The Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback battle is one of the most intriguing storylines across the nation with the 2026 college football season inching closer and closer. Alabama ent

The former UW quarterback just lost the battle for the starting job at Alabama.

Austin Mack might have NFL potential, but his opportunities to show it are dwindling after Keelon Russell was named the Tide's starter.

Nick Saban has seen his share of quarterback battles with Alabama football, from Jalen Hurts vs. Tua Tagovailoa to the three-man race between Ty Simpson, Tyler Buchner and Jalen Milroe. When it came to the decision Kalen DeBoer faces between Austin Mack and Keelon Russell, Saban said he doesn't have any inside scoop.

"Sources: Alabama has named Keelon Russell the team’s starting quarterback. He won the job on camp over Austin Mack," Thamel posted on X. "This decision fits the timeline that Kalen DeBoer preferred. They have two weeks of practice for Keelon Russell to operate as QB1 and hone the packages that highlight his dual-threat ability."