The top-ranked Alabama Crimson Tide went into their rivalry game with Tennessee expecting a big victory. However, the Tide only survived because of two blocked field goals in the final quarter.
Alabama's offense has struggled this year, and that pattern held true in the Tennessee game. The Tide's mediocre quarterback, Greg McElroy, completed 18 of 29 passes for only 120 yards and no touchdowns. The running game was a little more successful, as Heisman candidate Mark Ingram rushed 18 times for 99 yards. However, Bama still failed to score any touchdowns in the game, as their 12 points came entirely from Leigh Tiffin's field goals.
The Tide's top-ranked defense lived up to expectations. They held the Vols to only 79 rushing yards in the game. Montario Hardesty was held to 18 carries for 48 yards and a 2.7 average. However, QB Jonathan Crompton was a little more successful, completing 21 of 36 passes for 265 yards, one touchdown, and one interception.
Special teams ended up being the difference in the game, as Bama blocked two field goals in the fourth quarter. Without the two blocks, Tennessee would have won the game at least 13-12 (possibly 16-12). Big lineman Terrence Cody pushed through the line to block both field goals, as the two kicks were both low and right off of his arm. After the second block, Cody ran off the field, threw his helmet, and started celebrating while Nick Saban stood there with an expressionless face.
With the win, Alabama retains their perfect record for the season, but possibly not their respect in the polls. The AP Poll currently has the Tide at #1, but that may change depending on the outcome of the Florida-Mississippi State game tonight. Also, for the polls that don't have Bama at #1, Texas could possibly take over the #2 spot right behind the Gators.
