Nick Saban weighs in on Alabama QB battle, says Keelon Russell will be an ‘outstanding player’
By Ethan Stone
Published:
Alabama fans are eagerly awaiting the results of the Crimson Tide’s ongoing quarterback battle, which likely won’t be decided for a few weeks as Keelon Russell and Austin Mack compete for the starting job.
On Wednesday while making an appearance on SEC Network from SEC Media Days, Nick Saban weighed in on the battle. Here’s what the former Alabama coach had to say:
“I think both these guys are capable,” Saban said. “Sometimes you got to say, quarterback is the most difficult position to play based on how the people around you play. That may have something to do with who they determine is the starter. What’s the best fit with the rest of the players on the team? I think both guys are capable.”
RELATED: Ready to play daily fantasy sports? Check out the SDS guide to the best DFS apps!
Saban had more to say about Russell, a former 5-star with immense physical capabilities that some expect to win the job over the more experienced Mack, who has been with head coach Kalen DeBoer since they came to Tuscaloosa from Washington.
“Keelon Russell, I’ve watched this guy for two springs. He didn’t play much in the fall. I watched him in two springs,” Saban said, via 247’s Mike Rodak. “This guy is a talented guy who is a playmaker who can make plays, and whether he’s ready to play now or not – obviously the coaches will determine that – he is going to be an outstanding player in the future.”
Surely, Russell will see the field more than he ever has this upcoming season — whether he wins the starting job or not. The Crimson Tide are set to kick off their season on September 5 against East Carolina.
Ethan Stone is a Tennessee graduate and loves all things college football and college basketball. Firm believer in fouling while up 3.
