The Alabama quarterback battle between Keelon Russell and Austin Mack is heating up after the Crimson Tide’s first fall camp scrimmage — and former Alabama national championship quarterback Jake Coker knows exactly what it’s like to fight for the starting job in Tuscaloosa.
On this episode of Last Call on The Next Round, Coker joins Mick Gillispie to break down Alabama Football’s biggest storylines coming out of the scrimmage, including the Russell vs. Mack QB competition, injuries in the running back room and the position battles that could shape Kalen DeBoer’s offense in 2026.
Coker explains what quarterbacks go through mentally during a heated competition and why blocking out fan expectations and outside noise is crucial. The guys also discuss whether Keelon Russell’s playmaking ability and athleticism could ultimately give him the edge over Austin Mack — and what Alabama’s coaches will be looking for before naming a starter.
The conversation also turns to a suddenly banged-up Alabama backfield. AK Dear’s injury adds another question mark, while freshman EJ Crowell has also missed time. That makes veteran Daniel Hill even more important as Alabama tries to reestablish the physical running game that has traditionally defined Crimson Tide football.
Plus, Jake and Mick discuss:
• Keelon Russell vs. Austin Mack after Alabama’s first scrimmage
• What Jake Coker learned from QB battles at Florida State and Alabama
• Why scrimmages feel completely different from actual games
• Whether Russell’s upside could win him the starting job
• The latest concerns surrounding AK Dear and EJ Crowell
• Daniel Hill’s transformation into a throwback Alabama power back
• Freshman Trae’shawn Brown making noise in the backfield
• Alabama’s battle at right guard
• Who can emerge as another weapon alongside Ryan Williams and Lotzeir Brooks
• Why fixing Alabama’s running game could be critical in 2026
Can Keelon Russell beat out Austin Mack for QB1, or will Mack’s experience in Kalen DeBoer’s system win out?
👍 Like the video if you enjoy Alabama Football coverage.
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#AlabamaFootball #RollTide #KeelonRussell #AustinMack #JakeCoker #CrimsonTide #KalenDeBoer #CollegeFootball #SECfootball #TheNextRound #LastCall
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