Mariano Rivera, the New York Yankees closer, missed just about the entire 2012 season, but don't think that means people forgot about him.  The king of determination, stressful situations, and saves has been rehabbing his torn knee, but he still manages to inspire those who look up to him - including Alabama head coach Nick Saban.

Prior to their championship matchup against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, Alabama Crimson Tide coach Saban used film of Rivera closing out a game as inspiration for his team.  Dick Weiss of the New York Daily News says Saban used the film to show his team exactly what focus was.


You could say the tactic worked as Alabama crushed Notre Dame last night.  Regardless of the outcome, there's no question Rivera is a motivating figure.  He has managed to do what no other player in history has, and he's done so in the city with the most pressure.  Even while making the difficult decision whether to come back or retire, Rivera stayed dedicated to his rehab.  Now, he is to return at the beginning of 2013 and continue his run as the greatest closer of all-time.

River has 608 career saves.  He has a 2.21 career ERA.  He is a living legend, and now that he has decided to return, we will get at least one more year of the focus and determination that makes him an inspiration for plenty of people around the world.
Follow @mlbinjurynews