Alabama football quarterback Keelon Russell drew lots of attention ahead of his starting debut. Here’s how he fared.
Alabama football turned the offensive reins over to Keelon Russell for the first time ever. The dual-threat quarterback entered Bryant-Denny Stadium gathering the most watchful eyes before facing East Carolina. This time he manned the position that produced countless of first rounders including his predecessor Ty Simpson.
Russell left showing he was beyond prepared for the moment. He completed 17-of-29 passes for 249 yards, while adding 86 rushing through 13 carries. And he turned to his legs to score this rushing scamper.
38 first-half points.
Welcome to the Keelon Russell Experience. pic.twitter.com/fVEvXK2EJM
— Blake Krass (@BlakeyLocks) September 5, 2026
But he impressed throwing on the run too, hitting this long strike to experienced wide receiver Ryan Coleman-Williams.
KEELON RUSSELL TO RYAN COLEMAN-WILLIAMS pic.twitter.com/cyuzD4Pbrw
— NFL Draft Files (@NFL_DF) September 5, 2026
Russell executed multiple explosive plays as his Crimson Tide rolled to a 48-10 trouncing of the Pirates. Though Alabama put the game away in the second quarter, outscoring ECU 28-7 in that sequence. Russell scored his rushing scamper late in that period too.
Saturday presented Russell with another first: A chance to form the next best QB/WR duo at Alabama. He entered the historic venue seeking to build a rapport with Coleman-Williams, who walked in overhearing NFL Draft hype.
Coleman-Williams needed to overcome early drops, though, including a costly one in the end zone. But the wideout delivered 130 receiving yards on five catches on the afternoon.
Russell made this vow with reporters after claiming the 38-point rout.
“At the end of the season, you’re going to be looking at the best duo in the country,” Russell told reporters after the win.
The newest starter behind center got eight different Alabama wideouts involved with the offense. Now Russell will receive his first taste of SEC play next Saturday against Kentucky.
Alabama football turned the offensive reins over to Keelon Russell for the first time ever. The dual-threat quarterback entered Bryant-Denny Stadium gathering the most watchful eyes before facing East Carolina. This time he manned the position that produced countless of first rounders including his predecessor Ty Simpson.