Legendary Alabama quarterback gives advice to Keelon Russell before first start

AJ McCarron, who is a former Alabama quarterback, decided to send Keelon Russell some advice on “The Dynasty” podcast.

Russell is set to enter his first year as the Crimson Tide’s starting quarterback this fall. He will make his first career start against East Carolina on Sept. 5. McCarron feels it is important Russell plays free and relax on Saturday against the Pirates.

“They went with him for a reason,” McCarron said. “I think the only way it doesn’t work out for him and he gets replaced is multiple games into the season, and it’s just not going well, like say, I mean, even maybe second week Kentucky, we go in at halftime, we’re down, maybe they make a change then. Um, but other than that, go out, play free. Like just be yourself. Take care of the football. Don’t try to make the game more than what it is. It doesn’t have to be anything special. You don’t have to go out and try to win the Heisman or prove anything week one. Don’t put too much on this kid. Don’t ask him to go win the National Championship game one, let him grow organically throughout this process, and I think he’s gonna be great though.”

The Crimson Tide and Pirates will go to battle at 11 a.m. CT on Saturday. The game will be broadcasted on ABC.