Time for Annual Tennessee Thumping...

If it is October it's time to beat the Vols...

      Well, it's that time of the year - leaves turning crimson, a little chilly at night, clear bright days, and the howling of 'Ol Smokey as his Tennessee Vols take another beating. In other words, it's the third weekend in October. Alabama and Tennessee get ready for their annual blood letting. Nothing sucks like a Big Orange. In all honesty the Vols are an honored foe. To older fans, the game is still bigger than Auburn. It is for me. It's a much better rivalry than Auburn because the games are hard fought but no hatred abounds on the part of Alabama. You have to remember this is Tennessee's biggest game of the season. On top of that Derrick Dooley may be coaching his last game if the contest gets one sided. On the other hand, a 'Vol win might save his career.  Here's all we need to know. It is Alabama. It is Tennessee.

     Most pundits give Bama the edge. It is a pretty big edge considering  the game is being played in Knoxville. The Tide is a 20 point favorite. It seems to be a pretty stiff number considering the Vols improved running game, and Bama's untested young secondary. Over the decades this has been the game that measured the best team Dixie had to offer. The Vols have been down for a while, but it in no ways takes away the glow of a historical rivalry. The glow of this game will likely be determined by two things. Will Bama's offensive line dominate Tennessee, and can the Bama nickle and dime packages show poise and confidence despite youthfulness.

     I think the Tide will win, but it won't be easy, and the line may not be covered. Bama 28 Tennesse 10.


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