It turns out that his false positive and subsequent negatives were all from relatively accurate pcr tests.
"The result came from what is considered the most reliable type of test for the virus, a polymerase chain reaction test, known as a P.C.R.
Saban, who was often seen wearing a mask during games, and university officials repeatedly asserted that he was not experiencing any symptoms, and he maintained an active schedule, coaching practice remotely and making his usual Thursday night appearance on a radio show.
On Friday afternoon, Alabama said that Saban had tested negative on Thursday during his first follow-up screening. The announcement raised hopes in Tuscaloosa — and worries in Athens, Ga., the home of the Bulldogs — that Saban would be able to work on Saturday.
Less than 24 hours later, Robinson said Saban had recorded more negative tests.
Under a new SEC procedure, a person who tests positive may, within 24 hours of that result, take a new P.C.R. test. If that test shows a negative result, the person can take two more P.C.R. tests, each separated by 24 hours.
If those tests also return negative results and the person remains asymptomatic, the player, coach or staff member “may be released from isolation and medically cleared to return to athletics activities only,” according to the league’s guidelines. A third-party company chosen by the SEC is supposed to process the tests."