TALLAHASSEE, Florida – Everyone was taken aback when they learned about Nick Saban’s unexpected retirement. Two players who had already registered on the NCAA Transfer Portal were among those.
After leading Tuscaloosa for 17 years and turning the Crimson Tide into a dynasty, Saban announced his retirement on January 10.
Two of the five players who transferred from Alabama to Florida State this offseason were wide receiver n Malik Bensoand offensive tackle Terrence Ferguson. Both made themselves available to the FSU media on Tuesday as newcomers.
Ferguson played 116 total snaps in five games for Alabama this season. Early in the season, he made one start, against South Florida.Saban’s choice took him by surprise.
Ferguson remarked, “It was a little surprising, but it’s respected.” “I and every other person who has played for him have the utmost regard for him. It’s just respected to be in there with him every day and watch how he approaches the work given his age.”
On January 11, Ferguson made his FSU commitment while Mike Norvell, the head coach at FSU, was still being heavily considered to succeed Nick Saban. The following day, Norvell signed an extension to the deal, but he left Ferguson with a clue.
Ferguson recalled, “Coach Norvell told me, ‘I’m here.'”
At Alabama, Ferguson did not play as much as he would have liked. However, the redshirt sophomore claimed that he valued the practice opportunities since they allowed him to improve.
Ferguson remarked, “Those practices really helped me out.” “I have a strong feeling that Alabama’s workouts will often be more difficult than a game. It was enjoyable.”
After spending two years at Hutchinson Community College in Lansing, Kansas, Benson signed a contract with Alabama. During that time, he finished with 97 receptions for 2,152 yards and 21 touchdowns.
In his one and only season in Tuscaloosa, he recorded 13 receptions for 162 yards and one touchdown.
“I am definitely grateful for coach Saban for giving me the opportunity to be able to play for him,” Benson stated. “To be honest, I didn’t expect he would retire. However, he’s a fantastic coach, and I can always apply some of the jewels he taught me in life, not only in football. I genuinely appreciate him.
