Stabler should keep his job, but seek help
June 13, 2008
With Nick Saban voicing support for Kenny Stabler, the Crimson Tide’s radio analyst hardly needs mine.
But I’ll give it, anyway.
Stabler’s third DUI arrest since 1995 has the rumor mill spinning about whether he will — or should — return to his position this fall.
Here’s my first impression of this situation: If you are predisposed to be offended or are easily mortified, you probably are inclined to take a “three strikes and you’re out” stance against Stabler.
Provided he is guilty, he’s certainly provided ammunition to those calling for his dismissal.
Three DUIs in 13 years is three too many. Driving under the influence taints Saban’s description of Stabler as “a great ambassador for this university.”
I think great ambassadors need to blow under a .08.
But I don’t think he should be fired.
Stabler’s image — deserved or not — is a likable guy who loves to have fun. Who can begrudge him that? That part of his fun is spent with a beverage in his hand shouldn’t surprise anyone.
“That’s just Snake,” people say.
And it is.
You take the good with the bad, but you work on those flaws. I think the guy needs help.
The way to do that isn’t to fire him. Instead, he should have to start and stay with an alcohol program — and I don’t mean 12 ounces at a time.
Just as Saban said there are conditions on suspended linebacker Prince Hall before he returns to the team, that’s one condition that should be put on Stabler before he returns to the booth.
Don’t think it’s going to be easy. Don’t think he’d be getting off easy.
But if he does seek help, he needs to be supported by his fans, his friends and his employer.
This way, it’s kind of up to him.
