People are always quick to point out Nick Saban’s fiery rants and “rat poison” references. On Thursday, Pat McAfee asked the Alabama coach if he’s “softer” on his Crimson Tide players after a loss.

The Tide (1-1) is coming off a 34-24 loss to Texas at home. The critics have been out in force, questioning whether the dynasty is over. Former Alabama quarterback Greg McElroy declared the dynasty dead. During his weekly appearance on “The Pat McAfee Show,” Saban reacted to the ESPN analyst’s assertion.

“I think that’s probably right,” Saban said. “You know people are going to be affected by external factors, so regardless of how much we talk about the standard coming internally, motivation comes externally. We are still affected by what happens externally.

“If everyone is hearing how great they are, sometimes you need to get on them a little but to make sure they aren’t going down that road. Sometimes when they are getting criticized a lot, you need to pat them on the butt. There’s times you need to kick them in the butt. There’s a time when you just don’t say anything.

“Knowing how to do that and when to do that is probably important.”

Mark Heim is a reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim. He can be heard on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5 FM in Mobile or on the free Sound of Mobile App from 6 to 9 a.m. daily.