Extension for Saban is approved

If Alabama Coach Nick Saban sticks around for another nine years, it will be worth $5 million to him and, the Crimson Tide hopes, a few more championships for the program.

The university system’s Board of Trustees compensation committee unanimously approved Wednesday the three-year extension through Jan. 31, 2018, that doesn’t include a salary hike but rewards Saban for staying put and guarantees that he will remain among college football’s five highest paid coaches.

Rutgers freshman Tom Savage, one of the most highly touted recruits to sign with Rutgers, will start at quarterback Saturday against Howard.

Rutgers picks Savage

Illinois rules

Illinois will be without one of its leading rushers Saturday when it tries for its first win of the season.

Coach Ron Zook said Mikel Leshoure has been suspended for an unspecified violation of team rules. The sophomore running back won’t play in Illinois’ home opener against Illinois State.

Flu at Mississippi

Mississippi running back Dexter McCluster spent Tuesday night in a hospital because of flu symptoms and nearly two dozen other players sat out practice Wednesday as the virus continued to sweep though the team.