Bama makes last-second call to start Russell after QB fine in warmups

No. 3 Alabama made a last-second decision to start Keelon Russell against Vanderbilt on Saturday after the quarterback looked better than anticipated in pregame warmups.

The Crimson Tide were expected to start Austin Mack against the Commodores after Russell was hampered throughout the week by lingering effects of an ankle injury. Mack took first-team reps in practice under the premise that he'd be starting on Saturday.

Russell, who has started every game this season and been one of the most impactful quarterbacks in the country, was expected to be available off the bench to let the injury heal, but he took equal reps with Mack in pregame warmups before the decision ultimately was made that…