Tennessee beats Alabama 26-10 in rivalry game
The Volunteers’ defense held Alabama to 10 points, securing a 26-10 win that marks the first back‑to‑back loss for the Crimson Tide since 2013.
Key points
- Tennessee’s defense forced four turnovers and limited Alabama to 10 points.
- Alabama committed 10 penalties and lost key players EJ Crowell, Zabien Brown, and Bray Hubbard to injuries.
- The win is the first time Alabama has lost consecutive games in a season since 2013.
- Tennessee celebrated the victory with its traditional cigar ceremony.
- Alabama coach Kalen DeBoer addressed the injuries and loss after the game.
No. 14 Tennessee defeated No. 6 Alabama 26-10 in their annual "Third Saturday in October" rivalry game at a sellout Neyland Stadium. The Volunteers' defense dominated the contest from start to finish, smothering the Crimson Tide offense. This victory marks the first time Alabama has dropped back-to-back games in the same season since 2013.
Defensive Performance and Turnovers
The Tennessee defense, which features a prominent Penn State connection, controlled the game throughout. Alabama committed four turnovers and 10 penalties during the defeat. The Crimson Tide's inability to sustain drives allowed Tennessee to maintain control of the matchup.
Key Injuries for Alabama
Alabama suffered significant injury setbacks during the game. Running back EJ Crowell and cornerback Zabien Brown left the contest with apparent injuries. Brown, an Alabama captain, sustained a lower-body injury in the first half and did not return to the game. Defensive back Bray Hubbard also exited the matchup after being shaken up on a blindside hit. Alabama coach Kalen DeBoer addressed the departures of Crowell and Brown following the loss.
Post-Game Reactions
Alabama players expressed frustration with their performance. Quarterback Keelon Russell and defensive back Bray Hubbard reacted to the loss, with Russell stating, “I had a horrible game.” The winner of the rivalry, Tennessee, continued the tradition of celebrating with cigars, a practice that has been observed by players and fans since the 1960s.
Your questions, answered
How did Tennessee's defense perform against Alabama?
Tennessee’s defense forced four turnovers and held Alabama to 10 points, dominating the game from start to finish.
Which Alabama players were injured in the game?
Running back EJ Crowell, cornerback Zabien Brown, and defensive back Bray Hubbard left the game with injuries.
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