Alabama expected to start Austin Mack at Vanderbilt
Keelon Russell is expected to be available, but Alabama plans to rest his injured ankle while turning to Mack.
| Kickoff | 12:45 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Venue | FirstBank Stadium |
| Spread | Alabama -14 |
| Total | 47.5 |
| TV | SEC Network |
|---|---|
| Streaming | the ESPN app |
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Follow the full play-by-play and box score →No. 3 Alabama is expected to start Austin Mack at quarterback Saturday against Vanderbilt, ESPN’s Pete Thamel reported. The Crimson Tide plans to hold out Keelon Russell so his injured ankle can heal, although he is expected to be available.
Russell has been listed as probable on both SEC availability reports this week after injuring his ankle against LSU. He did not miss a snap in Baton Rouge and led Alabama to three touchdowns in a 31-13 victory.
On3’s Pete Nakos reported that Mack received more first-team practice repetitions this week. Mack has played in four games this season, completing 3 of 4 passes for 23 yards while adding one rushing touchdown.
Mack is in his third season at Alabama after following coach Kalen DeBoer from Washington. His most extensive action came in last year’s Rose Bowl, when he completed 11 of 16 passes for 103 yards after Ty Simpson suffered broken ribs.
DeBoer called Russell day-to-day Monday and said Alabama has confidence in Mack if a quarterback change becomes necessary. Russell’s health and the medical staff’s guidance would factor into the decision, DeBoer said, along with whether Russell could perform well enough to help Alabama win.
Why it matters
Alabama is preparing to change starting quarterbacks while Russell’s ankle heals. Mack has attempted four passes this season, making his increased first-team practice work a key part of the Tide’s preparation.
What to watch next
No. 3 Alabama faces Vanderbilt on Saturday, Nov. 14, at 11:45 a.m. CT on SEC Network.
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