Where this Alabama QB has improved the most in spring practice

Photo comes via Kent Gidley of Alabama athletics

Scrimmage No. 2 was not the offensive fireshow we heard about in the first one, yet something promising did happen in the quarterback room.

Why Kalen DeBoer feels Alabama quarterbacks did not have a strong day in second scrimmage

Keelon Russell, a redshirt freshman, is in a major competition for the starting job. 

The former five-star from Duncanville (Texas) has elite potential, but can he do more than enough to be the clearcut leader over Austin Mack? Russell has some things to learn; however, he took a step in the right direction in Friday’s scrimmage. Kalen DeBoer highlighted an area where the former two-time high school state championship has improved the most in spring.

Russell has a better handle on the offensive system, including calling the plays.

“He is almost at the point now where he does not have to think when he says it,” DeBoer said about Russell’s ability to rattle off calls in the huddle. “He now has to slow down to make sure everyone is very clear, you know, which is a good problem to have.”

Alabama installed some new concepts in scrimmage two, so it is an aspect that everyone is learning.

The articulation of the process is not going to be perfect, but DeBoer loves the fact Russell has stepped up to do it and has the respect of his teammates in the offensive huddle. The game is starting to slow down some for him. 

Alabama freshman running back continues to be sidelined in spring practice

He worked in two games last year and showed promise with his arm talent and ability to extend plays.

Russell completed 11 of 15 passes for 143 yards and two touchdowns. 

It will be fun to watch him on A-Day to see if his growth continues.

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Stephen M. Smith is a team writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine.  You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.