RADIO
Keelon Russell, Austin Mack Battling for Alabama QB1 Duties
Alabama began spring practice on March 13, and the biggest story to watch is the starting quarterback battle between redshirt junior Austin Mack and redshirt freshman Keelon Russell. Whoever wins the job has big shoes to fill after Ty Simpson led the Crimson Tide to the SEC Championship Game and a College Football Playoff win behind 3,567 passing yards, 28 touchdowns, and five interceptions. He thrived for most of the season despite Alabama lacking a true rushing attack. Mack has more experience and has worked under Kalen DeBoer and Ryan Grubb for longer, dating back to his time at Washington, but Russell is a former big-time recruit with elite athleticism. Mack might be the safer play, but Russell is viewed as having a higher ceiling. Alabama once again has one of the most talented rosters in college football, so DeBoer nailing the starting quarterback decision could be the difference between legitimately contending for a national championship or just being a fringe CFP contender.
Source: Nick Kelly - AL.com
Source: Nick Kelly - AL.com
