Alabama's Nick Saban applauds Deion Sanders' coaching abilities

Nick Saban hasn't had much time to watch Deion Sanders' progress at Colorado. However, the GOAT college football icon recognized the "Prime Effect" and said he's excited for what's happening in Boulder.

"I have been able to see him a lot. I saw a bit of the game last week against Colorado State," Saban admitted in his weekly press conference. "I have a tremendous respect for Deion Sanders. First, he's a great person and he's done a great job at marketing the program to create a lot of national interest." 

Sanders has taken the Buffs from the basement to the top of the college football world at a record pace. It's something that Saban can appreciate, but was also predictable in his eyes knowing Prime's worth. 

"I see (Colorado) playing well on the field. They play with discipline and do a good job at executing. They been able to score points. Playing decent on defense. So, all those things to be are indicators that here's a really good coach. I've always thought that and he's always been successful." 

Both Sanders and Saban are friends outside of being peers. When Coach Prime decided to leave Jackson State for Colorado, one of his first calls was to Charles Kelly, who was Saban's defensive coordinator at the time. It's hard not to have respect for both men. They also collaborate periodically for commercials and sponsorship opportunities. 

Colorado's faced with the task of upsetting No. 10 Oregon this week. A 3:30 p.m. ET matchup with the Ducks at Autzen Stadium on ABC.