In a dominant victory over the Mercer Bears, Alabama Crimson Tide head coach Nick Saban made a statement that has reverberated through the college football world: *”We’re just getting started.”* The remark came after Alabama cruised to a convincing win in their non-conference matchup, improving their record and keeping their championship hopes alive.
While Saban is no stranger to bold claims and high expectations, this particular comment struck a chord. Known for his perfectionist mentality and insistence on focusing on improvement, the head coach’s declaration hinted at an exciting chapter ahead for the Crimson Tide. Despite the lopsided nature of the win, Saban’s message was clear: his team has only scratched the surface of its potential.
The Dominant Win Over Mercer
Alabama’s 52-3 victory over Mercer was expected, but the way in which they executed their game plan left little doubt that this team is gearing up for something big. Quarterback Jalen Milroe was efficient in the pocket, throwing for multiple touchdowns, while the Alabama defense showcased its usual dominance, stifling Mercer’s offense and preventing them from ever gaining a foothold.
Saban’s team was clicking on all cylinders, but as always, the legendary head coach wasn’t ready to rest on his laurels. He made it clear that while the victory was satisfying, it was just another step toward something much bigger.
Saban’s Bold Declaration: “We’re Just Getting Started”
In his post-game press conference, Saban reflected on the game with his usual calm demeanor, but the closing remarks were anything but understated. *“I think we’ve got a lot of room for improvement, and I think our best football is ahead of us,”* Saban said. *“We’ve got a lot of young guys, and we’ve had some injuries, but this team has a lot of potential. We’re just getting started.”*
The statement was a clear message to his players, the Alabama faithful, and anyone doubting the Crimson Tide’s chances this season. Despite a roster that has undergone significant changes—especially at the quarterback position—Saban believes that his team has yet to reach its peak. With tougher opponents on the horizon, including their SEC rivals, Saban is confident that his team’s growth will be evident in the weeks to come.
What Does This Statement Mean for Alabama?
For most coaches, a dominant win over an FCS opponent like Mercer is a chance to take stock of what went well, work on areas for improvement, and perhaps rest some starters. But for Nick Saban, the message is always bigger. Saban has built his legacy by taking nothing for granted. Even in victories like these, he’s never satisfied. His statement that Alabama is “just getting started” reinforces his reputation for relentless work ethic and setting high expectations, even when things appear to be going smoothly.
The comment also underscores Alabama’s ongoing transition. While the Tide have been a dominant force in college football for over a decade, the 2024 season marks a new phase—one that involves new faces and new dynamics. Jalen Milroe, the new starting quarterback, has shown flashes of brilliance but is still adjusting to the leadership role. The team’s defense, while still one of the best in the nation, is also undergoing some changes with younger players stepping up in critical positions.
Saban’s words suggest that the best is yet to come. And with tougher challenges ahead—particularly within the SEC—Saban clearly expects his team to hit their stride as the season progresses.
The Importance of Team Growth
While Alabama’s talent has never been in question, Saban’s focus on team growth is critical. The Crimson Tide has a history of peaking at the right time, especially when it comes to the later stages of the season. With several key players still developing and the coaching staff still fine-tuning the offense, Saban sees the potential for this team to elevate its play as the competition intensifies.
“I think our team has great character,” Saban said. “We’ve got a lot of guys who are working hard every day to improve, and that’s the most important thing. We’re focused on making progress every week. If we do that, we’ll put ourselves in a position to compete for everything we want.”
For Saban, the goal is always the same: not to just win games but to build a championship-caliber team. Every victory, every practice, every drill is designed to prepare Alabama for the challenges that lie ahead, both within the SEC and beyond. This approach has made Alabama one of the most successful programs in the history of college football, and Saban’s insistence on constant improvement is why the Crimson Tide are always a contender.
Setting the Stage for a National Championship Run
Alabama’s next few games will be crucial in determining where this team truly stands. As SEC play heats up, Alabama will face teams like LSU, Tennessee, and, of course, the fierce rivalry game against Auburn. These matchups will provide a better understanding of just how far the Crimson Tide has come since their dominant win over Mercer.
Saban’s bold statement, however, suggests that he’s not just aiming for a conference title—he’s eyeing the College Football Playoff. With players like Milroe, running back Jase McClellan, and a defense led by standout linebacker Dallas Turner, Alabama has the ingredients for a deep playoff run. But the team’s growth and cohesion will be tested every week as they face some of the nation’s best.
What’s Next for Alabama?
Looking ahead, Alabama’s remaining schedule will be a proving ground for the Crimson Tide. After the Mercer win, Saban and his staff will likely zero in on refining the passing game and developing more consistency on offense. Milroe’s play at quarterback will continue to be a key focal point, as he gains more experience and confidence in leading the team.
But as Saban so aptly put it, “We’re just getting started.” That’s the mentality that will guide Alabama through the tougher stretches of the season. Saban has a track record of peaking in November, and if history is any indication, the Crimson Tide will only get better as the season progresses.
The team’s continued development, combined with Saban’s leadership, means that Alabama is primed to make a strong push for a national title. The rest of the country should take notice: under Nick Saban, Alabama is never content with just being good—they are always striving to be great, and the 2024 season could very well be another chapter in their pursuit of college football glory.
Conclusion: A Championship Mentality
Nick Saban’s post-game statement after Alabama’s win over Mercer is a reminder of the mindset that has made him one of the most successful coaches in college football history. For Saban, every victory is an opportunity to build toward something greater, and his insistence that Alabama is “just getting started” suggests that the Crimson Tide are far from their peak.
As the season progresses, expect Alabama to continue to grow, improve, and refine its game. With the leadership of Saban and a roster brimming with talent, the Crimson Tide are well-positioned to make a serious run at another SEC title and, ultimately, the College Football Playoff. As always, for Alabama, the goal is nothing short of perfection—and as Saban has made clear, they’re just warming up.