GameDay aired a feature on Downs, his childhood and his decision to leave Alabama for the Buckeyes following the retirement of coach Nick Saban after last season. Afteward, Saban first offered praise for Downs — who was named first-team All-SEC and the national Freshman of the Year in 2023 — and then told a hilarious story about their relationship.

Ohio State safety Caleb Downs, who previously played at Alabama under Nick Saban, offered a story to his former head coach about the difference

Nick Saban heaped praise upon Caleb Downs during a 'College Gameday' segment in which he said he had to pay the Ohio State star $500 for cursing.