Alabama quarterback Keelon Russell is expected to sit out Saturday’s game against Vanderbilt due to an ankle injury sustained during a recent victory over LSU, “according to reports from ESPN.”
Austin Mack is slated to start in his place for the Crimson Tide during the team’s first trip to Nashville since 2024, “per the latest updates from USA Today.”
Russell suffered the injury during a 31-13 win against LSU, though he managed to return to the field briefly to throw three touchdown passes, “as documented by Alabama team statistics.”
Mack, who previously served as a backup after falling short of the starting job in 2026, has completed three of his four pass attempts for 23 yards across four appearances this season, “according to The Tuscaloosa News.”
Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer praised Mack’s preparation and professional approach during recent media availability.
“He is a great player,” DeBoer said regarding Mack’s development.
“Definitely should not be thinking of him as a guy who is just going to be a backup, because that is not how we think of him,” the coach added.
Mack followed DeBoer from Washington to Alabama after reclassifying early and signing with the Huskies, “as reported by local sports outlets.”
Despite the challenges of the quarterback competition, DeBoer emphasized that Mack has maintained a strong relationship with Russell throughout the season.
“He has a great relationship with Keelon and he has been out there supporting him already,” DeBoer noted.
The team prepares for the upcoming road challenge as Mack steps into the starting role, “according to official SEC football coverage.”