Alabama football wrapped up its spring season earlier this month with the annual A-Day game at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Now, as the summer months approach, national analysts are weighing in on where the Crimson Tide stands among college football's elite. CBS Sports recently released its post-spring top 25 rankings, and Alabama finds itself at No. 14.
In the latest rankings from veteran analyst Brandon Marcello, Alabama sits just one spot behind SEC rival Ole Miss and one spot ahead of Michigan. It's a slight bump up from CBS Sports' initial "way-too-early" list released after January's College Football Playoff national championship.
Marcello noted that while Alabama has the potential to outperform its current ranking, "offseason developments have reduced confidence" heading into Kalen DeBoer's third season. Key concerns include NC State running back Hollywood Smothers backing out of his transfer commitment to join Texas instead, and an unsettled quarterback battle. Though rising redshirt freshman Keelon Russell appears to have the edge over Austin Mack, the competition remains open. Marcello added, "DeBoer is an elite coach, but it's still nearly impossible to match the standard still bleeding over from the Nick Saban era."
Russell made a strong case for the starting job during A-Day, completing 21 of 33 passes for 240 yards and four touchdowns with just one interception. Mack, meanwhile, went 6-of-12 for 101 yards with one touchdown and one interception. The winner will take over for former starter Ty Simpson, adding intrigue to an already compelling offseason narrative.
Alabama's national standing varies across outlets. USA TODAY Sports placed the Tide at No. 12 in its post-spring outlook, while ESPN ranked them No. 16 in its updated way-too-early projections for 2026. The SEC dominated CBS Sports' top 25 with 10 teams represented, followed by the Big Ten with eight.
For fans looking to gear up for what promises to be a pivotal season, now is the perfect time to stock up on Alabama Crimson Tide apparel and accessories. Whether you're backing Russell or Mack, show your support in style as DeBoer's squad aims to reclaim its place among the nation's best.