Alabama defeats South Carolina 49-18 behind Keelon Russell's five touchdowns

No. 8 Alabama defeated South Carolina 49-18 at Bryant-Denny Stadium, improving their record to 4-0 and 2-0 in SEC play. Sophomore quarterback Keelon Russell delivered a standout performance, recording 365 passing yards and four touchdowns, along with a rushing touchdown. Russell became the first Alabama quarterback since Tua Tagovailoa in 2018 to record at least 300 passing yards, three passing touchdowns, and a rushing touchdown in consecutive games.

Alabama established a dominant 35-3 lead by halftime, aided by a pick-six from Red Morgan. South Carolina's LaNorris Sellers contributed a touchdown pass to Nyck Harbor, but the Gamecocks struggled to maintain momentum against the Crimson Tide offense. Following the game, South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer announced the indefinite suspension of star pass rusher Dylan Stewart, noting the disciplinary action was due to an incident involving a punch thrown at Alabama tight end Josh Ford.

With this victory, Alabama moves to No. 7 in the Coaches Poll. The team is scheduled to face Mississippi State next week.