In need of his first quarterback commitment as Alabama’s coach, Kalen DeBoer turned to a Texas high school football district where the competition is so rugged, it’s known as the “District of Doom.”
There, DeBoer found a quarterback in full bloom.
Keelon Russell isn’t DeBoer’s first commitment at Alabama, but he might well be the one we remember most from his first class.
Quarterbacks are recruiting linchpins. Nick Saban knew how to pick ‘em. Saban’s quarterback signees included Bryce Young, Tua Tagovailoa, Mac Jones, AJ McCarron, Jalen Hurts and Jalen Milroe.
That’s a who’s who.
Rarely did Saban’s Crimson Tide rely on a transfer quarterback.
Recruiting ranked chief among Saban’s super skills, and DeBoer’s crootin’ chops will be scrutinized throughout his first season.
DeBoer entered pirate mode for his first act of Alabama quarterback recruiting. He plundered Russell, this treasured four-star commitment, from … SMU?!?
Yes, really.
Alabama’s new prized quarterback commitment previously planned to play for the Mustangs.
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The devil’s advocate in me would say raiding SMU’s recruiting class hardly mirrors Saban’s playbook, but that devil can shut his trap for a moment, because I’ve seen Russell’s highlight reel, I’ve reviewed his offer list, and I’ve read what the recruiting analysts say about him.
Russell’s flip is worth celebrating for Alabama.
SMU’s move to the ACC became a boon for its recruiting. The Mustangs previously boasted the nation’s 12th-ranked 2025 recruiting class. No longer, after Russell’s defection.
What Keelon Russell will bring to Alabama football
Dave Campbell’s Texas Football is the authority on football in the Lone Star State, and the publication ranks Russell as the state’s No. 1…
Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/alabama-football-coach-kalen-deboer-090725359.html
Author : The Tuscaloosa News
Publish date : 2024-06-07 09:07:25
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