{
  "id": 2617480,
  "title": "Alabama Makes Early Decision on Starting Quarterback",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/22/alabama-makes-early-decision-on-starting-quarterback",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-22T17:36:25.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Newsweek",
    "slug": "newsweek",
    "url": "https://www.newsweek.com/sports/ncaa/alabama-makes-early-decision-on-starting-quarterback-12354333"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Alabama Crimson Tide have made an early decision on their starting quarterback for the 2023 season. Keelon Russell has been named the starter, beating out Austin Mack in the competition during the final stretch of training camp. This choice aligns with head coach Kalen DeBoer's preference to have his starter settled into a routine before the regular season kicks off against East Carolina on September 5th.\n\nWhile Mack received more experience behind Ty Simpson in the previous season, who was drafted by the Los Angeles Rams, Russell showed his dual-threat capabilities. He threw for 143 yards and two touchdowns compared to Mack's 228 yards and two touchdowns.\n\nCoach DeBoer's decision highlights Russell's prowess as a runner, a crucial aspect for Alabama's offense that struggled last season. Russell was projected to see more playtime as a runner with his selection as the starter. Mack will serve as a valuable backup option for a team eyeing to return to the College Football Playoff, currently ranked No. 13.",
  "summary": "The Alabama Crimson Tide are ending their quarterback competition two weeks before the start of the season.",
  "key_points": [
    "Alabama Crimson Tide name Keelon Russell as starting QB for 2023 season",
    "Keelon Russell outperformed Austin Mack in final training camp competition",
    "Russell's selection emphasizes his dual-threat abilities and running prowess"
  ],
  "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."
}