Leave it to Pat McAfee to turn a college football rivalry into a story that’s equal parts hilarious and brutally honest.
During a recent episode of The Pat McAfee Show, former Alabama head coach Nick Saban joined the desk for their usual banter when he brought up one unforgettable moment from McAfee’s time on College GameDay.
A Laugh With Saban
The conversation took a lighthearted turn when Saban, now a regular on McAfee’s show, brought up the memory of McAfee stirring up Georgia fans before that Alabama game.
“I will never forget when you got all of Georgia fired up and then picked Alabama..
You can never match that” ???????? ~ Coach Saban#PMSLive https://t.co/DyuLprbn7S pic.twitter.com/3iYMe8c70P
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) November 7, 2025
“I’ll never forget when you got all of Georgia fired up and then picked Alabama,” Saban said with a grin. “You can never match that.”
The exchange drew a big laugh from Saban and for good reason. As the former face of the Crimson Tide, Saban knows a thing or two about stoking the flames of the Alabama–Georgia rivalry, especially when it’s McAfee doing the stirring.
McAfee’s “Petty” Georgia Story
McAfee took the opportunity to tell the full story behind that viral moment, admitting it all started long before he picked against Georgia on national television.
The former punter-turned-analyst explained that tensions were already high in Athens after ESPN didn’t renew the contract of former Georgia linebacker and College GameDay analyst David Pollack, a move that didn’t sit well with Bulldog fans.
“This a**hole is in here so they were very …they were a loud bunch against me. I got kicked out of a restaurant in athens, georgia. so think about an entire season of that with how petty you know i am.
McAfee clarified that he had nothing to do with ESPN’s decision and had great respect for Pollack, calling him “a legend and a great analyst.” Still, he couldn’t help but acknowledge his own sense of humor, and maybe a little pettiness, when he chose to side with Alabama ahead of the 2023 SEC Championship matchup.
Saban’s Backing Made It All Worth It
The best part? McAfee’s “petty” pick actually worked out for him. Alabama pulled off the upset, handing Georgia its first loss in 30 games and validating McAfee’s on-air prediction.
“Now you go out and get a win for me…cement it, legendary for me. i appreciate the hell outta ya.”
Saban chuckled and gave McAfee a nod with a nice handshake, enjoying the full-circle moment that perfectly captured the chaos and charm of college football fandom.
A National Treasure on the Mic
McAfee’s blend of charisma, football knowledge, and unfiltered honesty has made him a fan favorite on ESPN’s College GameDay, particularly following the retirement of the legendary Lee Corso earlier this year.
While McAfee’s outspoken nature and big personality can occasionally ruffle feathers, moments like this one show exactly why he’s so beloved; he’s unapologetically himself, even when it lands him in hot water (or outside a restaurant in Athens).
Whether he’s breaking down plays, cracking jokes with Saban, or stirring up college fanbases, McAfee continues to prove why he’s one of the most entertaining figures in sports media today.