Alabama DB Dre Kirkpatrick called for targeting, suspended for first half vs. Wisconsin

Attempting to run out the clock against Louisiana-Monroe, Alabama ran into a big problem. They will be without defensive back Dre Kirkpatrick Jr. for the first half of Saturday’s contest against Wisconsin due to a targeting call. Flagged in the fourth quarter, Kirkpatrick was also ejected from the current contest.

“Dre Kirkpatrick Jr. does not shy away from contact,” Charlie Potter of On3 | Rivals’ BOL said via X. “But after a review, he’s flagged for targeting. Kirkpatrick will miss the first half of next week’s Wisconsin game.”

Kirkpatrick is in his second season with the program, being an Alabama legacy. He played a role during for the Crimson Tide last year despite being a true freshman. In 13 games played, Kirkpatrick recorded three tackles. Everyone on staff in Tuscaloosa was hoping for a little more consistency out of the youngster in 2025.

Unfortunately, they will not get an opportunity to see him play against a decent power conference opponent — for two quarters. When Alabama walks back out onto Bryant-Denny Stadium for the second half against Wisconsin, Kirkpatrick can be there with him.

Kirkpatrick played high school football at Gadsden (AL) Gadsden City, where he was a three-star prospect. He was the No. 669 overall recruit in the 2024 cycle, according to the Rivals Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies.

An early kickoff is scheduled for 11 a.m. CT next Saturday. ABC will be broadcasting the game, being the first of another triple header on the network.

Alabama freshman quarterback Keelon Russel throws first career touchdown

Alabama fans are getting a good look at the program’s future. It’s one they have been waiting on for quite some time. Keelon Russell is in at quarterback and already producing points. Yes, Louisiana-Monroe is the opponent but Russell is playing in a college football game for the first time in his career.

Looking at a 3rd and 9, Russell dropped back before facing some pressure. Forced the step up, he retreated for a second before finding Cole Adams wide open inside the 10-yard line. Nobody was around him and the wide receiver walked in for a touchdown.

The play itself is insignificant when discussing the game’s outcome. But Russell will surely remember this moment for a long, long time. Everyone in Tuscaloosa is hoping this is the first of many for the freshman quarterback. You can watch the entire play here.