ESPN hires Nick Saban as college football analyst

Feb. 7 (UPI) -- ESPN hired former Alabama coach Nick Saban as a college football analyst, the network announced Wednesday.

"ESPN and College GameDay have played such an important role in the growth of college football, and I'm honored to have the opportunity to join their team," Saban said in a news release.

"I'll do my best to offer additional insights and perspectives to contribute to College GameDay, the ultimate Saturday tradition for college football fans."

Saban, who announced Jan. 10 that he would retire from coaching, will contribute to ESPN's NFL Draft coverage and make additional appearances on ESPN platforms.

The 72-year-old ranks No. 15 in college football history with 292 wins. His teams won a record seven national titles, including six with the Crimson Tide. He was at Alabama for 17 years.

"Nick Saban is a singular, iconic presence in college football," ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro said.

"He is also an extremely gifted communicator, who will immediately add even more credibility, authority and entertainment value to ESPN, including our esteemed College GameDay show."

ESPN said it will announce Saban's first assignment later.