Alabama secures commitment from 4-star QB Keelon Russell, formerly committed to SMU

Alabama and their new head coach, Kalen DeBoer, successfully convinced highly-touted four-star quarterback Keelon Russell to switch his commitment from SMU to the Crimson Tide this Tuesday. Russell, hailing from Texas, is currently ranked 38th overall in the Class of 2025 and is positioned as the 6th best quarterback according to the 247Sports composite rankings. This marks Alabama’s first high school quarterback commitment since the appointment of DeBoer, who took over from the retired coaching legend, Nick Saban.

In an interview with ESPN, Russell revealed that the Alabama coaching staff outlined a clear trajectory for his college career in Tuscaloosa. “They laid out the spot for me on the depth chart — it’s something a quarterback dreams of,” Russell expressed to ESPN. “I felt like if I took the role that I could do some amazing things at high levels.”

Alabama’s quarterback depth chart for the 2024 season is led by Jalen Milroe, holding the No. 1 position. Additionally, rising sophomore Ty Simpson and two redshirt freshmen, Dylan Lonergan and Austin Mack, are also part of the roster. It’s worth noting that Alabama faced a setback when their 2024 quarterback commit, Julian Sayin, opted to flip his commitment to Ohio State earlier in the year.

This development signals a significant coup for Alabama, as they bolster their quarterback roster with the addition of Russell, a promising talent in the high school football scene. With DeBoer at the helm, Alabama appears poised to maintain their competitive edge in college football, with aspirations of continued success on the national stage.

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Kentucky Wildcats Football Preview: Key Players, Season Predictions, and Top Transfers

BY PETE FIUTAK, COLLEGE FOOTBALL NEWS | COLLEGE FOOTBALL ANALYSIS AND INSIGHTS

Kentucky Wildcats Preview for 2024: A Look Ahead

Kentucky’s football program has been steadily improving under the tenure of head coach Mark Stoops, boasting seven winning seasons in the last eight years within the competitive SEC. However, the Wildcats are now aiming to elevate their status by securing victories against stronger opponents and making a splash in the conference.

The Wildcats’ recent successes have been notable, including defeating Louisville and securing an impressive Citrus Bowl win over Iowa in 2021. However, they have faced challenges against top-tier teams, with several losses to opponents finishing with winning records.

Looking forward to the 2024 season, Kentucky is poised for potential breakthroughs. The team’s schedule features just four away games, although they are all formidable matchups against Ole Miss, Florida, Tennessee, and Texas. Nevertheless, the absence of powerhouse teams like Alabama and LSU provides a favorable landscape for the Wildcats.

The Kentucky offense is anchored by talented quarterback Brock Vandagriff, a dynamic playmaker with the potential to lead the team to success. With support from a solid offensive line and skilled receivers like Dane Key and Barion Brown, Vandagriff has the weapons to elevate the Wildcats’ scoring output.

On the defensive side, Kentucky boasts a formidable front line led by standout defensive tackle Deone Walker. The team’s run defense has been a strength in recent years, and with key contributors returning in the secondary, the Wildcats aim to maintain their defensive prowess.

Key games on the Wildcats’ schedule include a highly anticipated matchup against Georgia, offering an opportunity to end a 14-game losing streak against the Bulldogs. Additionally, road games against tough opponents like Ole Miss and Texas will test Kentucky’s resolve and determination.

Overall, Kentucky is primed for a successful season, with the potential to secure a winning record and contend for a spot in a prominent bowl game. With a favorable schedule and a talented roster, the Wildcats are ready to make their mark in the competitive landscape of college football.

This story was originally published on June 8, 2024, at 11:19 PM by The Arena Group Holdings, Inc. All rights reserved.