At Alabama I can care about academics a ton. I can come in early, go to summer school, take a full load second semester, graduate in 5 years, and make sure my fall class schedule is “light”.
This allows me to still achieve my academic goals but also be able to focus on my athletic goals in season. More rest, film watching, less stress, etc.
At ND that isn’t an option. You have to graduate in 4 years.