Much like New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick, it’s sometimes difficult to tell if Alabama coach Nick Saban is joking or not.

The usually no-nonsense coach met with the media after the Tide’s first practice on Thursday. On his way out of the room, he made an interesting remark:

Speaking of Belichick, Saban also mentioned the Patriots coach in today’s press conference while discussing the status of DB Maurice Smith, who is seeking a transfer from Alabama:

Though Alabama has faced its share of problems this offseason, it sounds like Saban was actually in a good mood today.

He’s happy football is back and SEC fans certainly are, too.