Nick Saban took some flak last week due to comments made by his former player, Plaxico Burress. Burress took to Twitter last Thursday, claiming that Saban was not truthful with him at Michigan State, improperly predicting Burress’ NFL draft position and leaving to coach for LSU before their bowl game.
Coach Saban didn’t get defensive or over-react in his response, imperative in today’s ever-sensitive and looming media presence in sports. Saban recognized Burress for all his accomplishments and professionally addressed any points that he could.
“Plaxico Burress was a great player for us,” Saban said. “He was a fantastic player. He had a great career. He made the right decision to go out for the draft. He was a first-round draft pick. He had a great career as a pro player. I’m proud of what Plaxico Burress has been able to accomplish.”
Saban didn’t recall the conversation they shared about his draft position, either.
“I’ve never knowingly told a player any information that I get, I get from someone else. And I can’t even remember the conversation. I actually left Michigan State right after the Penn State game. I didn’t stay for the bowl game when I went to LSU and that was Plax’s senior year. We’re proud of what he’s been able to do and we’re happy to see him have as much success as he’s had,” he added.
Although Saban never directly denied what Plaxico claimed, Saban is not willing to stoke the debate and his general, sweeping responses show he is unwilling to escalate the situation.
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*Featured Photo (above) credit to USA TODAY Sports
