Alabama football held its second spring scrimmage on Friday, just over a week before the annual A-Day game, signaling the end of spring practice. The team ran approximately 115 plays on Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium, with the first and second units each logging about 50 plays, while the third unit handled the remaining reps.
Head coach Kalen DeBoer emphasized the collaborative effort between the offense and defense during the scrimmage. He noted the focus was on achieving the desired looks in various situations and experimenting with player positioning. DeBoer highlighted the importance of substitution strategies and giving players the chance to perform in unfamiliar roles, as well as continuing quarterback development by rotating different groups, especially on defense to maintain freshness and flexibility.
The scrimmage wasn’t open to the public, but reports from sources in attendance provided insight into key takeaways. One major topic remains the ongoing quarterback competition. No clear frontrunner has emerged yet, which is unsurprising given the early point in the offseason. The depth chart, mostly based on experience, currently has Ty Simpson leading, followed by Austin Mack and then freshman Keelon Russell.
Simpson and Mack have been receiving most of the reps with the first and second units, while Russell has been working with the second and third teams. Though Russell has shown flashes of promise, the more experienced quarterbacks continue to get early opportunities. Mack impressed with some standout throws but also threw an interception, while Simpson delivered a solid performance, including a deep connection with senior receiver Germie Bernard. However, neither has definitively secured the starting role, keeping the competition wide open heading into A-Day and beyond.
Among the younger players, a few freshmen made strong impressions. Cornerback Dijon Lee, a highly rated recruit from California, showcased his playmaking instincts and capitalized on the extra reps made available due to Domani Jackson’s injury. Lee’s performance suggests he could make an early impact in a defense known for creating turnovers.
Even more eye-catching was freshman wide receiver Lotzeir Brooks, who earned significant praise for his play during the scrimmage, including scoring at least one touchdown. Despite competing in a talented and crowded receiver group, Brooks’ performance indicates he might carve out playing time as a freshman if he continues to stand out.
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