Alabama and Tennessee Clash in Rivalry Showdown Tonight

The highly anticipated college football rivalry between the Alabama Crimson Tide and the Tennessee Volunteers resumes tonight, October 18, 2025, in Tuscaloosa. This matchup marks the 108th meeting between the two SEC teams, known as the “Third Saturday in October.” Kickoff is scheduled for 19:30 Eastern Time on ABC, and the stakes are high with both teams ranked in the Top 15 and holding identical records of 5-1.

This year’s contest carries significant implications. The No. 6 Alabama looks to extend its impressive home winning streak against Tennessee to 11 games. Meanwhile, the No. 11 Volunteers aim to end a two-decade drought at Bryant-Denny Stadium. The game promises to be a thrilling encounter, showcasing two potent offenses led by standout quarterbacks.

Both teams feature quarterbacks who rank among the nation’s best. Ty Simpson of Alabama and Joey Aguilar of Tennessee have collectively thrown for over 3,300 yards and 30 touchdowns this season. Alabama’s offense is particularly known for its efficiency, while Tennessee boasts the top scoring offense in the nation. A victory for Alabama would bolster its chances for the College Football Playoff, while Tennessee could break into the top ten and solidify its status as an SEC contender.

Alabama enters the game following a nail-biting 27-24 victory over Missouri last week. Simpson threw for 200 yards and three touchdowns, including a pivotal fourth-down conversion to Daniel Hill. Jamarion Miller contributed with 85 rushing yards but is questionable for tonight’s game due to a concussion. On the other hand, Tennessee narrowly defeated Arkansas 34-31, with Aguilar passing for 221 yards and a touchdown. DeSean Bishop had a standout performance with 146 rushing yards before leaving the game with an injury.

Key Players to Watch

For Alabama, key players include:
– **Ty Simpson (QB)**: 1,678 yards, 16 touchdowns, and 1 interception; a frontrunner for the Heisman Trophy.
– **Germie Bernard (WR)**: 412 yards and 5 touchdowns; a reliable deep threat.
– **Deontae Lawson (LB)**: Team captain with 25 tackles, serving as a defensive anchor.
– **Bray Hubbard (DB)**: Leads the team with 3 interceptions.

Tennessee’s notable players are:
– **Joey Aguilar (QB)**: 1,680 yards and 14 touchdowns; leads the SEC in passing yards.
– **Chris Brazzell II (WR)**: 536 yards and 7 touchdowns; the top scoring receiver in the FBS.
– **Arion Carter (LB)**: Team leader with 60 tackles and 6.5 tackles for loss.

Viewing Options and Broadcast Details

Fans can catch the action on various streaming platforms, including FuboTV, DIRECTV, Sling, and ESPN. FuboTV offers a free trial and features packages starting at $64.99 monthly. DIRECTV also has a free trial with packages beginning at $69.99 per month. Sling TV provides flexible options, with promotional offers starting as low as $4.99.

The broadcast team for the game includes Sean McDonough for play-by-play commentary, with analysis from Greg McElroy, a former Alabama quarterback, and sideline reporting by Molly McGrath.

As the Crimson Tide and Volunteers prepare to clash, this matchup is anticipated to be one of the most exciting encounters of the college football season. With both teams showcasing high-powered offenses and star players, fans can expect a memorable showdown in Tuscaloosa tonight.