Alabama starts Austin Mack against Vanderbilt while Keelon Russell sits out
No. 3 Alabama will start quarterback Austin Mack against Vanderbilt this Saturday as injured starter Keelon Russell remains on the bench to heal his ankle.
Quarterback change confirmed for game
Sources told ESPN that sophomore Austin Mack will take the field at Vanderbilt. Keelon Russell, who started every game this season, is expected to be available off the bench but will not play. An ankle injury occurred to him in the final period of his victory against LSU last week. This Texas sophomore has completed the season with 2,263 passing yards, 18 touchdowns, and five interceptions.
Injury report and betting line shift
Alabama designated Russell as a probable participant on their official injury list following the defeat against LSU. CBS Sports noted that the betting line moved one point in Vanderbilt's direction following the news. Mack is a junior backup who has appeared in spot duty previously. He completed three of four passes for 23 yards this season under coach Kalen DeBoer.
Next opponents and championship hopes
If Alabama wins, they will face Chattanooga at home next week to rest Russell further. The Tide plans to ensure his ankle has extra time to heal before the Iron Bowl. They hope to shift attention to the final SEC Championship Game with Russell at full strength. In his third season at Tuscaloosa, Mack is well acquainted with the offense.
All 2 outlets report consistently
No differences in figures, names or dates across these reports.
- ESPN
- CBS Sports
Reported by
2 independent outlets. Headlines as published. Links open the original report.