Nick Saban Accused of Filling SEC Program with ‘Rat Poison’ After Upset

Former Alabama head coach Nick Saban is being called out for providing "rat poison" before Auburn's 21-14 upset loss to Cal on Saturday.

Saban has used the term "rat poison" to refer to media hype and external noise. The legendary coach believed that if his team focused too much on opinions from outside the locker room, it could inflate their egos and prevent them from performing at their highest potential.

Now, as a media member, Saban is paid to offer those kinds of opinions. He shared his thoughts on Auburn ahead of their matchup with Cal.

“I think (Auburn coach) Hugh Freeze is going to do an outstanding job,” Saban said on College GameDay . “I think they are going to be one of the most improved teams in the SEC.

“D.J. Durkin is a great addition for them as a defensive coordinator. I really think they are going to make a huge impact, especially with the explosive players they have added to their offense. They are someone that everyone is going to have to reckon with.”

Those comments didn't sit well with Auburn fans after they were beaten by the Bears as a double-digit favorite.

"And Nick Saban said 'Auburn will dominate this game.' Wonder if that was some reverse rat poison from the guy that created the term," one fan speculated .

"I blame Nick Saban’s rat poison," another said .

Auburn's offense looked disjointed for most of the matchup against Cal. Tigers QB Payton Thorne finished with just 165, one touchdown and four interceptions.

"Saban's been giving auburn rat poison, he knows what he's doing," another fan said .

Auburn will look to get on track next week against New Mexico State.

Related: Legendary Program Becomes Laughingstock of College Football After Startling Loss

Related: NIU Coach's Postgame Interview Goes Viral After Stunning Notre Dame