Alabama-Tennessee – Best moments, highlights and takeaways

It’s the third Saturday in October and time for the renewal of the Alabama Crimson Tide–Tennessee Volunteers rivalry.

The two SEC East rivals last met as top-10 opponents in 2016 — but this has been far from an even matchup in recent years. Alabama is riding a 15-game winning streak and Nick Saban has never lost to the Volunteers in his time in Tuscaloosa. The closest the Vols have been was a two-point loss in 2009, while the Crimson Tide have scored 41 or more points in eight of the past 15 meetings.

Bryce Young, who injured his shoulder two weeks ago against the Arkansas Razorbacks, got the start for Saturday’s game. Young will try to outduel Vols QB Hendon Hooker, who has accounted for 13 total scores and has yet to throw an interception. Entering Saturday’s contest, Tennessee’s offense is No. 1 in the nation in yards per game and No. 2 in points per game.

Alabama might have to rely on its defense, which has given up the sixth-fewest points and yards per game.

Don’t forget, besides taking a big lead in the playoff chase, the winner gets the victory cigar.

Here are the biggest plays and best moments from Alabama-Tennessee:

Three TDs for Tennessee

It’s been all Volunteers in the first quarter. Hooker and Hyatt connected on another touchdown, this time an 11-yard catch and run. Tennessee extends its lead to 14 over Alabama in the first quarter.

Hooker shows off the arm

Points are coming fast, as Hooker connected with receiver Jalin Hyatt for a 36-yard score. It is Hyatt’s sixth touchdown this season and puts Tennessee back in front.

Bama responds

Bryce Young‘s shoulder looked pretty good, as he made a couple of impressive throws to put Bama in scoring position. Running back Jahmyr Gibbs capped off the drive with an 8-yard touchdown run.

Tennessee strikes first

The Vols’ opening drive lasted less than two minutes and ended with a Jabari Small touchdown run from a yard out. Tennessee is the first Alabama opponent to score a touchdown on the first offensive possession this season.

A talk with a legend

Volunteers quarterback Hendon Hooker chatted with Tennessee alum and Pro Football Hall of Famer Peyton Manning before kickoff.

The teams arrive