CFB14 hr ago
Alabama Turns to Russell at QB vs Vanderbilt
Crimson Tide make last-second switch after pregame warmups show improvement from injured starter.
· 1 min read
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Game-Time Decision
No. 3 Alabama chose to start Keelon Russell against Vanderbilt after the quarterback showed more progress than expected during pregame warmups. The team had planned to go with Austin Mack following Russell's ankle issues during the week. Russell had been slated for a reserve role to aid recovery but instead shared equal repetitions with Mack before the final call was made that he would play.
Injury Background
Russell suffered the ankle injury in the second half of the prior week's victory at LSU. The ankle received taping, and he continued playing through discomfort. The sophomore has started every game this season and ranks among the nation's top quarterbacks, having thrown for 2,263 yards with 18 touchdowns and five interceptions while adding 276 rushing yards and five scores. His 86.5 QBR stands second only to Miami's Darian Mensah.
Backup Quarterback Details
Russell earned the starting role over Mack late in preseason camp. Mack, a fourth-year player who joined from Washington in 2025, has seen action in four games this season and completed 3 of 4 passes for 23 yards.
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