It’s the East Carolina Pirates versus the Alabama Crimson Tide at Bryant-Denny Stadium on September 5, 2026. Here’s how to watch live on TV.
- Time: 12:00 PM ET
- Location: Bryant-Denny Stadium, Tuscaloosa, AL
- TV Channels: ABC
How to Watch East Carolina vs. Alabama on September 5, 2026
You can watch the Alabama take on the East Carolina live on DIRECTV on ABC on September 5, 2026 at 12:00 PM ET.
East Carolina (0-0) at No. 13 Alabama (0-0) — Game Preview
East Carolina opens its season on the road against No. 13 Alabama at Bryant-Denny Stadium on September 5, 2026, with both programs still unbeaten and untested. The matchup opens Alabama’s SEC schedule under a national spotlight, with the Crimson Tide looking to build early momentum inside the AP Top 25 while the Pirates test themselves against a marquee opponent to open the year.
Alabama turns to Keelon Russell at quarterback after a fall camp competition, with the sophomore taking the reins for his first extended look as a starter. East Carolina counters with Mitch Griffis under center as the Pirates break in a retooled offense for the opener. Wide receiver Ryan Coleman-Williams returns as one of Alabama’s most experienced offensive weapons heading into the season. A win over an unranked opponent to open the year would keep Alabama firmly positioned in the national rankings as SEC play approaches.
National TV
ABC
What Time is the East Carolina vs. Alabama Game Today?
The East Carolina vs. Alabama game starts at 12:00 PM ET.
Where Can I Watch East Carolina vs. Alabama?
You can watch East Carolina vs. Alabama on ABC.
Players to Watch: East Carolina vs. Alabama
East Carolina Pirates
Mitch Griffis — QB. Griffis is expected to start behind center for East Carolina in the season opener, leading a Pirates offense that breaks in several new starters this year.
Alabama Crimson Tide
Keelon Russell — QB. Russell heads into the season as Alabama’s starting quarterback after winning the job in fall camp, becoming head coach Kalen DeBoer’s third different Week 1 starter in as many seasons.
Ryan Coleman-Williams brings experience back to the receiver room as one of the Crimson Tide’s more established options heading into the opener.
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