per http://www.bhamwiki.com --- 7 modern era's (1961, 1964, 1965, 1973, 1978, 1979, 1992), and 5 they claim historically or others attribute to them (1925, 1926, 1930, 1934, 1941).

also observed that there was a 20 year gap from Frank W Thomas 1941 championship team to the 'Bear's' first natty in 1961; and also there was a 17 year gap from Gene Stallings 1992 champs until Saban's first in 2009. 1998 occurred during that gap.

hmmm ... even teams perpetually strong through the years have spans of less competitiveness, marginal success, and fewer major winning seasons.