Nick Saban didn't hesitate.
He blamed Michigan and Ohio State for the brawl after the Wolverines' 13-10 win last Saturday, but also the NCAA, which fined each program.
The legendary former coach was not happy with everyone involved.
“I think we need guidelines, but I think levying $100,000 fines on these schools is like worrying about rat feces when you're snorting an elephant,” Saban said Saturday. He spoke on ESPN's “College Gameday.”
Shortly after Michigan's win over Ohio State, the fourth straight victory in the storied rivalry, Wolverines players began celebrating by holding up flags and Buckeyes logos near midfield.
A scuffle then broke out as an Ohio State player blocked a Michigan player from planting a flag.
As a result, police on the field used pepper spray on the players.
The incident was one of a few similar skirmishes that occurred across the country during Rivalry Week.
“I'm more upset about teams trying to put up flags because I think it's disrespectful and I don't think it shows a lot of sportsmanship,” Saban said. “You want to beat the other team, but this disrespect that everyone wants to show is probably not a good part of the game.
“And I think you have to protect your brand. If college football players want to get paid, and they still get paid, they have to do something to protect their brand. The NFL Protect your brand. When things like this are bad for the game, we have to learn how to protect our brand. Show good sportsmanship so people can relate to the game in a positive way. .”
Saban believes head coaches should be in control.
“I think coaches can control that,” Saban said. “If you tell the team, 'We're not going to do this,' we're not going to do it. It's no different than having an injury. Coaches can stop it, and we're not going to do it.” You can stop it, and I think it's better for the game if you stop it.”
