Follow the Leader

 - "The only way we are going to change behavior is to affect the things that are important to people." - Nick Saban

Follow Me to the Promised Land

Nick Saban's method of teaching is nothing new. The same methods have been practiced by countless cult leaders throughout history. The trick is to take a mind, preferably a clean slate (and Lord knows that's what most of his recruits and fans are), and mold into a  robot that is convinced that the thoughts you are teaching it belong to them.. After watching A.J. McCarron regurgitate the motto of his coach over and over after each ballgame, its a wonder he hasn't put on a white robe and started selling flowers on the street corner.

So, what is the process really? Is Saban simply using his powers for the good of turning boys into men, or is he something more? All cult leaders hide behind a cloak of mystery and hate being in the public eye. Sounds familiar doesn't it?

These are the nine characteristics of a cult according to Michael Langone, Ph.D.

1. The group displays zealous, unquestioning commitment to their leader.
     -With his players trained like robots and his fans following him around like the Pied Piper, the Tide seems qualified for step one.       

2. The leadership dictates how the group should act and feel.
     -Lord have mercy, Saban goes as far as to tell his "fans" how to act.

3. Mind altering acts are used to suppress doubts.
    -Dr. Kevin Elko and Trevor Moawab are regulars in the Saban camp, preaching their brain washing techniques. Hmmm.
   
4. The group is elitist, claiming an exalted status for itself.
     -Damn. Step four is a given.

5. The group has a polarized us versus them mentality.
    -If listening to them whine about everyone trying to keep them out of the national championship games doesn't qualify them for step six I don't know what does.

6. The leader is not accountable to any authorities.
     -This one is almost funny.
    
7. The group is preoccupied with bringing in new members.
     -Can anyone say "Number one recruiting class?"

8. The group is preoccupied with making money.
     -Highest paid coach. One of the wealthiest programs.

9. The group teaches that its supposedly exalted ends justify whatever means it deems necessary.
     -Deer Antler Spray?

We have been so wrapped up in our hatred of Alabama since the arrival of "The Chosen One" we have turned our backs on the innocent players and fans who have been suckered into "The Trap".
We shouldn't be hating the Alabama faithful, we should be helping them. We need to get as many of them as we can out of this trance before the FBI raids the place and Nick Saban sets fire to the whole compound.

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