Alabama’s Saban signs 3-year contract extension

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — University of Alabama head football coach has signed a three-year extension to his original contract, university athletic director Mal Moore announced Saturday.

When Saban came to Alabama in 2007, he signed an eight-year contract. This extension would keep him at the helm of the Crimson Tide football program through the 2017 season.

“Coach Saban has impressively led the Alabama football program back to national prominence in a short period of time,” Moore said.

“That success has been evident in all facets — on-field results, his embrace of Alabama’s athletics and academic culture, recruiting, and community service,” Moore added. “In every way, Coach Saban has positioned our program among college football’s elite.”

The contract extension is subject to approval by the compensation committee of the board of trustees of the University of Alabama System. The committee is expected to meet soon to discuss the extension.

Saban is about to begin his third season with the Tide with a season-opener in Atlanta against Virginia Tech on Sept. 5.

“Terry and I are pleased and happy that the University of Alabama has offered us an extension to our original contract,” Saban said, referring to his wife. “Our acceptance of the extension expresses our commitment to the University of Alabama for the rest of our coaching career.”

Saban credited Moore, university president Robert Witt, the university community and fans for their strong support and commitment to rebuilding the school’s football program.

In two seasons, Saban has led the Tide to 19-8 record, including a 12-2 record last season that snagged a Southeastern Conference Western Division title, a trip to the Allstate Sugar Bowl and a final ranking of 6th in both the Associated Press media poll and the USA Today/ESPN coaches’ rankings.