker, they won't need to be worried about being unranked any longer.

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