The college sports world was taken by complete surprise Wednesday night with the shocking announcement that Alabama's Nick Saban would be retiring after 17 seasons as the Crimson Tide's coach.

Saban won one at LSU, six at Alabama and a record seven national championships during his time coaching in the NCAA. His overall record as head coach was 297-71-1.

As news of his sudden retirement spread, Alabama's legislative leaders paid tribute to perhaps the greatest coach in college football history.

U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville, who was the head coach of the Auburn Tigers from 1999 to 2008 (the only Alabama senator to actually play against Saban on the field), is the head coach of the Auburn Tigers from 1999 to 2008. He said it may never be comparable.

Congratulations to Nick Saban on his historic career. pic.twitter.com/hk4dNE45ma

— Coach Tommy Tuberville (@SenTuberville) January 11, 2024

U.S. Sen. Katie Britt, a University of Alabama graduate, called Saban the greatest coach in track and field history.

Thank you, Coach Saban. Best ever. pic.twitter.com/lRAX9LGMcM

— Sen. Katie Boyd Britt (@SenKatieBritt) January 11, 2024

U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville), also from the University of Alabama, simply called Saban the greatest of all time.

College football will never be the same. You are the GOAT coach Saban. roll tide. #rtr pic.twitter.com/B4fUtG6G8L

— Robert Aderholt (@Robert_Aderholt) January 10, 2024

U.S. Representative Dale Strong (R-Monrovia), along with his wife, Mrs. Terry Saban, wished Mr. Saban good health and a happy retirement.

Congratulations to Coach Saban on your well-deserved retirement. After seven national titles and 11 SEC Championships, Coach Saban has arguably secured his place as one of the greatest coaches in college football history. Enjoy your retirement with Coach Terry! pic.twitter.com/07ihAo5UyY

— Dale W. Strong (@RepDaleStrong) January 11, 2024

Gov. Kay Ivey called the Sabans “formidable Alabamians.”

Nick Saban will go down as one of the best players in college football. And in Alabama, and in our culture, that means something. He and Terry are also great Alabamians who have made significant contributions to the Tuscaloosa community and the entire state. For you, Coach, I say this: Roll Tide!

— Governor Kay Ivey (@GovernorKayIvey) January 11, 2024

Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth thanked Saban on behalf of the entire state.

Nick Saban coached countless young people to become great athletes and characters. Congratulations to Coach Saban on your legendary tenure at the University of Alabama. The entire state appreciates your contributions to the university and the Tuscaloosa community.

— Will Ainsworth (@willainsworthAL) January 10, 2024

Alabama Sen. Greg Reed (R-Jasper) said Saban was an exemplary leader during his time at the University of Alabama, and his influence will be “felt for generations.”

Nick Saban's tradition and standards of excellence have been a role model for all leaders and an inspiration to players, coaches and fans.his contribution @Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama will be felt for generations. Thank you, Coach. 🐐https://t.co/STPjpMZVr1

— Senator Greg Reed (@SenatorGregReed) January 10, 2024

The University of Alabama announced Wednesday night that it plans to fill the head coaching position within 72 hours.

Austin Shipley is a staff writer at Yellowhammer News.