.jpg)
1 hour ago
3
The 2026 Alabama Crimson Tide spring game drew tons of attention to the battle for QB1 between fourth-year junior Austin Mack and redshirt freshman Keelon Russell. Following the scrimmage, Kalen DeBoer might be put in a tough situation where he’s forced to start a freshman come Week 1.
Russell led the Tide on nine total drives for the day, throwing 21/33 for 24o yards, four touchdowns, and one interception. Mack, in five drives, went 6/12 for 101 yards, one touchdown, and one interception.
Although Mack started the day, he was limited due to a minor preexisting injury and did not receive any medical attention on the sideline.
“We just had to limit Austin just with some stuff. That was why,” DeBoer said. “This week was a little bit where Keelon got more reps, just with some things Austin’s going through. Austin’s good for the most part, but wasn’t able to finish it out. But he’ll be fine.”
Kalen DeBoer says Austin Mack was “going through” some stuff, and had to be limited, which is why Keelon Russell saw more reps at the end of A-Day. He added that Mack “will be fine.” pic.twitter.com/R5DMQzljIA
— Theodore Fernandez (@TheoFernandez__) April 11, 2026Both Russell and Mack did see action in the 2025-26 season. Mack appeared in four games, including the CFP quarterfinal against Indiana, going 24/32 for 228 yards and two touchdowns. Russell saw action in two games, throwing 11/15 for 143 yards and two touchdowns as well.
More: Jon Sumrall, Florida Gators heating up 2027 recruiting class
The last time Alabama started a redshirt freshman in Week 1 was in 2016 with Blake Barnett, who was later replaced in that same week by then true freshman Jalen Hurts, who remained the starter for the remainder of the year.
Alabama kicks off their season on September 5th against ECU. An answer on their QB1 should be made long before then.
English (US)