Big Ten Coach Put in the Same League as Nick Saban by Ex-Alabama Running Back

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Dean Koutouratsas | Last updated Jun 12, 2025 2:56 PM ET

Michigan Wolverines transfer Justice Haynes has already played under Nick Saban and now sees some similar traits in Sherrone Moore’s coaching style.

The 20-year-old halfback played two seasons with the Alabama Crimson Tide from 2023-24. In his freshman and lone season under Saban he rushed for 168 yards and two touchdowns.

In his sophomore season following Saban’s retirement and under new coach Kalen DeBoer, Haynes improved by recording 448 rushing yards and seven touchdowns. Haynes added 99 receiving yards out of the backfield.

He announced his transfer to Michigan on Jan. 3 as the transfer portal's No. 1 halfback and has been in the midst of the Wolverines training camp, where drew comparisons between Saban and Moore during an interview.

“He reminds me of a young coach Saban in a lot of ways,” Haynes told On3 reporter Peter Nakos on Thursday. “He’s going to kick it with you. He’s going to have fun with you, but then there is also a time to be serious and a time to be disciplined.”

Saban was well known for prioritizing discipline and preparation throughout training, and it seems Moore does the same.

“Everything is discipline-oriented around there,” Haynes added. “We train differently from anyone else in the country. We work harder than anyone in the country, and we’re all about running the ball and stopping the run.”

Moore’s team revolves around developing a strong run defense and rushing offense. Last season, the Wolverines went 8-5 and took down fellow powerhouses Ohio State (13-10) on Nov. 30 and Alabama (19-13) in the ReliaQuest Bowl on Dec. 31.

Michigan's running back room rushed for a combined total of 2,043 yards and 18 touchdowns last season. Meanwhile, their rushing defense recorded 744 total tackles and 460 solo tackles.

“That’s what we pride ourselves on, and that’s what led to my decision,” Haynes continued.

Heading into the upcoming season, the Wolverines are expected to have a solid year, with Haynes taking carries out of the backfield to help the offense reach new heights.

“I knew they were going to value the running back position, and I knew I could thrive in the offense,” he concluded.

Michigan opens its season against the New Mexico Lobos on Aug. 30 inside Michigan Stadium.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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