Tennessee football: Turning points and key moments in Vols’ 52-24 loss at Alabama Crimson Tide

With less than 10 minutes to go in the fourth quarter, Tennessee football only trailed the Alabama Crimson Tide by a touchdown. How could the Vols go from that to losing the game 52-24? Well, a few key things happened throughout the game. These were the turning points and key moments that dictated the outcome of UT’s loss to Alabama.

Back to back false starts after 3rd and 1 in the first half

This won’t get talked about as much because of the fourth quarter. However, the Vols forced a fumble and had the ball up 14-7 in the second quarter, and they brought up a 3rd and 1. Then they committed back to back false starts. This forced them to punt, and Alabama scored to tie it up. Those penalties cost them a chance to extend their lead and take control early.

Vols held to a field goal after a blocked punt

Down 21-14 in the second half, Tennessee football blocked a punt. They had a chance to tie it up. However, Alabama’s defense held and didn’t allow a first down. That forced the Vols to settle for a field goal. Although that cut the score to 21-17 in the third quarter, that was a win for Alabama. They withstood a crucial mistake, and the Vols failed to cash in on one.

Josh Heupel decides to punt on 4th and 1

By far the worst decision of Josh Heupel’s career on Rocky Top to this point, the Vols were trailing 24-17 late in the third quarter. They brought up a 4th and 1 near midfield. Heupel decided to take a delay of game and punt it. Alabama then marched 80 yards on 11 plays for a touchdown to go up 31-17. Heupel coached not to lose there, and that was a crucial mistake.

Bryce Young 65-yard pass to Jameson Williams on 3rd and 15

Despite Heupel’s mistake, the Vols cut it to 31-24 thanks to a touchdown pass from Hendon Hooker to Cedric Tillman. They then brought up a 3rd and 15 on the next drive in the fourth quarter and could have gotten the ball back. However, Bryce Young found Jameson Williams for a 65-yard pass. Brian Robinson Jr. scored a touchdown on the next play to take control back.

Hendon Hooker pass intercepted by Jalyn Armour-Davis

After Alabama took control back, the Vols still had a chance to make it a game. However, on the next drive, it was 3rd and 3 at the Alabama 43. Hendon Hooker threw an interception to Jalyn Armour-Davis, who returned it 47 yards. Alabama scored five plays later to go up by three touchdowns and take complete control.

The Tide had another touchdown late to even cover the 25-point spread, but these players dictated the outcome. Tennessee football had a chance to keep it close late but just couldn’t cash in on Alabama’s miscues.