Nick Saban affects college football athletes.
Whether they are incoming recruits or transfers, the 71-year-old relates to everyone. Trezmen Marshall, a transfer linebacker from the University of Georgia, won back-to-back College Football Playoff National Championships under Kirby Smart.
RELATED: Alabama LB gives health update ahead of Tennessee game
He decided to transfer to the University of Alabama for an opportunity at a third straight championship.
Marshall earned the starting job at middle linebacker in fall camp and looks good. He is second on the team for total tackles (40) while posting 3.5 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, and a quarterback hurry. Marshall has helped the Crimson Tide to have the nation’s No. 12 scoring defense (16 ppg allowed), No. 15 total defense (291.6 ypg allowed), and No. 18 rush defense (104.4 ypg allowed).
He’s also assisted the Tide to be No. 3 nationally for sacks (26), tied for sixth in tackles for loss (50), and tied for seventh for interceptions (seven). Marshall appreciates what Coach Smart did for him, but it is different playing for Coach Saban.
He expressed his love for Saban and Alabama football during Tuesday’s interview.
“I love being here,” Marshall said. “I love Coach Saban like I love him. It’s crazy how much I love him. Being here, I found out this is a traditional school. I love that about this school.”
RELATED: Watch: Highlights of new Alabama linebacker Trezmen Marshall
Marshall recently learned the smoking cigars tradition for the Alabama-Tennessee rivalry.
He will enjoy getting an opportunity to do it, but Marshall is focused on winning the game. He beat the Volunteers twice as a member of the Bulldogs; however, he’s locked in on winning as a linebacker for the Tide. His leadership has been huge on defense.
Click here to follow the Bama Elite Podcast
*Get the BEST Alabama football insider information, message board access, and recruiting coverage today! SIGN UP HERE to unlock our subscriber-only content!*
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.
