Keelon Russell shows off dual-threat ability as No. 13 Alabama handles East Carolina 48-10

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (AP) — Keelon Russell accounted for 335 yards and a touchdown, and No. 13 Alabama opened the season with a 48-10 victory over East Carolina on Saturday.

Russell, a sophomore making his first career start after beating out Austin Mack during training camp, ran for 86 yards and a score. He also threw for 249 yards, including 130 of those to Ryan Coleman-Williams.

Coleman-Williams dropped two passes in the second quarter, but Alabama coach Kalen DeBoer says his big bounce back is indicative of the trust they have in the newly named team captain.

“Yeah, he went out there, made some contested catches too,” DeBoer said. “You know we’re gonna keep feeding him. He’s a relentless worker, and he’s gonna keep getting the ball.”

Russell also showed why Alabama entrusted him with the offense. His ability to escape pressure and create plays with his legs was apparent from the opening drive when he broke free from pressure for a 23-yard run.

“I think he’s just a tough guy to defend,” DeBoer said. “I thought he took advantage of his ability.”

Russell directed five consecutive scoring drives to start the game, and Alabama (1-0) finished with 480 yards and 27 first downs.

The Crimson Tide, who ranked 15th in the Southeastern Conference in rushing last season, totaled 227 yards on the ground.

East Carolina (0-1) managed just 162 yards and five first downs. The Pirates were 0 for 9 on third down and gained 2 yards on 22 carries.

Mitch Griffis completed 10 of 16 passes for 137 yards, with a touchdown and an interception. For Alabama’s defense, the 2 rushing yards are the fewest they have allowed against an FBS opponent since Mississippi State had (minus)-1 in 2021.

Russell made a few mistakes, including a fumble in the third quarter. But he ended up with more positives than negatives, including connecting with Coleman-Williams for a 58-yard gain.

“I think there were some operational things pre-snap that caused us to use timeouts,” DeBoer said. “But it was to be expected. And I think he got better as the game went on.”

The takeaway

East Carolina: The Pirates scored their lone touchdown after Griffis connected with Tyler Johnson for a 66-yard gain to the Alabama 1. Jeremiah Melvin scored on the next play.

Alabama: The Tide overcame some early execution issues while Russell displayed his dual-threat ability in his starting debut.

Up next

East Carolina hosts Appalachian State next Saturday.

Alabama opens SEC play at Kentucky next Saturday.

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