Saturday afternoon brought about the latest edition of “The Third Saturday in October,” as one of the SEC’s top rivalry games was renewed in Knoxville between the Alabama Crimson Tide and Tennessee Volunteers.
A game that pitted No. 7 vs. No. 11, Tennessee came away victorious on Saturday, winning by a final score of 24-17. With the win/loss, Alabama now sits at 5-2 overall for the season, as well as 2-2 in SEC play.
Let’s take a look at a few instant reactions to Alabama’s Week 8 trip to Knoxville to face the rival Volunteers:
Jalen Milroe costly INT early
One of the biggest missed opportunities early for Alabama on Saturday came late in the first quarter when Jalen Milroe was intercepted in the end zone on second-and-goal from the three, and was returned for 54 yards. This did not come back to bite Alabama however, as the Volunteers later missed a field goal, but it was still a missed chance to claim an early 7-0 lead, one of multiple by the Crimson Tide early-on.
Alabama defense creates early turnovers
A big reason Alabama had so many missed opportunities in the first half Saturday was because the Crimson Tide’s defense forced multiple turnovers, but could never really capitalize off them with points. In all, Alabama had two interceptions, as well as a fumble recovery.
Alabama penalties a problem
One of the biggest talking points from Alabama’s 2022 loss in Knoxville was penalties, committing 17 altogether. Alabama struggled once again Saturday with 15 penalties for 115 yards, 10 of which were in the first half alone.
Alabama’s performance on third down
Something that Alabama has struggled with this season, the Crimson Tide’s defense limited Tennessee to 6-of-14 on third downs. Offensively, Alabama struggled on third downs as well, converting only 3-of-14 attempts.
No margin for error going forward
Alabama now has two losses on the season, meaning that there is no margin for error going forward. The Crimson Tide’s chances for the 12-team College Football Playoff are slim, and they will certainly have to win out to do it.