Pat McAfee Tossed by Nick Saban, Bryce Young on College GameDay
The ESPN analyst was playfully manhandled after picking Georgia to defeat Alabama.
Pat McAfee found himself on the receiving end of a playful physical altercation with Nick Saban and Bryce Young on ESPN College GameDay in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. The incident occurred as McAfee made his prediction for the highly anticipated SEC showdown between Georgia and Alabama.
Despite being in the heart of Crimson Tide territory, surrounded by passionate fans and Alabama football legends, McAfee declared his pick for the Georgia Bulldogs to upset the Crimson Tide. The announcement was met with a mix of boos from the crowd and a swift reaction from Saban and Young.
As McAfee delivered his controversial pick, Saban rose from his seat and playfully grabbed at him, with Young joining in. The pair then wrestled McAfee to the floor, much to the amusement of the Alabama faithful. McAfee, embracing the bit, lay on the floor shouting apologies and began barking to mimic the Georgia Bulldogs.
McAfee had initially praised Alabama's strengths, acknowledging their talented players and coach Kalen DeBoer's established system. However, he concluded his segment by stating, "Give me Georgia to beat everybody out here! Sorry Coach Saban!"
Both teams entered the game with undefeated 5-0 records. Georgia held the No. 2 ranking, while Alabama was ranked No. 6. The College GameDay broadcast was moved indoors to the Coleman Coliseum due to the potential threat of Hurricane Isaias.
Earlier on Friday, Saban had spoken highly of Georgia, calling them "one of the most complete teams in the country" during an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show. He noted their consistent dominance and ability to win without trailing, while also acknowledging that they had yet to face competition on the level of Alabama.