Tennessee football’s cigar tradition sparks rivalry celebrations

When the University of Tennessee Volunteers faced off against the Alabama Crimson Tide, the outcome was more than a simple football win or loss. For fans, a win meant rolling out the Tennessee cigars and lighting up the night. The tradition of smoking cigars after victories in the Alabama-Tennessee matchup is a storied one, deeply entangled in the history of the rivalry and the emotions that come with it. But why do the Vols smoke cigars?

The History of the Cigar Tradition

The cigar tradition in Tennessee football dates back several decades, with reports of the practice beginning in the 1960s. Players, coaches, and fans alike have celebrated victories by smoking cigars, a ritual that has become as iconic as the game itself. The practice isn't just about tobacco; it's about tradition and camaraderie.

This tradition is especially pronounced in the rivalry between the Volunteers and the Crimson Tide. The Third Saturday in October is a day marked by more than just a football game. It's a day when the winner often celebrates with a cigar, a tradition so entrenched that it serves as a symbol of victory.

Look, it’s not just the thrill of the game; it’s the thrill of defying the odds and the rules to light up a cigar. Sound familiar, Vols fans? It should. Here's the thing: this tradition isn’t just about the cigar, it’s about the victory, the rivalry, and the community that comes together to celebrate. And then — get this — there’s the dancing. Defensive coordinator Jim Knowles was seen dancing in the locker room during the postgame celebration, adding a layer of joy and jubilation to the already exhilarating win over Alabama.

But it's not just about the game. Fans and players alike revel in the ritual of smoking cigars, which has become a symbol of unity and triumph. Tennessee football fans have a lot to celebrate, and the victory cigars are a tangible way to express that joy. Here’s what it looks like: the smell of victory, the taste of tradition, and the camaraderie of a shared moment.

As the stars align and the Vols secure a victory, the celebration goes beyond the field. Players and fans break out the first victory cigars, often after a key play or a particularly impressive performance.

The Future and Other Considerations

OZ Family Cigars, a company that has supplied the Volunteer locker room with cigars for post-game celebrations, has been a key player in maintaining this tradition.

But why do they do it? Why do Tennessee fans and players light up a cigar after a victory? The answer is simple: it’s a way to celebrate, to connect, and to carry on a tradition that has been passed down through generations. It’s a testament to the spirit of the Volunteers, a symbol of their victory, and a reminder of the rich history of the university.

So, what’s next for the Volunteers? Will they continue to light up the night with victory cigars, or will new traditions emerge as the years go by? The future of this tradition is as uncertain as the outcome of the next game. But one thing is for sure: the spirit of the Volunteers will continue to burn brightly, whether it’s through the smoke of a cigar or the roar of the crowd. How will the tradition evolve, and what new rituals will emerge in the dynamic world of college football?