Alabama’s QB Battle
The Crimson Tide face an interesting situation heading into the 2026 college football season regarding their quarterback battle.
On one hand, you have Austin Mack, a fourth-year senior who was recruited by and followed head coach Kalen DeBoer from Washington to Alabama. On the other hand, you have Keelon Russell, a five-star recruit entering his second year in the program. Russell is a phenomenal talent who possesses all the athletic traits of a modern-day quarterback. He also has the NIL backing that comes with being a highly touted recruit, which I believe could play a factor in Alabama’s decision on who starts this season.
As of right now, the only game film we have of both quarterbacks is from Alabama’s spring game.
After watching the spring game, I thought both quarterbacks played well. However, if I’m being honest, I thought Keelon Russell made some incredible throws and showcased more explosive playmaking ability, but he also made more mistakes than Austin Mack. I felt Russell’s poise in the pocket could have been better at times, and I noticed he was a little late on some of his reads.
While Russell provides the flashier upside, Austin Mack looked much more comfortable running the offense. Interestingly, that’s also how I view the situation off the field, particularly when it comes to NIL expectations and fan perception.
If Alabama doesn’t start Keelon Russell, many fans will likely be frustrated. The obvious question becomes: Why pursue a five-star quarterback and invest so heavily in him if he’s not going to play? That’s a fair argument. It could be viewed as a poor use of resources, and many fans naturally want to see the future of the program on the field.
However, the way I see it is simple: I believe Austin Mack is the better quarterback right now.
Mack is entering his fourth season under Kalen DeBoer, giving him years of familiarity with the offensive system and strong chemistry within the program. He’s also physically bigger than Russell, for whatever that’s worth. More importantly, after watching both quarterbacks in the spring game, Mack simply looked like the more confident and composed player.
It certainly won’t be an easy decision for Kalen DeBoer as Alabama prepares for Week 1, but based on what we’ve seen so far, I believe Austin Mack has earned the first opportunity to lead the Crimson Tide.
