Since Alabama football coach Nick Saban arrived in Tuscaloosa, the Crimson Tide have mastered the neutral site opening game. Past opponents were Clemson, Virginia Tech, West Virginia, Michigan, Wisconsin, USC, Florida State and this season’s first opponent Louisville. Atlanta, Arlington or Orlando have been the sites for these games increasing the Tide’s exposure in those states.
Having this type of matchup on a national platform gives Saban a profound recruiting advantage. Recruits realize that Saban is not above playing elite competition. Remember iron sharpens iron. This type of unique scheduling provides the Tide with an undeniable prime time slot.