Nick Saban has likely already done enough to cement himself as a legend in the lore of Alabama football. Another championship title would move Saban into a tie with legendary coach Bear Bryant as the most in Alabama history, and the most in college football history.
Saban, who felt like something of a hired gun when he first arrived in Alabama from the NFL, is now one of the Tide’s most beloved figures.
So what’s missing?
A houndstooth hat, that’s what.
Ahead of the National Championship rematch between the Alabama Crimson Tide and the Clemson Tigers, ESPN did a spotlight on one of football’s most iconic coaches most recognizable symbol: the houndstooth hat he famously wore on the sidelines.
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Tradition and pageantry are one of the best parts of college football. It’s the oddities, the “inside jokes” all the programs share with their fans that separate it from the professional ranks and their for-hire mercenaries.
Alabama has a clothing pattern. Clemson touches a piece of rock. Auburn has dead trees.
Alabama and Clemson play on Jan. 9 at 8 p.m. ET on ESPN to determine the national champ.
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Alabama football: The history of the houndstooth pattern (Video)
