Sheer enjoyment took over Neyland Stadium when the smoke cleared from an epic rivalry.
Tennessee fans popped open cigars in excitement for the first time against Nick Saban.
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Goal posts were taken down, cameras got tossed into the river, and videos went viral as Josh Heupel gave Volunteer fans something they had not had in a while. He delivered a successful season to Tennessee and one that included a marquee victory at home against its fiercest rival. Heupel coached an offense that scored 52 points on a Saban-coached Alabama defense, handing the Crimson Tide one of its two losses in 2022. Tennessee ended the season at 11-2, making a New Year’s Six Bowl (Orange Bowl) and defeating Clemson. Heupel has a chance to gain its second straight victory over Saban as the “Third Saturday in October” rivalry returns to Bryant-Denny Stadium. He spoke Monday about the matchup and praised Jalen Milroe’s athleticism.
According to Rocky Top Insider, Heupel told reporters the Alabama game is a ‘huge test’ for Tennessee.
Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel on Alabama: Huge test for us. One that we will be excited for. Just got to focus on our preparation this week.
— Rocky Top Insider (@rockytopinsider) October 16, 2023
“One that we will be excited for. Just got to focus on our preparation this week,” Heupel said.
He coached against Bryce Young last year, but Heupel faces Milroe this time. The redshirt sophomore has made strides each week to become a complete quarterback. He has 16 total touchdowns (five rushing scores) and 1,397 passing yards.
Heupel on QB Jalen Milroe: When the ball is in his hands, part of the run game, he is dynamic.
— Rocky Top Insider (@rockytopinsider) October 16, 2023
“When the ball is in his hands, part of the run game, he is dynamic,” Huepel said about Milroe.
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Alabama is in the part of its season where it needs to start dominating opponents.
Milroe and the Tide have a chance to avenge a loss from last season and continue their push for a Southeastern Conference Championship. The matchup will be on Saturday at 2:30 p.m. CT on CBS.
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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.
