Alabama managed to prevent its beloved strength and conditioning coach from joining Kirby Smart at Georgia.

Smart, the Tide's longtime defensive coordinator who recently took over as Georgia's coach, attempted to get Scott Cochran to leave and take the same role with the Bulldogs. But Cochran is staying at Alabama, the school announced Monday night.

"I'm very happy that Scott Cochran will continue to lead our strength and conditioning program," Tide coach Nick Saban said in a statement. "He's an important part of our program and does an outstanding job. The players really respond to him, and his role has been a big part of what we have been able to accomplish in terms of our success here both on and off the field."

Cochran is valued enough by Alabama that he was already making $420,000 this year.

"I appreciate everything The University of Alabama has done for me and my family during our nine years here," Cochran said. "It's a privilege and an honor to work at such a special place. What makes it so special are the people here and all of the fans who support the Crimson Tide. I'm just fired up to be a part of this program and helping to continue the success we've had. I'm grateful for the chance to work with our players each day, and that's what this is really about. Coach Saban has been great to us, and I want to thank him for all the opportunities he has given us. Roll Tide!"