Arizona coach Rich Rodriguez on pace of play: 'Cry me a river'

Alabama coach Nick Saban was among the coaches in favor of a rule proposal that would have required offenses to wait 10 seconds to expire from the 40-second play clock before snapping the ball. While the proposal was withdrawn in March, pace of play has remained a hot topic among coaches.

Alabama coach Nick Saban was among the coaches in favor of a rule proposal that would have required offenses to wait 10 seconds to expire from the 40-second play clock before snapping the ball.

While the proposal was withdrawn in March, pace of play has remained a hot topic among coaches.

Arizona's Rich Rodriguez, who is renowned for coaching uptempo, spread offenses, spoke out against the proposal and has pushed back against the notion that rapid pace of play poses health risks for players.

Missouri's Gary Pinkel has likewise defended the HUNH, while Arkansas' Bret Beilema and Alabama's Nick Saban have pointed to player safety in advocating a slower tempo.

On Friday, Rodriguez commented on Alabama coach Nick Saban's contention that uptempo offenses take defensive coaches out of the game.

Rich Rod on Saban saying fast pace takes defensive coaches from game: “Cry me a river. No one comes to games to watch defensive coaches"

— Brett McMurphy (@Brett_McMurphy) July 25, 2014

Under Saban, Alabama has ranked among the nation's top defensive teams. The Crimson Tide finished first in the SEC and fifth in the country in total defense last season, and led the nation in total and scoring defense in 2011 and 2012.

More: His innovative offense now the norm, Rich Rodriguez must keep evolving

- Chris Johnson