Alabama football OC Ryan Grubb hits Keelon Russell with brutal warning despite impressive debut

As Alabama football quarterback Keelon Russell got his first win as a starter for the program against East Carolina on Saturday, 48-10, he provided a standout performance. While the Alabama football star played in his first career start and impressed, offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb would send a warning to the sophomore signal-caller.

Speaking on Monday to the media, Grubb highlighted Russell’s rushing ability, taking slight issue with his instinct, especially when exposing himself to more hits.

“‘Oh my God, this guy …’ Alabama OC Ryan Grubb said when asked about Keelon Russell’s instinct to take off and run more than they’d like for him to expose himself to those hits,” Michael Casagrande wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

In the blowout win, Russell threw for 256 yards to go along with 86 yards on the ground on 13 carries with a touchdown, and while that aspect of his game is beneficial, Grubb emphasized that they’re working on sliding.

“We’re working on sliding…The off-platform is an absolute blessing that he’s able to do it,” Grubb said, via Charlie Potter. “If he runs around like that every week, it’s going to be a long year for him.”

Alabama football’s Kalen DeBoer says the “sky’s the limit” with starter 

While there is room to grow for Russell, who beat out Austin Mack this offseason in the Crimson Tide’s quarterback battle, there’s no denying the talent the starter possesses. Alabama football head coach Kalen DeBoer would highlight his performance, saying that the “sky’s the limit for him,” per ESPN.

“He’s a tough guy to defend,” DeBoer said after Saturday’s win. “I thought he took advantage of his ability. It allowed us to open up the playbook.”

“I’m very hopeful we can be a complete offense,” DeBoer said. “It starts with your quarterback. We’ve always been quarterback-driven by what we can do. I think the sky’s the limit for him.”

At any rate, it remains to be seen if Russell will take Grubb’s advice, as Week 2 has the Crimson Tide facing off against the University of Kentucky on Saturday, Sept. 12.

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