Third Saturday in October

The rivalry deemed as the Third Saturday in October tends to have two teams playing for the same thing: SEC supremacy. This year, however, things are much different. Alabama is hoping to stay undefeated and quite possibly receive a number #1 ranking as they currently stand at #2. For Tennessee, it is a hope to redeem an already rough season in which they have already lost 3 SEC conference games.

The current records will be thrown out Saturday as the rivalry will get the best play from both teams. Phillip Fulmer is 11-4 in his tenure against the Crimson Tide.

KEYS TO TENNESSEE VICTORY-

Defensiveley- For the Vols to compete with the second best team in the nation, they must stop Alabama’s rushing attack. Currently the Vols are giving up a mere 95 yards a game. If the Volunteers can stop the run early and force quarterback John Parker Wilson to throw, the Volunteers gain a tremendous advantage. They lead the nation with interception takeaways with 14 and must get turnovers from the Tide and put the struggling offense into positive positions.

Offensively- Tennessee’s offense has truly struggled this year as they rank near the bottom in every offensive category. However, the Volunteers have progressed schematically with the insertion of sophomore Nick Stephens at quarterback. Stephens has thrown for 542 yards and three touchdowns in the past three games he has started. He also led the Vols to the COLOSSAL win last week against Mississippi State, which could be the catalyst to a saved season.

The Crimson Tide enter Rocky Top off of two poor performances and need a win to stay atop the SEC west as well as the national rankings.

Keys to a CRIMSON TIDE Victory-

Defensivley- Alabama is stacked on both sides of the ball upfront. The Tides defensive front has caused problems for each team they have faced due to their overwhelming size advantage. This week however, the Tide will be without nose tackle Terrence Cody. The Alabama defense must stop the Tennessee offense early and get them to begin to question themselves. The Tide clearly overmatch the Vols and need hit early to set a precident.

Offensiveley- Again, Alabama’s successes can be attributed to the large bodies up front. The line averages over 300 pounds and has been able to open gaping holes for Glenn Coffee all season. It is crucial for the Tide to score quick and not turn the ball over. The last two games, Alabama has made 5 turnovers. That is NOT they way a NATIONAL CHAMPION should play. The mistakes need to be held to a minimum in order to get the win and continue with their undefeated record.