Nick Saban made it clear he doesn’t read the obituaries written about Alabama’s dynasty. It’s part of the cycle he’s been through time and again. Part of the speculation that comes with a Crimson Tide loss is when the 71-year-old Saban will retire.

In his second appearance on “The Pat McAfee Show,” Saban was asked about his reaction to those future questions.

“It’s kind of laughable,” Saban said live from his office in Tuscaloosa. “I guess I would ask you when’s the first time you heard I was gonna retire? That started about five years ago. I think it creates some advantages for people whether it’s in recruiting or whatever it might be. I love what I’m doing. I’m focused on the challenge.

“I’ve always said I don’t want to ride the program down. I don’t want to do this if I can’t do it anymore. “I feel great right now. I love it. We’ve got lots of challenges this season. I’m looking forward to it. We’re all in.”

The Crimson Tide has claimed six national titles since Saban arrived in 2007 with 45 consensus All-Americans. Alabama is 62-7 in its last full five seasons and has captured one College Football Playoff title in Saban’s given five-year timeframe.

Last week’s loss to Texas has created more noise for the No. 10 Tide (1-1). Saban had never suffered a home loss as decisive to Steve Sarkisian and the Longhorns with last Saturday’s 34-24 defeat. Alabama has been criticized by former players due to its player, which Saban commented on last night.

“People call me and say ‘This guy’s a jerk for saying this about you,’” Saban said Wednesday. “No, he really isn’t. I mean, it’s right. We didn’t play good. I’m responsible for that.”

Alabama has a chance to silence some doubters with a strong performance at South Florida this Saturday (2:30 p.m. CST, ABC).

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Nick Alvarez is a reporter for Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @nick_a_alvarez or email him at [email protected].