Could Nick Saban be adding to his collection of former FBS head coaches? Based on one report, that’s certainly a possibility.
Wednesday, it was reported that former Arizona head coach and ex-Oklahoma defensive coordinator Mike Stoops is expected to take on an off-field role at Alabama as some type of defensive analyst/consultant. The same day, another report emerged in which Major Applewhite is expected to interview for an analyst job with the Crimson Tide at some point this week.
If the move comes to fruition, it would serve as a homecoming of sorts as Applewhite spent the 2007 season, Saban’s first in Tuscaloosa, as the Crimson Tide’s offensive coordinator. He also served that one season as quarterbacks coach.
Applewhite spent the past two full seasons as the head coach at Houston. Shortly after suffering an embarrassing bowl loss to Army, Applewhite was fired.
Provided both moves come to pass, Applewhite and Stoops would join a growing number of former head coaches Saban has brought to Tuscaloosa, from Lane Kiffin to Mike Locksley to Steve Sarkisian to Butch Jones. Locksley (HERE), Sarkisian (HERE) and Jones (HERE) all joined the Crimson Tide as analysts, with the first two subsequently promoted to offensive coordinator with the program (Sarkisian is set for his second stint in that role); Locksley and Kiffin ultimately moved on to head jobs at other programs, the former to Maryland this year and the latter to Florida Atlantic a couple of years ago.
Jones had the opportunity to join Locksley for an on-field role with the Terrapins, but has reportedly decided to remain with the Tide.
Additionally, it was reported earlier this month that former Rutgers head coach Kyle Flood would be taking over as the Tide’s offensive line coach.