Alabama Football: Must win matchups for Saturday’s Game vs. Tennessee

When Saturday’s Showdown kicks off in Tuscaloosa, The Crimson Tide will be seeking revenge after last year’s loss in Knoxville. The loss marked Alabama Football’s first loss to the Volunteers since 2006’s matchup. This year’s game between the two rivals will look much different than last year’s 52-49 scoring extravaganza. For Alabama Football to come out on top this season there is three massive matchups Alabama must win in order to avenge their 2022 loss.

Jalen Milroe versus Joe Milton

Last season saw Bryce Young and Hendon Hooker combine for 840 yards passing and 7 touchdowns. This year’s matchup will be a battle of ball control as both offenses have new quarterbacks at the helm. Both Jalen Milroe and Joe Milton have shown they can complete the deep ball but have struggled in the intermediate passing game. Both team’s defense has become the strong suit as outside of the Florida Gators the Tennessee defense has held every team to 20 points or less. As both teams offensively become run-first teams, when it comes time to complete a big third down pass whichever team’s quarterback is able to complete the intermediate passes at a higher rate will certainly win this game.

On the season Jalen Milroe has shown growth limiting his turnovers to 2 over his last 4 games. Joe Milton is coming off his worst performance of the season throwing a touchdown and an interception while being held to 11-22 passing and only 100 yards passing. The Alabama Football defense and the Volunteers defense may be the toughest defenses both quarterbacks will face.