Alabama: The New Era Begins
In Tuscaloosa, the post-dynasty era under coach Kalen DeBoer hinged on one of the nation's most-watched competitions. The battle pitted Austin Mack, a senior who followed DeBoer from Washington and knows the system inside-out, against Keelon Russell,
a dynamic sophomore and former five-star recruit. While the competition was described as neck-and-neck through much of camp, the decision was finally made in late August, with Keelon Russell officially being named the starter. Russell, who had a breakout performance in the spring A-Day game with four touchdowns, brings a playmaking upside that the staff ultimately decided to bet on. The decision signals a clear direction for DeBoer's offense as the Crimson Tide look to retool and immediately return to the top of the SEC.
Tennessee: A True Freshman Phenom Takes Over
In Knoxville, the question wasn't just who would start, but whether the Volunteers would hand the keys to a true freshman. The answer is yes, as the program officially named Faizon Brandon the starter. The five-star prospect, ranked as one of the top players in the 2026 recruiting class, beat out redshirt freshman George MacIntyre in a battle of prized recruits. Sources close to the program have praised Brandon's advanced maturity and physical gifts. By starting Brandon, one of the youngest quarterbacks to ever lead the Vols, Tennessee is making a bold bet on elite talent, hoping his upside can elevate them in a brutal SEC and into the expanded playoff field.
Vanderbilt: Experience Over Hype
Not every battle ends with the five-star freshman taking the crown. Vanderbilt provided one of the more surprising decisions of the offseason, naming senior Blaze Berlowitz the starting quarterback. He beat out Jared Curtis, the No. 2 overall player in the 2026 class and the highest-rated recruit in program history. While Curtis impressed coaches with his raw talent, the staff ultimately sided with Berlowitz, who has experience in the offensive system. However, reports suggest that Curtis is still expected to see the field, making the situation in Nashville one to monitor as the season progresses. It's a classic clash of readiness versus potential.
Georgia: The Hunt for a Reliable Backup
In Athens, the primary battle isn't for the starting job but for the crucial role behind it. Gunner Stockton is firmly entrenched as QB1, but the competition to be his primary backup remains a significant question mark for the perennial title contender. The Bulldogs had hoped a clear No. 2 would emerge from a group that includes veteran Ryan Puglisi and second-year players Ryan Montgomery and Hezekiah Millender. However, inconsistent play and turnovers in fall scrimmages have left the battle unresolved. Given Stockton's physical style of play, the lack of a clear and trusted backup is a vulnerability that could become a major storyline if an injury occurs, making this one of the most important under-the-radar situations in the country.
