Report: Saban most powerful college coach

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NEW YORK, Aug. 22 (UPI) -- Alabama football coach Nick Saban is the most powerful U.S. coach in sports, Forbes magazine reported.

Saban, 56, featured in the magazine's latest edition this week, has been called a savior of the once powerful Southeast Conference program and is determined to restore Alabama to national prominence.

He took the Alabama job after his predecessor, Mike Shula, was fired.

Saban was head coach at Miami (Fla.) and previously had denied interest in the Crimson Tide vacancy.

On Jan. 1, 2007, Alabama athletic director Mal Moore flew on a private plane from Tuscaloosa to Miami and during his trip, Saban, with his agent, James E. Sexton II, negotiated an eight-year, $32 million contract.

Saban was given total control of the Alabama program.

"I've had my share of issues since I left Miami," Saban said. "I feel responsible for being able to manage the public relations better (and) you'd like to have one message with multiple voices. It sure is easier to control with only one voice."