New video makes Nick Saban look even worse for not suspending Jermaine Burton

Nick Saban’s decision not to suspend Jermaine Burton looks worse after new video showed a clearer picture of the Alabama WR striking out at a Tennessee fan.

Nick Saban has had an illustrious career as a college football coach. But he’s also proof that even the best coaches can be blinded by bad decision-making.

Alabama wide receiver Jermaine Burton was caught on video striking a female Tennessee fan who rushed the field after the Volunteers upset the Crimson Tide. The Alabama head coach chose not to punish the player in any visible way.

Burton suited up to play and even started against Mississippi State over the weekend. Saban tried to absolve his receiver by saying he was scared while walking off the field.

New video of the incident pretty much disproves that as an excuse.

New video shows why Nick Saban should have suspended Jermaine Burton

Burton comes in contact with a few Tennessee fans as he walks off the field. At the 19-second mark, he strikes out at the female fan, who was literally jumping out of his way to avoid him.

She posed him no threat. He certainly didn’t look like he was afraid in that moment.

Saban missed the mark by not having Burton sit out for a game, a half or even a single quarter for his actions.

Teams are fined when their fans rush the field because of the potential dangers of that activity. Fans can’t be allowed to put athletes in danger. But players also need to hold responsibility for their actions toward fans who enter their space. College football coaches shouldn’t be sending a message that it’s okay to take a potshot at any fan that comes within arms reach.

For more College Football news, analysis, opinion and unique coverage by FanSided, including Heisman Trophy and College Football Playoff rankings, be sure to bookmark these pages.