Alabama and Tennessee Clash in 108th Rivalry Showdown Tonight

The longstanding rivalry between Alabama and Tennessee takes center stage tonight, October 18, 2025, as the teams meet for the 108th time in Tuscaloosa. This annual matchup, known as the “Third Saturday in October,” is a highlight of the Southeastern Conference (SEC) football calendar. Both teams enter the game with identical records of 5-1 and rankings within the Top 15, adding extra significance to this year’s contest.

Kickoff is set for 19:30 Eastern Time on ABC. Currently, Alabama holds the No. 6 ranking, aiming to extend its home winning streak against Tennessee to 11 games. The No. 11 Volunteers, on the other hand, seek to overcome a two-decade winning drought at Bryant-Denny Stadium.

Streaming Options and Key Players

Viewers can catch the game live through several streaming services, including FuboTV (offering a free trial), DIRECTV (also with a free trial), and Sling, which has promotional offers starting at $4.99. Both teams boast high-powered offenses and star quarterbacks poised to deliver an exciting game.

Alabama’s quarterback, Ty Simpson, and Tennessee’s Joey Aguilar have combined for over 3,300 passing yards and 30 touchdowns this season, promising a high-scoring affair. Tennessee leads the nation in scoring offense, while Alabama features one of the most efficient passing attacks in college football. A victory for Alabama would bolster its status as a contender for the College Football Playoff, while a win for Tennessee could propel them into the top 10, reaffirming their position as a potential SEC title challenger.

Recent Performances and Key Statistics

In its last outing, Alabama narrowly defeated Missouri 27-24, with Simpson throwing for 200 yards and three touchdowns. Jamarion Miller contributed 85 rushing yards but left the game with a concussion, while wide receiver Ryan Williams was limited due to injury. Tennessee, meanwhile, edged past Arkansas 34-31, with Aguilar passing for 221 yards and a touchdown, and DeSean Bishop rushing for a career-high 146 yards before leaving with an injury.

Key players for Alabama include:

• Ty Simpson (QB): 1,678 yards, 16 TDs, 1 INT; Heisman contender
• Germie Bernard (WR): 412 yards, 5 TDs; reliable deep threat
• Jamarion Miller (RB): 267 yards; status questionable due to concussion
• Deontae Lawson (LB): Team captain with 25 tackles
• Bray Hubbard (DB): Leads team with 3 interceptions

For Tennessee, the key players include:

• Joey Aguilar (QB): 1,680 yards, 14 TDs; leads SEC in passing yards
• Chris Brazzell II (WR): 536 yards, 7 TDs; top scoring receiver in FBS
• DeSean Bishop (RB): 481 yards, 5 TDs; injury status uncertain
• Arion Carter (LB): Team leader with 60 tackles
• Colton Hood (DB): Emerging star in the secondary

The broadcast will feature ESPN’s No. 2 crew, with Sean McDonough providing play-by-play commentary, accompanied by analyst Greg McElroy, a former Alabama quarterback, and sideline reporter Molly McGrath.

As for the betting odds, as of Friday afternoon, Tennessee is a +8.5 underdog with a moneyline of +245, while Alabama stands at -8.5 with a moneyline of -305, according to DraftKings.

This evening’s contest between Alabama and Tennessee promises to deliver an electrifying atmosphere and high-stakes football, continuing a storied tradition in college sports. Whether you are a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, the game is set to be a captivating event in the 2025 college football season.