Keelon Russell receives status update ahead of Week 11 at Vanderbilt
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Yesterday, the Alabama Crimson Tide had no reason to think they wouldn’t have quarterback Keelon Russell under center on Saturday against Vanderbilt. The freshman quarterback had just been given a probable designation on a recent availability report. But since that release, things have changed.
According to On3’s Pete Nakos and Chris Low, Russell will now be a game-time decision for the matchup with the Commodores.
Austin Mack, Alabama’s senior backup will start if Russell is held out. The Loomis, CA native lost the starting QB competition to Russell this offseason.
Mack has appeared in nine games for the Crimson Tide during his career. His most extensive action came in last year’s Rose Bowl loss to Indiana. After entering the game for an injured Ty Simpson, Mack completed 68.8% of his passes (11/16) for 103 yards.
Head coach Kalen DeBoer brought Mack with him to Tuscaloosa from Washington when he became Alabama’s head coach in 2024. His experience in the system should allow him to operate the Crimson Tide offense fairly well in Nashville.
Alabama (7-2, 5-2 SEC) needs a win over Vanderbilt to remain in great shape for a trip to the final SEC Championship game. The Crimson Tide, with or without Russell, will take on the Commodores at 12:45 p.m. ET on Saturday (SEC Network).
