The Alabama Crimson Tide had its first full pads scrimmage of fall camp on Thursday afternoon, and all anyone wants to hear about is the quarterback race between Keelon Russell and Austin Mack.
According to some post-scrimmage intel from Pete Nakos of On3, it sounds like former five-star sophomore Russell was the one who impressed more so than Kalen DeBoer system veteran Austin Mack, with the playmaking ability being a factor that sticks out.
NEW: On3's @PeteNakos has the latest on Alabama's Austin Mack vs. Keelon Russell QB1 battle🎯
The Tide held its first scrimmage today, and one quarterback was the most notable.
Intel: https://t.co/qjM4SeLUwE pic.twitter.com/En3z36yCfs
— On3 (@On3) August 13, 2026
“Sources who watched Thursday’s scrimmage said both quarterbacks had strong moments, but it was the former five-star recruit Russell who was making plays,” Nakos wrote. “With Alabama still working through some preseason challenges with its offensive line, Russell’s ability to stretch plays with his legs has been evident, sources told On3. One source told On3 that Russell looked like a ‘stud’ at Thursday’s scrimmage. The second-year quarterback threw multiple touchdowns and also had an interception.”
Back in the Crib 🏟️
BTS at Bama Fall Camp: Presented by @TMobile. Best network in the game. Best network in America. pic.twitter.com/gkHGRWHhND
— Alabama Football (@AlabamaFTBL) August 14, 2026
For what it’s worth, during his press conference after the scrimmage, DeBoer did tell media he is not any closer to making a decision. His statement comes on the heels of offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb describing things as “even” between the two signal callers.
It seems the staff is giving the younger Russell every opportunity to take the job and perhaps he has not quite done that beyond a shadow of a doubt just yet, but things might be trending that way. With just a few weeks to go until the season, this is the biggest decision DeBoer has had to make during his time as Alabama’s head coach.
Russell is going to need to keep on stacking days if he wants to prove he is in fact the man for the job.
Michael Brauner is a Senior Sports Analyst and Contributing Writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @MBraunerWNSP and hear him every weekday morning from 6 to 9 a.m. on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5, available free online.
