FSU Football Gets Major QB News Ahead of One of Its Biggest Games

Florida State began last season with a statement, knocking off then-No. 8 Alabama, 31-17, inside Doak Campbell Stadium.

When the Seminoles travel to Tuscaloosa, Alabama, on September 19 to complete the home-and-home series, they will see a new face under center for the Crimson Tide.

ESPN’s Pete Thamel reported Saturday that Alabama has named sophomore Keelon Russell its starting quarterback after he beat out senior Austin Mack during fall camp.

"Alabama has named Keelon Russell the team’s starting quarterback. He won the job in camp over Austin Mack."

Sources: Alabama has named Keelon Russell the team’s starting quarterback. He won the job on camp over Austin Mack. pic.twitter.com/ckgiQ4JEoS
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) August 22, 2026

FSU Set to Face Keelon Russell in Alabama Rematch

Aug. 6, 2026; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Quarterback Keelon Russell throws a pass during the Alabama Crimson Tide’s first open practice session. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

Russell arrived in Tuscaloosa as a unanimous five-star prospect and one of the highest-rated members of the 2025 recruiting class.

The 6-foot-3, 207-pound sophomore saw limited action behind Ty Simpson last season, completing 11 of 15 passes for 143 yards and two touchdowns across appearances against ULM and Eastern Illinois.

Despite his limited experience, Russel beat out a senior in Mack, who followed Kalen DeBoer from Washington and served as Alabama’s primary backup last season. Neither quarterback has started a game at the college level.

The Seminoles Will Have Early Film on Alabama’s New Quarterback

Apr 11, 2026; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Keelon Russell (12) looks for a receiver during the Alabama A-Day spring football scrimmage game at Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Leong-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Russell will have two chances to settle into the role before facing the Seminoles.

Alabama opens its season against East Carolina on September 5, before Russell is expected to make his first road start against Kentucky, giving FSU defensive coordinator Tony White a brief look at his film. The Duncanville, Texas, native should be more comfortable by the time the teams meet, but he will no longer be a complete unknown.

Despite Florida State’s victory last season and Alabama’s transition behind center, DraftKings Sportsbook lists the Crimson Tide as a 15.5-point favorite in the rematch.

Alabama recovered from its season-opening loss in Tallahassee, Florida, in 2025, finishing 11-4 and reaching the SEC Championship Game before its postseason run ended against No. 1 Indiana.

When the Seminoles travel to the Yellowhammer State, it will mark their first trip to Tuscaloosa since Alabama earned an 8-7 victory in October 1974, and FSU will enter Bryant-Denny Stadium seeking to snap a road losing streak dating back to the 2023 season.

Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.

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