Former Alabama DC Pete Golding reportedly used Steve Sarkisian’s alcoholism in Arch Manning recruitment

Pete Golding’s legacy at Alabama is questionable to say the least and a new excerpt from Seth Wickersham’s book may not do him any extra favors.

Prior to the new release, “American Kings: A Biography of the Quarterback” Wickersham detailed recruiting stories from Texas quarterback Arch Manning. Manning was amongst the most coveted and covered high school prospects in recent memory as several of the top college football programs were vying for his interest

One of those programs was the Crimson Tide and Wickersham shared a peculiar story where Golding went low in his recruiting tactics.

As Golding was speaking with Manning on a Zoom call, the former Alabama defensive coordinator, now at Ole Miss, referenced Sarkisian’s struggles with alcoholism in a rather odd attempt to try and appease Nick Saban.

“I love Sark,” Golding reportedly said to Manning, per Wickersham. “He’s my best friend … (pause) … I hope he can stay sober.”

Following the call, Manning’s high school coach Nelson Stewart reportedly called back Golding to share his disdain for his recruiting approach.

Golding allegedly responded that Saban was adding pressure to him during the recruiting trail saying “Daddy’s on me.”

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