Even though Iron Bowl preparations will still continue on Thursday, Nick Saban and the Alabama football team will take a little time off to enjoy Thanksgiving.

The head coach met with the media for the final time this week ahead of another meeting with the Auburn Tigers. He made sure to take a minute to share his thoughts on the holiday and explain why he feels the day is so important.

"Thanksgiving is a great holiday, probably one of my favorite holidays," Saban said. "We spend a lot of time thinking about what we don't have, but this is the one time we ought to be thinking about all of the good things we do have.

"I just think this is a wonderful time for everybody to say to yourself, 'I'm happy to be here.' And look at all of the good things that you have that we all should be thankful for. So I wish everybody a Happy Thanksgiving."

Saban was asked about his contributions to Thanksgiving dinner at his home, but said he wouldn't get there until 15 minutes before eating. He, along with other members of the coaching staff, will host players that can't travel home on Thursday.

The team will practice on Thanksgiving before players leave to spend some time with family and friends. Alabama plays its final regular season game of the season against unranked Auburn on Saturday.

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