In Tuscaloosa on Saturday, the Crimson Tide opened the 2026 season with a dominant 48‑10 victory over East Carolina. Junior wide receiver Ryan Coleman‑Williams slipped on a wide‑open pass early in the game, but quickly recovered to post his fourth career 100‑yard performance, hauling in five receptions for 130 yards.
Coach DeBoer Highlights the Positive
Head coach Kalen DeBoer chose to focus on the good work rather than the single drop. “He went out there and made some contested catches, too. We’re going to keep feeding him. He’s a relentless worker and a captain for us,” DeBoer said. “We’re not going to shy away from going to Ryan.”
Quarterback Russell Praises His Top Target
New starting quarterback Keelon Russell echoed the coach’s optimism, emphasizing Coleman‑Williams’ character and resilience. “Ryan is a phenomenal player—on and off the field. A drop is not going to get in his head. He has a mindset of steel, and we’re keeping a 1‑0 mindset moving forward,” Russell told reporters after the game.
Looking Ahead
Alabama improves to 1‑0 on the season and will travel to Lexington, Kentucky, for its SEC opener against the Kentucky Wildcats on September 12. Kickoff is set for 2:30 p.m. CT on ABC.
Wyatt Fulton, the Tide’s 100.9 DME and brand manager, provided the coverage and can be followed on X at @FultonW_ for further updates on Alabama football.
Original reporting: The Tuscaloosa Thread — read the source article.
