Alabama is expected to start quarterback Austin Mack against Vanderbilt, with Keelon Russell’s ankle status still being evaluated. Multiple reports say Russell is likely to be available in some capacity if needed, while Mack prepares for his first college start.

Outlets frame the decision around managing Russell’s injury and giving Mack more first-team time. ESPN and The Athletic both report that Mack will start and that Russell could be used if circumstances require it. CBS Sports adds that the team is sitting Russell to allow his ankle additional time to heal, despite his listing as probable.

Newsweek characterizes the situation as more uncertain, describing Russell as a game-time decision. Across the coverage, the central focus remains the same quarterback change for the Vanderbilt matchup, with differences mainly in how firmly each outlet phrases Russell’s likelihood to play.