Alabama football suffered a couple of injuries in its victory over Mississippi, including one on its offensive line.
Nick Saban looked at Terrence Ferguson as a starter in the preseason.
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The former four-star in the 2021 class arrived as one the best offensive guard prospects in the nation. Ferguson, a native Georgian, played six career games before this season. He recorded 53 snaps in 2022, but Ferguson has grown in run-blocking and pass protection. He displays versatility as a guard and center, earning his first career start against South Florida. Ferguson cleared the way for 203 rushing yards — helping the Crimson Tide control the pace of the matchup in the fourth quarter. The 6-foot-4, 322-pounder brings a physicality that unites the line. Alabama plays with an identity when Ferguson is a starter up front.
No one knows what Ferguson hurt against the Rebels, but he is ‘questionable’ for Saturday’s matchup versus Miss. State.
If he cannot go, Darrian Dalcourt becomes the immediate next man up. Dalcourt, a fifth-year senior, has starting experience for the Tide as a guard. He has made three starts at right guard this season. Jaeden Roberts, a redshirt sophomore, is a second option for Alabama. A native Texan, Roberts came in the 2021 class with Ferguson from North Shore High School. The 6-foot-5, 316-pounder redshirted his freshman season, but he played in three games in 2022. He got in seven snaps against Middle Tennessee State to start this year. Olaus Alinen and Roq Montgomery, two true freshmen, have the potential to be very successful guards. Alinen was recruited to be a tackle; however, he possesses the footwork and hand strength to work inside.
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Dalcourt will get the first opportunity if Ferguson cannot go.
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Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
