Two college football powerhouses predicted to have heated QB battles in 2026

Alabama and Florida are set to face significant quarterback battles as they head into the upcoming college football season. Alabama's competition involves Austin Mack and Keelon Russell. Mack, with an extra year of experience, previously enrolled at Washington and followed coach Kalen DeBoer to Alabama, where he played minimally in 2024 and 2025. Russell, the No. 2 national prospect in the 2025 recruiting class, showed potential in limited action last year. This battle could influence DeBoer's future with the team.

Florida's quarterback situation pits Trammell Jones against transfer Aaron Philo. Jones, who backed up DJ Lagway in 2025, was a three-star recruit and demonstrated potential in his limited appearances. Philo, transferring from Georgia Tech, brings experience from playing under Florida's new offensive coordinator Buster Faulkner. Both quarterbacks will vie for the starting role as Florida navigates its first season under coach Jon Sumrall. These competitions are expected to draw significant