A top-15 SEC clash takes center stage on Saturday night as the No. 6 Alabama Crimson Tide (5-1, 3-0 SEC) host the No. 11 Tennessee Volunteers (5-1, 2-1 SEC) at Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. ET, promising another intense edition of one of the conference’s most heated rivalries.
How to Watch Alabama vs. Tennessee
- Date: Saturday, October 18, 2025
- Kickoff Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
- TV Channel: ESPN
- Location: Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium (Tuscaloosa, Alabama)
Game Odds (via ESPN BET)
- Spread: Alabama -9.5
- Total (Over/Under): 59.5 points
- Opening Line: Alabama -7.5 | Total 60.5
- Moneyline: Not currently listed
Alabama enters as a near double-digit favorite, though both teams have shown the ability to score quickly — setting up a potential offensive shootout under the lights in Tuscaloosa.
Game Preview
This SEC showdown features two powerhouse programs with matching 5-1 records and championship ambitions. Alabama remains undefeated in conference play and looks to stay in control of the SEC West, while Tennessee aims to snap its road losing streak in this rivalry and make a statement in the East Division race.
The Crimson Tide are coming off a statement win over Vanderbilt, while Tennessee rebounded from a tough early loss with back-to-back victories powered by their balanced offense and opportunistic defense.
Key Matchups and Players to Watch
Quarterbacks
- Tennessee: J. Aguilar – 1,680 passing yards, 14 TDs, 5 INT
- Alabama: T. Simpson – 1,678 passing yards, 16 TDs, 1 INT
Aguilar has shown excellent poise in high-pressure games, while Simpson continues to be one of the SEC’s most efficient passers with just one interception through six games.
Running Backs
- Tennessee: D. Bishop – 481 yards, 5 TDs
- Alabama: J. Miller – 267 yards, 1 TD
Bishop’s explosive speed has helped Tennessee’s offense stay dynamic, while Miller provides steady production for the Crimson Tide backfield.
Top Receivers
- Tennessee: C. Brazzell II – 536 yards, 7 TDs
- Alabama: G. Bernard – 412 yards, 5 TDs
Both receivers are key red-zone targets, and their ability to stretch the field could define this matchup.
Defensive Leaders
- Tennessee: T. West – 4 sacks
- Alabama: L. Overton – 3 sacks
With two potent passing attacks on display, pressure from the defensive line will be crucial to forcing mistakes and limiting big plays.
Series and Rivalry Outlook
The Alabama–Tennessee rivalry, known as the “Third Saturday in October”, remains one of the most storied traditions in college football. Alabama has dominated the series in recent years, but Tennessee’s resurgence under its current coaching staff has made this a marquee matchup once again.
A win for Alabama would reinforce its playoff credentials, while Tennessee could vault into the top 10 with an upset in Tuscaloosa.
Prediction
Both teams bring elite offenses and strong quarterback play, but Alabama’s defense and home-field advantage should give them the edge. Expect Tennessee to keep it close early before the Crimson Tide pull away late.
Projected Score: Alabama 35, Tennessee 27