TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (AP) — Kalen DeBoer stood at a lectern, only a few feet from Nick Saban, and enthusiastically embraced the chance to both replace and learn from his larger-than-life predecessor. All that makes it easier to be the guy who replaces the guy who brought six national championships to Tuscaloosa in 17 years. A huge photo of Saban and players hoisting a national championship trophy hung on the wall behind DeBoer as he talked to reporters. DeBoer spoke with Saban on the phone Friday morning and called him again the next morning. Still, he wiped away tears while talking about leaving his Washington players who made it to the brink of a national title.

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Persons: Kalen DeBoer, Nick Saban, Saban, ”, “, ” DeBoer, Denny, Terry, Stuart R, Bell, ” Bell, DeBoer, ” DeBoers, Dezz Ricks, Isaiah Bonds, Greg Byrne's, Byrne, Nicole, you’d, ” Byrne Organizations: “, Bryant, Tide, University, Alabama, ESPN, Associated, NAIA, Sioux, Fresno State, Huskies, Washington, Southeastern Conference, College Football Playoff, DeBoer, LSU, AP Locations: TUSCALOOSA, Ala, Washington, Tuscaloosa, DeBoer, South Dakota, alma, Alabama