Jags and Crimson Tide showcase spring football progress this weekend

MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) - Spring football wraps up across the state this weekend, with both the South Alabama Jaguars and the Alabama Crimson Tide showcasing their teams for the first time in the 2026 season.

South Alabama focuses on connection

The Jags wrap up four weeks of work with a more traditional, game-like showcase. Head Coach Major Applewhite is emphasizing competition at every position.

“Competition is everywhere. When we get done with spring, we’re not going to sign, stamp, deliver... that you’re the starter. You can be the leader going into the clubhouse after spring, but we’re going to keep things open, and we’re going to compete,” Applewhite said.

The Jaguars are also working to build chemistry with a new-look roster.

“Connection..... Connection, connection, connection. As soon as you get them all in the building and they’re all sitting in the same seats, and you know that there’s no life rafts or exit plans, then how do you get connected? One of the easiest ways to get to know people is break bread and tell your stories,” Applewhite said.

Applewhite will also call plays himself this season as South continues to find their identity on both sides of the ball. With no spring transfer portal window, what fans see Saturday could be very close to the final product.

Alabama evaluates quarterback battle

In Tuscaloosa, the focus shifts to a high-stakes quarterback battle. The Alabama Crimson Tide continue to evaluate Austin Mack and Keelon Russell.

Head Coach Kalen DeBoer said both have earned the locker room.

“If there’s chatter in there… and they need eyes on them… they’ll say it and the guys will respond. There’s a lot of respect that team has in there for them,” DeBoer said.

Mack brings experience, Russell brings upside, and both continue to split reps.

Up front, a completely revamped offensive line is working to fix a run game that struggled last season.

“Get more movement in the run game. We’ve got to all come together… keep getting better at that. I think it’s a couple of things…technique is a big part of it…but your mentality coming off the ball,” Alabama offensive lineman Jackson Lloyd said.

While spring will not decide the fall, it can set the tone. For South Alabama, it is about building together. For Alabama, it is about finding the right fit.

South Alabama’s spring showcase kicks off at 11 a.m. Saturday here in Mobile at Hancock Whitney Stadium. Alabama’s A-Day gets underway at 1 p.m. in Tuscaloosa at Bryant Denny Stadium.