Alabama Crimson Tide head coach Nick Saban. John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

Nick Saban had some serious — and funny — praise for Arkansas quarterback KJ Jefferson over one particular play during the Razorbacks’ loss to the Alabama Crimson Tide.

Saban singled Jefferson out over one fourth quarter play in which Jefferson was about to be sacked, only to escape a tackle and complete a pass for a first down. Jefferson managed to do it after shrugging off Alabama defensive back Terrion Arnold in an impressive display.

Saban certainly liked what he saw, referring to the play as “one of the most impressive plays I’ve ever seen a player make,” all while using a pretty great analogy for it.

Saban is known for his rather blunt and honest approach to coaching his own team. While he is always respectful of the opposition, it is uncommon for him to be that effusive in praising a rival player. Considering the play in question, it is understandable here.

Alabama held on for a 24-21 win over the Razorbacks, with Jefferson going 14-for-24 for 150 yards with two touchdown passes.

More must-reads:

TODAY'S BEST
Bettors are buying Bronny James hype before the 2024 NBA Draft
Mets release veteran infielder
Anderson Silva, Chael Sonnen will finish off their trilogy in a boxing ring
Victor Wembanyama, Chet Holmgren highlight 2023-24 All-Rookie team
Jaguars' Doug Pederson discusses Trevor Lawrence contract extension
Saints, star CB 'moving forward' following trade chatter
Pacers ride historic shooting performance to Game 7 blowout of Knicks
Timberwolves mount incredible second-half comeback to stun Nuggets in Game 7
Xander Schauffele proves doubters wrong with historic win at 2024 PGA Championship
Four things we learned from Joey Logano's All-Star Race win at North Wilkesboro
Phil Foden lifts Manchester City to fourth consecutive English Premier League title
Watch: Aaron Judge blasts 13th home run in Yankees' seventh straight win
Canucks won't have linchpin forward for Game 7 vs. Oilers
Jags reportedly mulling extension for Trevor Lawrence, but is that the right choice?
Gordon Hayward calls role with Thunder 'frustrating'
Mets reliever Edwin Diaz showing short shelf life of closers
Three offseason moves the 49ers must make
Watch: NASCAR drivers exchange punches after crash in All-Star Race
Knicks star offers passionate defense of HC Tom Thibodeau after Game 7 loss
Knicks' Jalen Brunson suffers serious injury in Game 7 vs. Pacers

Want more sports news?

Join the hundreds of thousands of fans who start their day with Yardbarker's Morning Bark, the best newsletter in sports.