Alabama defeats East Carolina 48-10 in season opener

Alabama opened the 2026 season on Saturday with a 48-10 victory over East Carolina at Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium. The Crimson Tide offense generated 227 rushing yards and four rushing touchdowns, while quarterback Keelon Russell recorded 249 passing yards and one rushing touchdown in his first career start. The Alabama defense held the Pirates to 162 total yards and 0-of-9 on third downs, adding a defensive touchdown via a pick six from Yhonzae Pierre. Ryan Coleman-Williams led Alabama with 130 receiving yards on five catches. The win marks a strong start for the Crimson Tide following a season where they experienced difficulties in their ground game. Alabama continues its season after this initial performance against the Pirates.

• 7:30 PMYahoo Sports — Instant reactions to Alabama's dominant Week 1 win vs. East Carolina