{
  "id": 19874009,
  "title": "Alabama Gets Unsettling Keelon Russell Update Before Vanderbilt Game",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/13/alabama-gets-unsettling-keelon-russell-update-before-vanderbilt-game",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-11-13T22:02:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Newsweek",
    "slug": "newsweek",
    "url": "https://www.newsweek.com/sports/ncaa/alabama-gets-unsettling-keelon-russell-update-before-vanderbilt-game-12713405"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Alabama faces a crucial decision as sophomore quarterback Keelon Russell's availability for Saturday's game against Vanderbilt remains uncertain. The On3 reports, citing Pete Nakos and Chris Low, that backup Austin Mack has received more first-team practice reps and could start if Russell is not fit to play. Russell sustained an ankle injury during Alabama's 31-13 victory at LSU but still managed to lead the game-winning effort. He completed 17 of 24 passes for 206 yards and three touchdowns, adding 25 rushing yards. Despite playing through the injury, Coach Kalen DeBoer says the situation remains day-to-day. DeBoer emphasized that the medical staff's assessment would play a significant role in determining Russell's availability. If healthy, Russell's performance this season, with 2,263 passing yards, 18 touchdowns, and five interceptions, along with 276 rushing yards and five rushing touchdowns, would make him a key factor in Alabama's season. Mack, however, has had limited game action, playing just 24 offensive snaps, according to Pro Football Focus. The outcome of this decision will be crucial as Alabama, currently ranked No. 3 in the College Football Playoff rankings, prepares to face Vanderbilt, who are 4-5 overall. Kickoff for the much-anticipated game is set for 11:45 a.m. CT on SEC Network.",
  "summary": "Keelon Russell is reportedly a game-time decision against Vanderbilt as Alabama gives Austin Mack more first-team reps.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}