Alabama’s defense silenced a rowdy fan base at Neyland Stadium, posting three sacks, seven tackles for loss and a interception in the first half against Tennessee. Safety Ronnie Harrison handed Volunteers’ quarterback Joshua Dobbs his ninth pick of the season, returning it for a 58-yard touchdown in the first quarter.
The Crimson Tide held Tennessee to 41 total yards, with 30 coming from Dobbs.
Alabama quarterback Jalen Hurts struggled in the first half, connecting on nine of 17 throws for 64 yards and an interception. The miscue was Hurts’ third pick of the year and a lost fumble in the second quarter gives him seven mistakes. He did record an explosive 45-yard touchdown run, moving him to a team-high 92 yards rushing on eight carries. The Tide out gained Tennessee 309-41 in the first half, but its offense must develop more consistency. Its run game has been the story, totaling 245 yards and two scores on 27 carries.
Alabama leads the Vols 21-7 at halftime.
Stephen M. Smith is a senior analyst and columnist for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @Smsmith_TDALMag.
