Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning Keelon Russell across Football.
The Crimson Tide arrive after a 48‑10 win over East Carolina, while Kentucky looks to build on a 45‑13 victory under new head coach Will Stein; the matchup airs nationally on ABC and streams on ESPN+ and Disney+.
Kentucky’s quest for its first win over Alabama in 25 years meets a Crimson Tide squad navigating a quarterback debut and coaching transition, all under the shadow of a 296‑game AP Top 25 streak.
Ranked No. 13 in the preseason AP poll, Alabama opens its 2026 season on Saturday against East Carolina, a game that will test a new-look offensive line and a freshman quarterback’s ability to lead the offense.
Week 2 AP Top 25 poll shows LSU climbing to No. 11 after a 51‑10 win over Clemson, Oregon dropping to No. 2 after a loss to Boise State, while Alabama, Ole Miss and other programs make notable moves.
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.
The 2026 SEC opener pits Alabama against Kentucky at Kroger Field, a matchup that could test Alabama's dominance and showcase Kentucky's rapid transformation under new leadership.
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.
Georgia, LSU, and Oklahoma posted flawless shutouts, while Oregon and Texas Tech struggled to meet expectations in a varied opening week.
The opening weekend reshaped the 2026 Top 25, with Ohio State, Notre Dame and Miami leading the pack while standout individual performances and dominant team efforts set the tone for a compelling season.
High‑profile victories, controversial calls and emerging storylines defined the first week of the 2026 season, featuring dramatic finishes, key player debuts and early implications for the playoff picture.
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.
The Crimson Tide, ranked No. 13, will host East Carolina on Saturday as sophomore quarterback Keelon Russell makes his first start under head coach Kalen DeBoer.
The Alabama Crimson Tide boasts the nation's top quarterback pairing, with Keelon Russell's accuracy and Austin Mack's dynamic playmaking driving a surge in performance and optimism for the upcoming season.
CBS Sports identifies Alabama as one of two overrated SEC teams for 2026, citing a weak offensive line, limited returning starters, and a challenging schedule.
Opening week of high school football delivered unexpected defeats for several nationally ranked teams, highlighting the season’s volatility.
The Alabama Crimson Tide enter 2026 with a revamped roster, a new coach and a demanding SEC schedule, setting the stage for a season that could reshape their national destiny.
Three Alabama freshmen earn Shaun Alexander Award watch list honors as the Crimson Tide prepare for a high‑profile 2026 season.
The Maxwell Football Club has released its initial watch list for the 2026 Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year Award, recognizing three Alabama newcomers who are already making waves in the recruiting rankings.
Joel Klatt predicts a 10‑2 finish for Alabama, projecting a final playoff berth and a Rose Bowl showdown with Indiana despite a tough schedule and a first‑year quarterback.
The 2026 quarterback class blends returning starters with high‑profile transfers, offering a mix of proven talent and uncertain newcomers. Injuries, offensive line stability and early‑season tests will determine which names rise to the top.
USA TODAY Sports places Alabama at ninth nationally, ahead of Ole Miss and Texas A&M, as the program navigates quarterback battles, injury recoveries and a demanding SEC schedule.
Alabama has named redshirt freshman Keelon Russell as its starting quarterback for the 2026 season, positioning him against Georgia's Gunner Stockton in a clash that recalls the Bryce Young saga.