Alabama at Vanderbilt: 3 Key Questions in the Game Central Rundown
Alabama’s quarterback question
Alabama is making its final road trip of the season, but uncertainty at quarterback is a major focus ahead of the Vanderbilt game. Russell appeared as probable on Friday night’s availability report, while multiple reports indicated Mack was expected to start.
The Crimson Tide is favored by two touchdowns. Alabama will need a stronger rushing effort to ease the pressure on whichever quarterback takes the field.
Injuries on both rosters
Running back AK Dear was ruled out Friday night, along with seven other Alabama players. Tight end Josh Ford is among them and will miss the rest of the season after suffering a knee injury against LSU.
Five Alabama players were listed as probable: Russell, running back EJ Crowell, defensive backs Zabien Brown and Chuck McDonald, and offensive lineman William Sanders. Vanderbilt has eight players ruled out.
Vanderbilt aims to challenge
Alabama has had trouble containing individual opposing receivers this season. Vanderbilt’s Junior Sherrill is a key player to watch, while Alabama’s remaining tight ends will need to contribute as blockers and receiving options without Ford.
Conditions and game details
The forecast calls for sunny skies and temperatures in the high 40s near kickoff, making this Alabama’s coldest game of the season so far. The game will be carried by the Crimson Tide Sports Network. Chris Stewart will handle play-by-play, with Tyler Watts as color commentator, Damion Square on the sideline and Roger Hoover as host.
Key points
- Alabama is a two-touchdown favorite despite uncertainty about its starting quarterback.
- Multiple reports say Austin Mack is expected to start, although Keelon Russell was listed as probable.
- AK Dear is out, and Josh Ford will miss the rest of the season with a knee injury.
- Vanderbilt enters after its first SEC win and will look to spoil Alabama’s playoff push.