Overview
- Coaches said the Keelon Russell–Austin Mack battle is still even after the first full scrimmage, and head coach Kalen DeBoer said he is no closer to naming a starter.
- Thursday’s scrimmage showed both quarterbacks improved as reps continued but struggled to start fast, and staff are weighing command, decision‑making and consistency rather than pure arm talent.
- The running back room took hits when sophomore AK Dear left with a lower‑leg injury expected to cost an extended absence and freshman EJ Crowell missed the scrimmage and will sit a few practices but is not expected to miss games.
- Wide receiver Lotzeir Brooks has missed multiple practices and did not scrimmage but is expected to be available for the regular season, and freshman corner Jorden Edmonds is reported to be out for a few weeks with a lower‑body issue, expanding depth concerns.
- Coaches praised the defensive line and secondary as early strengths, and staff say the Aug. 20 second scrimmage is the next key checkpoint to sort the QB race, offensive‑line combinations and roles before the Sept. 5 opener vs. East Carolina.