It is not easy being Steve Sarkisian. Not because of his past, personal struggles he still works to overcome, but simply because he is the Alabama football, Offensive Coordinator.
Coordinators under Nick Saban have tough challenges, particularly the offensive coordinators. Critics claim Saban demands too much from his assistant coaches. If that is true to any degree, it is even harder for the offensive coaches.
The Crimson Tide defensive and offensive coordinators do not free-lance with new ideas. Everything they do must be inside the parameters established by Nick Saban. It is somewhat easier for the defensive guys because Nick Saban has a detailed defensive system of play.