Tennessee had a special game last year against Alabama, and it allowed the Volunteers to have an incredible season.
Hendon Hooker, Jalin Hyatt, and the Vols proved it had enough firepower to topple the Crimson Tide at Neyland Stadium (Knoxville, Tenn.) for the biggest matchup of college football. Bryce Young became the No. 1 overall pick in the NFL Draft, but Hooker had a better performance than the California native against Tennessee. Hooker shredded Alabama’s defensive secondary for 385 passing yards and five touchdowns. Hyatt needed one game to enhance his draft status and it was against the Tide.
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He posted six receptions for 207 yards and five scores. Alabama made several mental mistakes — including 17 penalties — that doomed it to its first loss of the 2022 season. Josh Heupel, Hooker, and Hyatt led the Vols to its first victory over the Crimson Tide in the Saban era. Tennessee rolls into Saturday’s matchup at 5-1 and ranked No. 19 in the nation. Alabama has no room for error as a second loss ends its chances to play for the College Football Playoff and a national championship opportunity.
It had the pieces to upset the Tide in 2022, but can the Vols do it again?
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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.
