
Keelon Russell’s Explosive Debut Sets Tone for Alabama
In a commanding 48-10 win over East Carolina, Russell dazzled with his arm and legs, establishing a new Alabama record for rushing yards by a rookie starter.
Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning Daniel Hill across Football, Baseball.

In a commanding 48-10 win over East Carolina, Russell dazzled with his arm and legs, establishing a new Alabama record for rushing yards by a rookie starter.

Alabama's 48-10 win over East Carolina showcased a balanced attack, a stout defense, and promising performances from sophomore quarterback Keelon Russell, wide receiver Ryan Coleman-Williams, and return specialist Daniel Hill.

In their 2026 season opener, Alabama rolled past East Carolina 48-10, marking the 25th straight home‑opening victory and improving their all‑time record to 86‑11‑2. Quarterback Keelon Russell debuted with 342 total yards, while the rushing game and defense added further fireworks.

Russell's 249 passing yards and 89 rushing yards highlighted a 38-7 halftime lead, despite early fumbles that tested his poise.

Alabama’s revamped rushing attack and poised quarterback play secured a victory, even as the defense faced a costly turnover.

Alabama’s 2026 depth chart reveals intense quarterback battles, a deep running back group, and key additions on both sides of the ball as fall camp approaches.

Despite finishing 125th in rushing yards last year, Alabama's coaching staff and players are optimistic about a turnaround, highlighting new additions, returning talent, and a reshaped depth chart.
With the Crimson Tide halfway through fall camp, position battles at quarterback, running back, receiver and defensive spots are intensifying as the team prepares for its season‑opening game against East Carolina on September 5.
With key backs sidelined and a late signing change, Alabama's rushing corps hinges on the readiness of newcomer Trae'shawn Brown and the strategic vision of GM Courtney Morgan.
With key backs sidelined and a high‑profile recruit flipping to Illinois, Alabama’s backfield is thin, prompting GM Courtney Morgan to rely on emerging talent like Trae'shawn Brown and a deep‑pocketed compensation package.

Alabama Crimson Tide running back AK Dear will be sidelined for an extended period after a lower‑leg injury sustained during fall camp, though the setback is not season‑ending. His absence reshapes the backfield for the opening game against East Carolina.

Alabama’s offense is poised for a dramatic transformation as running back Daniel Hill and offensive tackle Jackson Lloyd headline Bruce Feldman’s annual ‘freaks list,’ bringing unprecedented athleticism and depth to a unit seeking balance and national relevance.

Bruce Feldman’s annual Freaks List highlights four Alabama players whose extraordinary strength, speed, and athleticism signal a promising 2026 season.
Ezavier 'EJ' Crowell overcame a soft‑tissue setback to burst onto Alabama’s practice field, delivering a 4.32‑second 40‑yard dash and four touchdowns in a recent shutout, signaling a potential revival of the program’s run game.
Alabama's top-ranked freshman running back, Ezavier 'EJ' Crowell, is already reshaping expectations for the Crimson Tide's offense with his blend of speed, size and work ethic.
Alabama’s top-ranked 2026 running back, Ezavier 'EJ' Crowell, returns from a injury-plagued freshman season with the aim of becoming the centerpiece of the Crimson Tide’s ground attack.
With the 2026 season looming, Alabama's coaching staff is weighing the physicality of senior Austin Mack against the dual‑threat versatility of sophomore Keelon Russell, a decision that will shape the team's early schedule.
Freshman sensation EJ Crowell and veteran Daniel Hill headline a revamped ground game, backed by a unified offensive line and a coaching philosophy that prizes effort and precision.

Ryan Grubb and new offensive line coach Klemm are focused on revitalizing Alabama’s run game, with Daniel Hill and a quarterback competition between Keelon Russell and Austin Mack highlighted, while financial constraints from the NCAA settlement add complexity to player eligibility decisions.

Alabama’s fall camp third session showcased offensive versatility and defensive intensity, with standout performances from newcomers and increased NFL interest.
Coach Kalen DeBoer leads Alabama with a quiet, accountability‑driven philosophy as the Crimson Tide gear up for a challenging 2026 schedule.
During Alabama’s first fall practice, head coach Kalen DeBoer observed running back EJ Crowell performing without pads, praising his explosiveness and execution. With a standout high school career and a deep backfield, Crowell aims to make an immediate impact as the team opens the 2026 season against East Carolina.
The Tide opens fall camp on August 5, 2026, setting the stage for a September 5 season opener against East Carolina. Early practices highlight competition at quarterback, running back, wide receiver and other key positions.

ESPN’s Heather Dinich ranks Alabama 17th among 31 teams for the 2026 College Football Playoff, citing a challenging schedule, an unsettled quarterback battle and a pivotal Oct. 10 matchup against Georgia as key factors shaping the Crimson Tide’s postseason chances.