He provided updates on quarterback Bryce Young and linebacker Jaylen Moody, but Alabama head coach Nick Saban looked excited to discuss how the players responded in practice for Tennessee on Thursday during his radio show.
Tennessee has not beaten Alabama since Saban became the head coach in 2007. Eric Ainge was the last quarterback for the Volunteers to defeat the Crimson Tide in 2006. Several national media pundits and Tennessee fans believe this year will end Alabama’s streak of dominance. Many feel that Hendon Hooker and the Vols’ offense will be too much for Alabama. Others feel Young will not play against the Volunteers and Jalen Milroe won’t be enough for the Tide to win in a hostile environment.
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Saban sounded confident about his team’s preparation for Saturday’s rivalry matchup at Neyland Stadium.
“Our players have worked hard this week,” he said. “We’ve had a good week. They’ve got a lot of energy and enthusiasm. I think we’ve got a good plan, and everybody’s ready to go execute it against a good team.”
National media, betting odds, and other aspects have Tennessee upsetting the Tide. The same scenario happened in the 2021 Southeastern Conference Championship Game versus Georgia. Most took the Bulldogs over Alabama, and Saban motivated his team to prove them wrong. The Tide dominated Georgia, 42-21, capturing an SEC title and College Football Playoff berth.
Alabama fans look to see Bryce Young play this weekend. Saban loves the energy, but we will see how the Tide looks.
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Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
