The Tennessee Volunteers play host to the Alabama Crimson Tide in a crucial SEC and top-ten showdown from Neyland Stadium. The Crimson Tide remains near the top of the AP Poll but a recent surge by Tennessee has this set as one of the most anticipated games of the weekend. Alabama is coming off of a close matchup last week and will be looking to refind their form on the road. For Tennessee, they're winless against Alabama in the last decade, which is a trend that they'll be looking to put an end to in front of a raucous crowd on Saturday.
There aren't many times when Alabama hits the road in the SEC and is only a single-digit favorite, showing that Saturday certainly could be an interesting matchup. Alabam remains undefeated and a heavy favorite to make their way to the College Football Playoff but after last week's close call with the Aggies, questions remain. Crimson Tide fans are hoping that it was a one-off against an opponent that has typically played them well but with that being their second single-digit win already on the season, Saturday could be their toughest test yet. Nick Saban's group is never daunted, whether on the road or at home, regardless of the opponent, and even though they'll be going into a tough environment, they'll be embracing that atmosphere and opportunity.
Injuries remain a massive storyline for Alabama as they head into this weekend. Bryce Young (shoulder) remains questionable for the second-straight w eek but after not playing last week, it appears he still might be a ways away from getting game action. Without him, the Crimson Tide could struggle for the second-straight week.
RB/WR/KOR ? @hornungaward ??@Jahmyr_Gibbs1 #BamaFactor #RollTide pic.twitter.com/etmY4Nk2cd
— Alabama Football (@AlabamaFTBL) October 11, 2022
Alabama's offense continues to be one of the most dangerous even in the country, even potentially without Young. They rank seventh nationally in total yards and with Tennessee's inability to stop opponents through the air, it could be interesting. The matchup to watch though is on the ground, as Alabama's third nationally rushing attack, takes on a Tennessee defense that is stout against the run. Jahmyr Gibbs is the one to keep an eye on and given his ability as a runner and pass-catcher out of the backfield, he might be tasked with finding success.
Defensively, Alabama will be well-equipped to handle Tennessee's high-flying offense and that'll start with stopping them through the air. The Crimson Tide rank in the top ten when it comes to total defense, scoring defense, and rushing defense, but their slight step back against the pass could be an issue in this one. With one of the nation's most elusive quarterback s in the opposing backfield, look for Alabama to try to cause havoc in the backfield early. Will Anderson Jr. (5 sacks, 1 defensive touchdown) remains a force, though it's Henry To'oTo'o (39 tackles) who will likely have his named called throughout.