41 Facts About Tennessee Vs. Alabama

Tennessee vs. Alabama: A Historic Rivalry

The Tennessee vs. Alabama football rivalry is one of the most storied in college sports. Known as the "Third Saturday in October," this annual clash has been a staple of college football for decades. Here are some fascinating facts about this legendary matchup.

1. The rivalry began in 1901, making it one of the oldest in college football history.

2. Alabama leads the series with a significant number of wins, showcasing their dominance over the years.

3. The game is traditionally played on the third Saturday in October, although scheduling changes have occasionally moved it.

4. The rivalry was interrupted during World War II, with no games played from 1943 to 1944.

5. Tennessee's longest winning streak against Alabama is seven games, achieved from 1995 to 2001.

6. Alabama's longest winning streak against Tennessee is 15 games, from 2007 to 2021.

7. The rivalry is so intense that it has its own trophy, the "Cigar Trophy," which players celebrate with by smoking cigars after a victory.

8. Legendary coaches like Bear Bryant and Phillip Fulmer have been pivotal in shaping the rivalry's history.

9. The 1966 game ended in a 7-7 tie, one of the few ties in the series.

10. The 2009 game, known as the "Rocky Block," saw Alabama's Terrence Cody block a last-second field goal to preserve a 12-10 victory.

Memorable Moments and Players

The Tennessee vs. Alabama rivalry has produced countless memorable moments and legendary players. Here are some highlights that stand out.

11. Peyton Manning, one of Tennessee's most famous quarterbacks, never defeated Alabama during his college career.

12. Alabama's Joe Namath led the Crimson Tide to victory over Tennessee in 1964, a key win in their national championship season.

13. In 1982, Tennessee broke an 11-game losing streak to Alabama with a 35-28 victory.

14. The 1990 game featured a dramatic comeback by Tennessee, who scored 20 points in the fourth quarter to win 20-19.

15. Reggie White, known as the "Minister of Defense," was a dominant force for Tennessee in the early 1980s.

16. Alabama's Derrick Thomas set a school record with five sacks in the 1988 game against Tennessee.

17. The 2003 game went to five overtimes, with Tennessee eventually winning 51-43.

18. In 1995, Tennessee's Jay Graham ran for a 75-yard touchdown, sealing a 41-14 victory over Alabama.

19. The 2016 game saw Alabama's Jalen Hurts account for four touchdowns in a 49-10 rout of Tennessee.

20. Tennessee's Al Wilson had a standout performance in the 1998 game, leading the Volunteers to a 35-18 victory.

Cultural Impact and Traditions

Beyond the gridiron, the Tennessee vs. Alabama rivalry has a significant cultural impact, with traditions that fans cherish.

21. The "Third Saturday in October" nickname is so ingrained that fans still use it even when the game date changes.

22. Tailgating for this game is a major event, with fans from both sides coming together to celebrate.

23. The rivalry has inspired numerous songs and chants, with each fanbase having their own unique traditions.

24. The "Cigar Trophy" tradition began in the 1950s and continues to this day, with players lighting up cigars after a victory.

25. The game is often a family affair, with multiple generations attending together.

26. Fans often wear special rivalry game apparel, showcasing their team pride.

27. The rivalry has been featured in numerous documentaries and books, highlighting its significance in college football history.

28. The game is a major recruiting tool for both schools, with high school prospects often attending to experience the atmosphere.

29. The rivalry has seen its share of pranks and hijinks, with fans from both sides trying to outdo each other.

30. The game is a major economic boost for the host city, with hotels and restaurants seeing increased business.

Modern Era and Future Outlook

As college football evolves, the Tennessee vs. Alabama rivalry remains a constant. Here's a look at the modern era and what the future might hold.

31. The introduction of the College Football Playoff has added new stakes to the rivalry, with both teams often in contention.

32. The rivalry has seen increased media coverage, with games often featured in prime time.

33. Social media has amplified the rivalry, with fans and players engaging in online banter.

34. The rivalry has seen a resurgence in recent years, with both teams fielding competitive squads.

35. The game often has SEC Championship implications, adding to the intensity.

36. The rivalry has expanded beyond football, with other sports like basketball and baseball seeing increased competition.

37. The introduction of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals has added a new dimension to the rivalry, with players capitalizing on their fame.

38. The rivalry has seen increased diversity, with players from various backgrounds contributing to its legacy.

39. The game is often a showcase for future NFL talent, with scouts in attendance.

40. The rivalry continues to be a major talking point in college football, with fans eagerly anticipating each year's matchup.

41. The future of the rivalry looks bright, with both programs committed to maintaining its significance in college football.

Final Thoughts on Tennessee vs. Alabama

Tennessee vs. Alabama isn't just a game; it's a tradition steeped in history, passion, and fierce competition. From the first clash in 1901 to the modern-day showdowns, this rivalry has seen unforgettable moments, legendary players, and intense fan loyalty. Whether you're a die-hard Vols supporter or a Crimson Tide enthusiast, the stories and stats behind this matchup are fascinating. The rivalry showcases the spirit of college football, highlighting why it's more than just a sport in the South. As you dive into the rich history of these two teams, you'll find that every game adds a new chapter to an already epic saga. So, next time Tennessee and Alabama face off, you'll appreciate the depth and significance of this storied rivalry even more.