5th Title in 8 years? "THE PROCESS": Tested Again Tonight

Nick Saban's focus on "The Process" began after his Michigan State Spartans upset Ohio State in the Horseshoe during the late 1990's.  His message was simple, "Focus on dominating and winning the next play. Once the play is over, erase it, and move on to the next." The process is the backbone of the Crimson Tide football program.  It doesn't focus or even mention the word winning. What are you able to control as a player? Effort, preparation, focus and attention to detail are stressed by Saban on a daily basis. The Process has resulted in unprecedented success on the field, as Saban will aim for his 5th National Title in 8 years this evening in Tampa Bay.  The Process will be tested tonight by a very talented Clemson Tiger football team.

Equally impressive is Saban's ability to prevent the "mass exodus" of underclassmen declaring for the NFL Draft we see at other schools such as LSU and Ohio State. This allows Nick Saban to have veteran leadership and experience when it counts most in big games.  Several Tide players suiting up for their last game tonight, were projected to be drafted in the first three rounds in 2016. Those players decided to follow the path of so many other Alabama great's and come back to try and win one more title. Close to 50% of the underclassmen who declared for the NFL Draft last year, went undrafted. Jonathon Allen, Reuben Foster, etc. would have been drafted very high, but chose to come back. No doubt Nick Saban had an influence on their decision.

Tonight, those players will have one more opportunity to stamp their legacy on the Alabama Dynasty, which shows no sign ending.  The Process will go up against Dabo Swinney and his flamboyant personality. We are in for a treat. See you on ESPN at 8:30 p.m.