where did nick saban play college football

Nick Saban played college football at Kent State University.

As a defensive back , he suited up for the Golden Flashes in the Mid- American Conference during the early 1970s, standing at just 5-foot-6 —a height that made him an underdog story even then. His time on the field there laid the groundwork for his legendary coaching career, which later saw him dominate at places like LSU and Alabama, winning seven national championships.

Early Days at Kent State

Nick Saban walked on at Kent State after high school stardom at Fairmont West in West Virginia. He played from 1970 to 1972 , contributing on defense while earning a bachelor's in business in 1973. Stories from that era highlight his grit—small in stature but big on hustle, much like the intense recruiter and tactician he became.

From Player to Coach Legend

Saban's playing days ended modestly, but Kent State sparked his football obsession. By 1975 , he was a graduate assistant there, transitioning to coaching roles at places like Michigan State and Ohio State. Fast-forward to his Hall of Fame induction announced in January 2025 , and Kent State's program takes pride in launching the man who built dynasties.

Fun Fact: Size Didn't Stop Him

"At 5-foot-6, you wouldn't think of Nick Saban as a college football player. But Saban did spend his college days playing for Kent State."

TL;DR: Kent State Golden Flashes (1970-1972) as a DB.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.