Tuscaloosa, Ala. – On Saturday afternoon the University of Alabama football team began its 2026 campaign with a resounding 48‑10 victory over East Carolina. The win, witnessed by a packed crowd at Bryant‑Denny Stadium, gave the Tide a 1‑0 start under third‑year head coach Kalen DeBoer.
Run game shows major improvement
After a struggling ground attack in 2025, Alabama’s rushing offense looked markedly better. The team amassed 164 yards on the ground, averaging 4.7 yards per carry before the fourth quarter. Junior running back Daniel Hill displayed renewed elusiveness, scoring two touchdowns, while true‑freshmen Trae'shawn Brown and EJ Crowell each recorded their first career scores. The offensive line, featuring four new starters and a fifth man shifted to a new position, appeared more physical, a point emphasized by new line coach Adrian Klemm throughout the offseason.
Quarterback Keelon Russell shows promise
Freshman quarterback Keelon Russell made his first collegiate start and demonstrated the talent to become a top SEC signal‑caller. He threw for over 130 yards to leading receiver Ryan Coleman‑Williams and added a rushing touchdown. Russell took hits without flinching, but coaches noted he must work on sliding and staying in bounds to protect his health for the long season ahead.
Defense carries the Tide
Alabama’s defense proved its veteran depth, forcing five three‑and‑outs and limiting East Carolina to no drive longer than six plays. The Crimson Tide’s own offense went three‑and‑out only once, and the defense’s ability to shut down the Pirates helped secure a 38‑point margin despite six penalties and a turnover deficit.
Looking ahead
The Tide will travel to Lexington, Kentucky, next Saturday for their SEC opener against the Kentucky Wildcats. Kickoff is set for 2:30 p.m. CT on ABC.
Wyatt Fulton, the Tide’s 100.9 DME and brand manager, contributed the coverage and photos for this report.
Original reporting: The Tuscaloosa Thread — read the source article.
