Overview
- Starter Ty Simpson handled the first half and went 11-for-16 for 147 yards with two interceptions before giving way to backups.
- True freshman Keelon Russell finished 7-of-9 for 78 yards with 16 rushing yards, completed his lone deep attempt, and went 3-for-3 under pressure per PFF.
- Austin Mack completed all five passes for 45 yards and added a 20-yard rushing touchdown, with all attempts coming from clean pockets.
- Coaches praised the progress of both quarterbacks and credited deliberate rep allocation by Nick Sheridan and Ryan Grubb for their readiness.
- Analysts noted the FCS context limits firm conclusions, while Alabama’s defense allowed just 34 yards and two first downs as attention turns to the Iron Bowl and longer-term QB decisions.