in 2007, Nebraska was 5-7. In Bo's first year or 2008, we had 9 wins including the bowl win. Last year, we got to double digit wins with the obvious stomping of Zona in the Holiday Bowl. Next year, I don't see us winning anything short of 11 games (could be lowballing it). So say we win 12 games? Win the Big 12? When is Bo considered among the great coaches? Let me remind you Nick Saban took a 6-7 Bama team to 7-6, 12-2, and then 14-0 as national champs.
First, I would argue that Saban is not yet a "great" coach, and may never be one.
In my opinion, "greatness" requires the following:
1. Successful seasons, as measured by wins and losses.
2. Successful programs, as measured by graduation rates, player behavior and discipline issues and by player successfully transitioning into whatever life they choose after college sports.
3. High level of personal integrity, adherence to the letter and intent of recruiting, eligibility and graduation rules and a strong personal commitment to the success and well-being of players, both on and off the field.
Saban, in my view, has achieved #1. #2, and #3, not so much. Even if he stays inthe top 10 and the national title hunt for the next 10 years, without improvement in #2 and #3 he will never equal Tom Osborne or Joe Paterno.
All that being said, I would say Bo is on track to reach the Osborne level, but it will be 10 years before all the evidence is in.