Alabama Crimson Tide director of athletics Greg Byrne has never been afraid to go to bat for his coaches both publicly and privately, and he did so once again amid Nate Oats being the subject of intense criticism.

One of the most vocal people against Oats’ decision to play Charles Bediako while he was ruled eligible on a TRO was former Auburn Tigers head coach Bruce Pearl. Calling the decision from his former adversary selfish and accusing him of not caring about the conference, creating some major headlines.

Byrne was asked about those comments during an appearance with John Canzano, and reacted directly to them with a shot at Pearl’s past transgressions.

“You know, the bible said he who is without sin shall cast the first stone, and so I try to do my best to live within those parameters,” Byrne said with a smile when asked for his reaction. Canzano pressed further, asking if he is saying Pearl has some sins.

“We all do,” he answered. “The longer you’re in this world, it doesn’t matter. You’re dealing with 650 young people, you’re dealing with 350 employees, you’re dealing with a lot of fans who are passionate about college sports, you’re gonna have challenges, that’s part of it.”

Byrne’s not so subtle jab was of course a reference to the way Pearl’s tenure ended at Tennessee amid an NCAA investigation that found he had committed recruiting violations, and while controversial, Alabama playing Bediako was very much within the framework of the rules.

It’s safe to say there is no love lost between Byrne and Pearl, and the rivalry between the two programs is only going to get more heated if this war of words continues.