Alabama · SECDeBoer Won't Shrink The Offense For Keelon Russell's First Start
Alabama's new starter debuts Sept. 5 against East Carolina, and DeBoer's message is progressions and ball security — not a smaller playbook.
AUG 28, 2026
Kalen DeBoer isn't planning to change Alabama's offense for Keelon Russell's first career start against East Carolina on Sept. 5.
Russell, who won the job over Austin Mack, will be allowed to play to his strengths while being reminded to protect the football.
"You don’t want to change Keelon from what he is and what has made him successful," DeBoer said. "You want to utilize those strengths that he has."
DeBoer's instruction is to stay within the offense, take open receivers and avoid forcing big plays. Ryan Grubb will call the plays.
"Don’t bypass a guy that’s open in your progression because you think or you want to go and make a big play," DeBoer said. "Those plays will come."