Alabama will start quarterback Austin Mack against Vanderbilt on Saturday, as reported by ESPN’s Pete Thamel.
Quarterback Change Due to Injury
Quarterback Keelon Russell has started every game for the Crimson Tide this season, but he will be held out due to an ankle injury he suffered in the second half of a 31-13 victory against the LSU Tigers. The sophomore will be available off the bench in case of emergency, according to ESPN.
Mack started his collegiate career in Washington before following head coach Kalen DeBoer to Tuscaloosa. He was beat out by Russell for the starting position in fall camp after former quarterback Ty Simpson’s departure for the NFL Draft.
Looking Ahead in the SEC
Although Russell could likely play in Alabama’s upcoming game, they are probably allowing his ankle to heal for the bigger games that lie ahead. Alabama could face the Georgia Bulldogs in the SEC championship game. Georgia currently leads the SEC with a 6-1 conference record, while Alabama and Tennessee are tied at 5-2.
Russell has been among the most productive quarterbacks in college football this season. He has completed 67.3 percent of his passes for 2,263 yards with 18 touchdowns and five interceptions. He has also added 276 rushing yards and five touchdowns on the ground.
