Now that is an interesting question TG. I’d never thought of it, but, let’s. When Saban took over Michigan State in the mid-90s, the team’s record didn’t change from .500 ish for his first four years, then, they finished 9-2 in 1999 and Saban bolted for LSU. Obviously, his college success this decade has been more than impressive, and his professional sojourn rates an incomplete.

I think there are a few things that Saban would have done better had he been hired here.

First, he coaches the defense, and the bedrock of every one of his teams is solid, fundamental-based defense with press coverage from the defensive backs. Obviously, that passage from Smart Football shows his depth of knowledge which stems all the way back from his days as a DB at Kent State. I do think our defense would be quantum leaps better than what it is now.

Second, Saban could pick and choose assistants rather than begging friends like Brewster has had to do. Remember – Tim Davis was, I believe, a Director of Player Personnel, which I believe is some sort of scouting or coordinating position. That shows the depth of talent he had on his staff at Bama.

Third, Saban would have shown up as an actual head coach with about 15 years of coaching experience. That cannot be overstated – 2007 would have never happened.

Fourth, Saban has established recruiting expertise in the South and recognized ability to develop players into NFL-caliber standouts. Brewster is still developing this. Saban would be able to attract better athletes to Minnesota than Brewster does now based on Saban alone, let alone the facilities and academics that Brewster relies on due to his lack of coaching experience and accomplishment. Plus, that BCS title wouldn’t hurt Saban in recruiting.

Fifth, and finally, Minnesota would not be perceived as a second-tier Big Ten team. Saban would have brought national prominence to the program and eyes would be trained on Saban as the third-year coach in a new stadium. Brewster’s poor record, his bluster, and his inability to get noticed nationally have hindered Minnesota’s renaissance. Saban would have eliminated those issues.

Ultimately, I don’t think Saban would have won a national title here, but I do think the Rose Bowl would have been a possibility within 5 years.