JaMarcus Russell reveals relationship with fellow LSU QBs Matt Mauck, Marcus Randall

When JaMarcus Russell stepped onto LSU‘s campus in 2003, he was one of the highest-rated recruits in the country. But there were still a couple of guys ahead of him on Nick Saban‘s squad, with Matt Mauck leading the eventual national champions and Marcus Randall serving as the backup role.

During a recent interview, Russell talked about his relationship with both Mauck and Randall, beginning with the starter. He said Mauck was one of his roommates and was looking for help as he transitioned to college football. Well, the street was not going two ways, with Mauck telling Russell he should be able to figure it out on his own.

“I started out on scout team, I was a redshirt,” Russell said. “We had a fifth-year senior and Marcus Randall was a fourth-year guy, Matt Mauk the other. First day there, Matt Mauk and I were roommates. He was the starting quarterback so I was like ‘Matt, you want to help me out? Show me what’s going on?’ He said ‘Nah bro, you got the playbook. You’re going to see what’s going on.’ That was like, ‘this is the real deal.’ You have to get it on your own.

Russell said his experience with Randall was a better one, with the backup taking the young freshman “under his wing” during the 2003 season. While Randall may not have gotten a ton of playing time that season and eventually split time with Russell the following year, it was a good relationship.

“Marcus Randall, he was a good guy, bro,” Russell said. “Marcus Randall took me under his wing and showed me the ropes.”

Russell wound up being the starter for LSU during the 2005 and 2006 seasons, helping the Tigers make two BCS bowl games. The quarterback also appeared in an SEC Championship, having an 11-2 record in both years.

Overall, Russell threw for 6,625 yards for 52 touchdowns and 21 interceptions. He impressed so much during his time in Baton Rouge, the Oakland Raiders selected him No. 1 overall in the NFL Draft. While it may not have worked out, Russell was still a solid quarterback at LSU.

Having a relationship such as Randall helped Russell move into the starting role under new head coach Les Miles. Mauk was going to be on his way out and was focused on winning the national championship back in 2003. Getting guidance from somebody who was older and had some experience seemingly helped Russell become the college player he was.