ESPN.com · 24m
Sources: Tide to start QB Mack vs. Vandy; injured Russell available, if needed
No. 3 Alabama is expected to start quarterback Austin Mack at Vanderbilt on Saturday as Keelon Russell deals with the lingering effects of an ankle injury, sources told ESPN's Pete Thamel.
Russell, who has started every game this season and been one of the most impactful quarterbacks in the country, is expected to be available off the bench, sources told ESPN. The expectation, however, is that Russell will be held out to let the injury heal, sources said.
He suffered the ankle injury during the second half of last week's win at LSU. He got the ankle wrapped and played through the pain.
