Photo Credit: Wade Payne
The most anticipated game of the week lived up to the hype Saturday as #6 Tennessee upset #3 Alabama on a last-second field goal 52-49. The Vols ended a 15-year drought since last defeating the Crimson Tide in 2006. It was a memorable win for Neyland Stadium students and alumni as they erupted and stormed the field to celebrate a victory that took over a decade to happen.
Game Summary
It was a heart-pounding and suspenseful game throughout its entirety. The Vols took a 28-10 lead over the Tide early in the 2nd Quarter. It appeared the Vols were going to run away with a commanding victory. However, the Tide fought back and cut the deficit to 28-20 at the half with a 43-yard field goal.
In the 2nd half, on the opening drive, the Tide stopped the Vols on 4th and 2 to regain the ball. The Tide was able to capitalize and even the score 28-28 on a 26-yard touchdown run by Jahmyr Gibbs and a successful 2-point conversion.
The score from that point on saw many lead changes.
What seemed to be the nail in the coffin for the Tide occurred in the 4th Quarter. Vols quarterback Hendon Hooker fumbles an option read which was scooped and scored by the Tide to give them a 49-42 lead.
The Vols however would not go away so easily. On their next possession, Hooker threw a game-tying touchdown pass (49-49) to Jalin Hyatt with 3:26 left in regulation.
It also gave Alabama a chance in the last drive to win the game, and the way Alabama's offense was playing seemed like they were on their way to another victory. The Tide marched down the field and got into Will Reichards's field goal range. However, Reichard missed the 50-yard field goal attempt wide right with 15 seconds left.
It was enough time for Hendon Hooker to work his magic and get his team in field goal range. Vols kicker Chase McGrath kicked a 40-yard knuckleball as time expired to give the Vols the historic win (52-49).
Bryce Young of the Crimson Tide completed 35/52 passes for 455 yards and two touchdowns. Hendon Hooker completed 21/30 passes for 386 yards and five touchdowns.
Player Of The Game
Vols wide receiver Jalin Hyatt had a legendary performance against the Tide. Hyatt caught six passes, of which five were for touchdowns for 207 yards.