Nick Saban has Alabama winning by any means necessary

AUBURN, Ala. -- Nick Saban calls on his running back 10 times during a 10-play drive, watching as the seconds melt off the clock in the fourth quarter. A 4th-and-1 attempt is stuffed, but it’s no matter. He sets the coverage and watches his defense go to work, first forcing a turnover on downs and then a fumble to end the game.

Another Iron Bowl in the books. Another win, and another trip to Atlanta for the SEC championship game.

On the face of it, this looks like Saban’s dream team on the field against Auburn on Saturday night, his master plan come to fruition. He feeds his workhorse running back whenever possible, asks his quarterback only to manage the offense, and relies on the best front…