Saban lands the top recruiting class?

Okay, I am in absolutely no way saying Bama will win a NC. But wouldn't USC be living proof that recruiting is important as they have been THE team as of late and can add a NC recently while coincidentally the success started at the exact same time they started recruiting well?

It's pretty well documented that top recruiting classes over time bring success to some degree.

 

Oh I agree that saban > shula in every aspect of football. I'm just pointing out that Shula was no slouch at recruiting. I'm a bama fan 2nd to LSU. (God forbid.. :wave

Shula brought in the talent.. he just didn't "fit" is the only way I can describe it.

 

Damn, and I thought all communication with God, er I mean Saban, was through prayer. Now we can all skip prayer and just go to bed at night and think --- He is listening. Must be all those Little Debbie cream cookies he eats.
:rofl:
You guys had a good haul today, congrats.

 

Sure, but USC has racked up most of their accolades playing in an ARGUABLY weaker conference with an ARGUABLY weaker schedule. In addition, I'm sure they're thrilled to have the one BCSNC trophy and undefeated season that they do have, but some die hards will tell you they should have more.

I put most Bama fans into the hardcore category, so it stands to reason that nothing less than a BCSNC will satisfy them. All I'm saying is that, while have a good recruiting class is definitely a step in the right direction, it doesn't guarantee a championship and I hardly doubt that Bama, in the SEC will match what USC is and has been doing in the Pac-10. That's all

 

Alright - Best I could do under time constraints, but here's the raw data to backup (or in this case, REFUTE) the assertion that the SEC is stronger now than it has ever been (made earlier in the thread - seemed right, but wanted to check).

I decided to use AP Poll Top 20 data from 1958 to the present (because I don't have unlimited time and I just love the year 1958, don't you?). Top 20 because the AP didn't do Top 25 before the early 80s. Used the UPI during the 10 years or so that the AP only put out a Top 10. Included both teams tied for 20th when applicable. Only included teams in the conference at the time of the poll (dropped Tulane and GT when applicable, added SC and Arky in '91) I used this site to find the poll data.

http://www.collegefootballpoll.com/polls_1936_present_h.html

And this site to find SEC history.

http://www.secfootball.itgo.com/history.html

Here's the percentage of SEC teams that ended the season in the Top 20 for each "decade" between 1958 and today.

% of SEC Teams in Top 20 - Last 50 years
1998 - 2007: 36%
1988 - 1997: 32%
1978 - 1987: 31%
1968 - 1977: 40%
1958 - 1967: 38%

So, right away, you can see that the SEC was "deepest" and most competitive nationally between 1958 and 1977 (very roughly). Big drop off from 1978 to 1997 (very roughly). And we are in a resurgence.

Lots more analysis to do just with this simple data. I'll post the spreadsheet when I get a chance.

 

You guys will have to learn to hide those cash payments Alabama was making before probation.:wink::milesmic:

 

A program that starts to win more will bring in better recruits.

But alas, a program that can offer 31 scholarships had better be in the top 5.

While I think Saban did pretty good, I'd actually have to say that he got the 3rd best recruiting group in the SEC. Florida and Georgia did much better in terms of players fitting their specific program needs. LSU is about even with Alabama.

I have a feeling that Saban will take the attrition approach with his group. Line 'em up and see who is left standing.

 

Terry, lighten up my friend. You're as predictable on this board as I am. This is an LSU College Football discussion board. Hello!!! :lol::lol::lol::lol::lol:

 

Chip, you are one of my favorite posters, but we seem to disagree on every single recruiting point. :wink:

I would love an explanation behind this theory. Plus, is it due to the fact they did well while not taking over Atlanta like i said they would. :lol: Its not that one was better than the other but I would say all three filled their needs and and to rank them is...impossible?

Some day people will understand that if Saban were coach for Iowa St. they would have top 10 classes.

 

Before Bear, Bama was 0-10. Appears they have returned to the way I remember.