College Football: Preview, Prediction for Alabama-Tennessee

Jul 15, 2015; Birmingham, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide head coach Nick Saban speaks to media during SEC media day at the Wynfrey Hotel. Mandatory Credit: Shanna Lockwood-USA TODAY Sports

The Third Saturday in October… a nickname for one of college football’s most storied rivalries.  One that will be played out once again this Saturday in Tuscaloosa and one that Southbound and Down doesn’t want you to miss.

It’s tradition. The victory cigar and two schools whose love for football is only separated by 315 miles and a state border. Enter Alabama-Tennessee, one of America’s favorite southern-fried rivalries.

Tennessee has been searching for its first victory in the series for a long time. The Vols hope to finally find it this Saturday at Bryant-Denny Stadium.

Consequently, ‘Bama attempts to wash out the Vols for the ninth year in a row.

An upset could be deadly for the Crimson Tide. Obviously, the ‘Tide’s playoff hopes would take a major hit. To add to that, what ‘Bama fan could handle losses to Ole Miss and Tennessee in one season? I couldn’t name one.

What would the Paul Finebaum Show sound like next Monday? It almost makes one want to utter Rocky Top for the entertainment value.

Regardless, no one will be complaining at kickoff. Two talented teams who still sport SEC Championship hopes (no matter how small, Tennessee) should provide an exciting game. Talented players flood both sides of the sideline.

And also, who wouldn’t love some good ole’ fashioned tailgating and barbecue on a sunny Saturday deep down south? Count Southbound and Down in.

Next: Alabama: Offense