Instant reactions to Alabama's dominant Week 1 win vs. East Carolina
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On Saturday afternoon, the Alabama Crimson Tide officially opened the 2026 season in Tuscaloosa against the East Carolina Pirates.
A matchup which Alabama entered as heavy favorites, the Crimson Tide flexed their muscle to begin the year inside of Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium on Saturday, rolling to a 48-10 victory over East Carolina.
The win included an impressive first half from the Crimson Tide that saw Alabama rush for four touchdowns, as well as add another via a pick six defensively. Alabama went on to continue that success during the second half, with a number of the main talking points from the Crimson Tide's first half carrying over to the second.
Following are some instant reactions to Alabama's season-opening win over the Pirates on Saturday afternoon.
Alabama running game has big showing
An area which Alabama struggled a year ago, the Crimson Tide's running game was among the biggest takeaways in the win Saturday afternoon. The Crimson Tide altogether enjoyed a big day on the ground rushing for 227 yards on 49 attempts, averaging 4.6 yards per carry as a team. Four different players had a rushing touchdown.
Keelon Russell solid in first Alabama start
Alabama quarterback Keelon Russell showcased his potential in his first-career start, completing 17-of-29 passes for 249 yards. Russell also had a big performance on the ground, rushing for a team-high 86 yards and one touchdown on 13 attempts.
Alabama defense has dominant performance
The Crimson Tide defense was dominant at times Saturday afternoon, limiting the Pirates to only 162 yards of total offense and 0-of-9 on third down. Alabama's defense also added a Yhonzae Pierre pick six, three sacks, and allowed the Pirates offense to pickup only 5 first downs the entire game.
Ryan Coleman-Williams makes impact on offense, special teams
Lastly, Ryan Coleman-Williams had a solid start to his junior season at Alabama, racking up a team-high 130 yards on five receptions. Coleman-Williams also had a solid showing on special teams as the Crimson Tide's punt returner with three returns for 26 yards.
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This article originally appeared on Roll Tide Wire: Instant reactions to Alabama's dominant Week 1 win vs. East Carolina
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