Former Alabama Star Damien Harris Recalls the Time Nick Saban ‘Scared the Hell Out’ of Him
Damien Harris, a former Alabama Crimson Tide star and current NFL running back, recently shared a memorable story about his time playing under Nick Saban that highlights the legendary coach’s fiery personality and unrelenting drive for perfection. For anyone familiar with Saban’s tenure at Alabama, stories of his intensity and high expectations are nothing new, but Harris’s account serves as a vivid reminder of why Saban is one of the most successful coaches in college football history.
In a recent interview, Harris reflected on the time Saban “scared the hell out” of him during a practice. While the specific details of the incident may have been a blur in the heat of the moment, Harris recalls it as a defining experience that underscored Saban’s passion for the game and his dedication to holding players accountable.
Harris described the moment as a turning point in his Alabama career. During a routine practice, Harris made what he thought was a minor mistake—a missed assignment or a misstep in execution. To him, it seemed like something that could easily be corrected. But to Nick Saban, every detail mattered.
“He came storming over to me, and the way he looked at me, I thought the world was ending,” Harris said with a laugh. “He was yelling, pointing, and making it crystal clear that the standard was the standard, and there was no room for anything less than perfect.”
The young running back was stunned by the intensity of Saban’s reaction. “I remember thinking, ‘This man is serious. This isn’t just football to him; it’s life,’” Harris recalled. “It scared the hell out of me, but at the same time, it lit a fire in me to never let something like that happen again.”
Nick Saban’s reaction was rooted in his well-known philosophy of “The Process,” which emphasizes attention to detail, discipline, and continuous improvement. For Saban, every practice, drill, and rep is an opportunity to strive for excellence. He believes that success on the field is a direct result of the habits players develop in preparation.
Harris explained that Saban’s intensity, while intimidating, was always constructive. “Coach Saban never yelled just to yell. He wanted us to understand that we couldn’t take any shortcuts if we wanted to be great,” Harris said. “He didn’t care if you were the star player or a walk-on—everyone was held to the same standard.”
This unwavering commitment to excellence is what has defined Alabama football under Saban’s leadership. The Crimson Tide have become a powerhouse program, winning multiple national championships and producing a steady pipeline of NFL talent. Harris credits much of his success, both in college and in the NFL, to the lessons he learned from Saban.
Despite the initial shock of being on the receiving end of Saban’s wrath, Harris quickly realized that the coach’s tough-love approach was meant to help him grow. Over time, Harris came to appreciate Saban’s coaching style and the high expectations he set for his players.
“Coach Saban taught me how to be a professional long before I got to the NFL,” Harris said. “He showed me how to handle pressure, how to stay focused, and how to be accountable to my teammates. Those lessons are with me every day.”
Harris’s time at Alabama was nothing short of stellar. He was a key contributor to the Crimson Tide’s success, rushing for over 1,000 yards in both his junior and senior seasons and helping the team secure two national championships. His consistency, work ethic, and leadership made him one of Alabama’s most reliable players during his tenure.
The story of Nick Saban “scaring the hell out” of Damien Harris is just one of many anecdotes that illustrate the impact Saban has had on his players. His intense, no-nonsense approach may not be for everyone, but for those who embrace it, the results speak for themselves. Players like Harris leave Alabama not only as better athletes but also as better individuals, equipped with the tools to succeed in life.
“Coach Saban doesn’t just prepare you for football—he prepares you for everything,” Harris said. “He teaches you how to handle adversity, how to stay disciplined, and how to always strive for the best version of yourself.”
Harris’s reflections on his time at Alabama and his relationship with Saban offer a glimpse into what makes the Crimson Tide program so special. It’s not just about the wins and the championships; it’s about the culture of excellence that Saban has built.
Looking back, Harris is grateful for the lessons he learned from Nick Saban, even the ones that came in the form of intense sideline lectures. “At the time, it was terrifying,” Harris admitted. “But now, I wouldn’t trade it for anything. Those moments made me who I am today.”
For Damien Harris and countless other players who have passed through Alabama’s program, Nick Saban’s legacy isn’t just about the trophies—it’s about the impact he’s had on their lives. Harris’s story is a testament to the power of tough coaching, high expectations, and a relentless pursuit of greatness.
And while Saban may have “scared the hell out” of Harris that day, it’s clear that the lesson he imparted will stay with him forever.