College football world reacts to Alabama naming Keelon Russell its starting quarterback

Keelon Russell was announced as the Alabama Crimson Tide’s starting quarterback on Saturday, and it created a lot of buzz.

Here is a look at several reactions from those in the college football circle:

Best thing to happen to Russell was to be pushed in camp and earn it. He was the more explosive player with the ability to create and make big plays going back to the spring. He only solidified his position this preseason. Big future ahead for him. https://t.co/ZiJmFswHdd

— Chris Low (@Clowfb) August 22, 2026

Will discuss this more tomorrow night

But Keelon Russell’s play and the team’s reaction to him made this decision very obvious to the staff

Special player https://t.co/Q23VDlA6Bf

— Josh Pate (@JoshPateCFB) August 22, 2026

Keelon Russell is an absolute stud…playmaker with the ball in his hands.

BUT….Can Alabama figure out how to run the ball?

Its top 3 RBs avg under 4.0 YPC last season, & Alabama ranked 125th in FBS in rush yards/game. https://t.co/m3g6mhxZYW

— Chase Daniel (@ChaseDaniel) August 22, 2026

I’m so pumped to watch this kid. I saw him play live in HS and he was very impressive! https://t.co/KZlSkjYtJi

— Daniel Jeremiah (@MoveTheSticks) August 22, 2026

The crowd pop in exactly 2 weeks in BDS when Keelon Russell is introduced as the starter over the PA system and video boards will register on the richter scale
pic.twitter.com/C1nwe8B7SS

— Barstool Bama (@BarstoolAlabama) August 22, 2026

Kamario Taylor vs Keelon Russell is an insanely talented QB matchup https://t.co/fw4H1jeC8c

— Tru Maroon Nation (@TruMaroonNation) August 22, 2026