Few college football rivalries carry more weight, tradition and intensity than the matchup between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Alabama Crimson Tide. Known affectionately (and sometimes ominously) as the Third Saturday in October, this annual clash has served as a measuring stick for success in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) since the early 20th century. Wikipedia+2SI+2
In this blog post, we’ll explore the origins of the rivalry, its ebb and flow over decades, key turning points, why it matters today, and what to watch for in upcoming showdowns.
Origins & Early Years
The series between Tennessee and Alabama dates back to 1901, when the two teams first met to a 6–6 tie in Birmingham. University of Tennessee Athletics+1 In those earliest years Alabama dominated, especially during the stretch from 1902 to 1913 where the Volunteers never even scored a touchdown against the Crimson Tide. Wikipedia+1
By 1928, the game began to be scheduled on its more familiar “October” slot, and by 1939 it became formally known as the “Third Saturday in October” matchup. Wikipedia The name stuck, even though scheduling shifts later meant it wasn’t always played exactly on that Saturday.
Peaks, Streaks & Momentum Swings
This rivalry has been defined by streaks — long runs of dominance by one side, momentum swings, and unforgettable games.
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Alabama enjoyed 11 straight wins from 1971 to 1981, building a strong legacy of superiority. Wikipedia+1
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Tennessee responded decades later with a streak of its own, winning 7 in a row from 1995 to 2001. Wikipedia
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Perhaps most notably, Alabama racked up 15 consecutive victories over Tennessee from 2007 to 2021. SI+1
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That streak ended in 2022 when Tennessee stunned Alabama, winning 52–49, marking a massive shift in the rivalry’s recent history. Saturday Down South+1
These patterns show how dominance in this rivalry can ebb and flow, and how one win can change the narrative.
Why the Rivalry Matters
There are several reasons this matchup commands attention beyond just two talented teams playing each year:
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Historical prestige: Both Tennessee and Alabama are among the winningest programs in SEC history, so when they meet, it’s not just any game — it’s a fight for legacy. SI+1
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Tradition & identity: The nickname “Third Saturday in October” carries weight and ritual. For decades fans have circled that date. SI+1
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Significant implications: If both teams are in contention, the result can affect division standings, playoff hope, and recruiting momentum. n.rivals.com
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Fan emotion & bragging rights: For the fans, players, and alumni, beating your rival is more than a win — it’s a boost to pride and program status.
Key Recent Matchups
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In 2022, Tennessee broke the long Alabama streak with a dramatic 52–49 win at home. Reddit+1
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On October 18, 2025, Alabama defeated Tennessee 37–20 in Tuscaloosa, showing their ability to respond and re-assert dominance. Rocky Top Talk
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The all‐time series (as of late 2025) shows Alabama leading roughly 61-40-7. University of Tennessee Athletics+1
These recent results show the rivalry remains dynamic: Tennessee trying to close the gap, Alabama trying to maintain its historic edge.
What Each Team is Fighting For
For Tennessee
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To maintain momentum after breaking the streak in 2022 and show they can compete with the top tier.
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To shift the narrative: the Volunteers want to be seen not just as challengers but as equals in the rivalry.
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To recruit and retain: wins over Alabama help attract recruits and bolster program prestige.
For Alabama
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To reaffirm dominance: keep the upper hand in head‐to‐head and preserve the legacy of the Crimson Tide.
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To daylight separation: wins in this game strengthen Alabama’s standing within the SEC and nationally.
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To prevent momentum swings: avoiding another upset that could embolden Tennessee or other rivals.
What to Watch in Upcoming Games
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Momentum shifts and psychological edge: A win by Tennessee could signal a new era, while a decisive Alabama victory would reaffirm tradition.
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Coaching matchups and game planning: How each coach prepares for this rivalry game often reveals program direction.
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Key player performances: Rivalry games tend to bring out best/worst from quarterbacks, defense, special teams.
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Field location matters: Home field (Knoxville vs Tuscaloosa) can tilt dynamics — crowd noise, travel, preparation.
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Implications for seasons: The result often has ripple effects for conference standings, playoff chances, fan morale.
Final Thoughts
The Tennessee vs Alabama rivalry transcends a single season. It’s rooted in tradition, defined by streaks, powered by intense fan passion, and loaded with implications. When the Volunteers and Crimson Tide meet each October, you’re watching more than a football game — you’re witnessing history, momentum, legacy and identity collide.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan of one side, a neutral observer of college football, or simply someone who appreciates great sports drama — the “Third Saturday in October” is a must-see. Expect high stakes, high emotions, and plays that are remembered long after the final whistle.
If you’d like, I can also write a breakdown of the greatest games in this rivalry, or provide statistical trends and what they mean for the next meeting. Would you like that?
