Quarterback Keelon Russell debuted as Alabama’s starter on Sept. 5, 2026, rushing for 86 yards and a touchdown to break a school single-game rushing record for a Crimson Tide quarterback making his first career start. The former five-star recruit out of Duncanville, Texas, helped lead the 11th-ranked Crimson Tide to a 48-10 victory over East Carolina at Bryant-Denny Stadium.
Keelon Russell Sets Alabama Rushing Record in Debut
Russell finished the afternoon with 86 rushing yards and a touchdown on 13 carries, surpassing Jalen Milroe’s previous program record of 81 rushing yards for a quarterback making his first career start, which Milroe set during a 24-20 win over Texas A&M on Oct. 8, 2022, as noted by WVUA-TV’s Theodore Fernandez. Russell accumulated 342 total yards of offense, completing 18 of 30 passes for 256 yards with no passing touchdowns or interceptions. He scored his rushing touchdown on a three-yard run just before halftime, capping a 28-point second quarter that gave Alabama a 38-7 lead at intermission.
Kalen DeBoer Evaluates Quarterback’s First Start
Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer praised Russell’s instincts and playmaking ability following the win. DeBoer highlighted the quarterback’s knack for “taking off and going and making plays” while balancing it with keeping his eyes downfield. DeBoer noted that Russell’s poise when “the bullets are flying” is impressive, though he emphasized that the coaching staff will work on eliminating wasted plays and improving game management urgency before the next matchup. DeBoer remarked that the team has “always been quarterback driven” and believes the ceiling is high for the freshman.
Crimson Tide Offense Dominates East Carolina
The Crimson Tide offense totaled 487 yards and secured 28 first downs compared to just five for East Carolina, according to the article. Wide receiver Ryan Coleman-Williams contributed five receptions for 130 yards, featuring a 58-yard catch early in the second quarter. Behind Russell’s team-high 86 rushing yards, running back Daniel Hill added 47 yards and two touchdowns on nine carries, while freshman EJ Crowell chipped in 37 yards and a touchdown on seven touches.
Upcoming SEC Opener at Kentucky
With a 1-0 record established, Alabama shifts its focus to the road for Week 2. The Crimson Tide travels to Lexington to face the Kentucky Wildcats in an SEC conference opener scheduled for Sept. 12 at Kroger Field, airing on ABC.
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