Keelon Russell waits to congratulate Gunner Stockton after Alabama defeat
Alabama quarterback Keelon Russell stayed on the field after a 20-17 loss to Georgia to congratulate Gunner Stockton. CBS Sports reported that he waited for his counterpart's television interview to finish.
The teams met in Tuscaloosa on October 10. As Alabama players headed to the locker room, the 19-year-old Russell remained while Stockton spoke to ESPN. Russell later explained that he respects opposing players regardless of whether his team wins or loses.
Stockton, 22, said they had never spoken before that evening. He welcomed the gesture and said he also tries to shake the opposing quarterback's hand after games.
Alabama suffered its first defeat of the season. Its official report credited Russell with 185 passing yards and another 41 rushing yards. Georgia remained unbeaten.