Alabama expected to start QB Austin Mack, but Keelon Russell available

Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Austin Mack. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Alabama expected to start QB Austin Mack, but Keelon Russell available

By Pearson Gillam | Last updated Nov 13, 2026 7:32 PM ET

For the first time this season, Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Keelon Russell isn't expected be under center to start the game.

Russell suffered an ankle injury during the second half of last week’s victory over the LSU Tigers in Baton Rouge, where he played through the pain and completed 17 passes for 206 yards and three touchdowns.

The injury doesn’t appear to be severe, as Russell was listed as probable on the injury report ahead of Saturday’s matchup at Vanderbilt.

Russell has been one of the nation’s most prolific quarterbacks, ranking among the top three in the SEC in passing yards and passing touchdowns. But with a lighter schedule over the next three weeks, the Crimson Tide are expected to turn to backup quarterback Austin Mack.

Sources: Alabama is expected to start Austin Mack at quarterback against Vanderbilt on Saturday. Starter Keelon Russell (ankle) is expected to be available, but the expectation is the Tide staff holds him out and lets his ankle heal. Russell has been listed as probable. pic.twitter.com/9pxTdfyCeS
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) November 13, 2026

Who is Austin Mack?

Mack is a 6-foot-6 senior from Loomis, California. After not receiving any playing time during his freshman season at Washington, Mack followed coach Kalen DeBoer to Tuscaloosa.

Mack has seen limited action over the past three years, appearing briefly in seven games. His most recent outings came against East Carolina and Mississippi State this season, where he threw for a combined 23 yards and had one rushing touchdown.

The last time Alabama traveled to Nashville, it ended in disaster, with the top-ranked Crimson Tide losing 40-35 in 2024. While Mack’s time with DeBoer could help lead to success, Russell is expected to be available if things go sideways.

Pearson Gillam

I am a writer from Atlanta, Georgia, who attends Oklahoma State University. I am majoring in Sports Media and have experience covering the school's track and field team for the local newspaper. I have expertise in college football and college basketball, but I also enjoy the NFL, cross-country running, and track and field.

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