You couldn’t script a better night for Tennessee football . College GameDay was in town, it was a top 10 matchup, and the foe was the Alabama Crimson Tide. In the process, UT put together a thrilling game to finish with a 52-49 win, their first in the series after a 15-game losing streak.
It was indeed historic, and fans rushed the field afterward. Every part of this game was legendary, and it’s one that Vol fans will be telling their grandkids about. Honestly, this may be the biggest win of the century at the very least. Only 2001 at the Florida Gators competes.
The nature of all this made for many memorable moments, ones that Vol Nation will want to look back on forever. Let’s provide that opportunity here. This is our photo gallery in Tennessee football’s huge win over Alabama, and we start with the photo of the year, Peyton Manning enjoying a victory cigar with the player of the game, Jalin Hyatt.
A young fan during the Vol Walk before Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Kns Ut Bama Football Vol Walk Bp Scenes from the Vol Walk before Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Kns Ut Bama Football Vol Walk Bp Tennessee head football coach Josh Heupel during the Vol Walk before Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Kns Ut Bama Football Vol Walk Bp Tennessee defensive lineman Bryson Eason (20) during the Vol Walk before Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Kns Ut Bama Football Vol Walk Bp Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) during Vol Walk before Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Kns Ut Bama Football Vol Walk Bp Fans cheer during the Vol Walk before Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Kns Ut Bama Football Vol Walk Bp Chris Pollard of Watertown, Tenn., during the Vol Walk before Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Kns Ut Bama Football Vol Walk Bp Scenes from the Vol Walk before Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Kns Ut Bama Football Vol Walk Bp Scenes during the Vol Walk before a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 0777 Scenes during the Vol Walk before a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 0413 Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; General view before the game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Alabama Crimson Tide at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Fans during the Vol Walk before Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Kns Ut Bama Football Vol Walk Bp Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) during Vol Walk before Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Kns Ut Bama Football Vol Walk Bp Chris Pollard of Watertown, Tenn., during the Vol Walk before Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Kns Ut Bama Football Vol Walk Bp Fans wait for the Vol Walk before Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Kns Ut Bama Football Vol Walk Bp Fans during the Vol Walk before Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Kns Ut Bama Football Vol Walk Bp Scenes during the Vol Walk before a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 0461 Scenes during the Vol Walk before a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 0769 DJ Sterl The Pearl gets excited before during a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 0019 A Tennessee cheerleader smiles towards the crowd during the Vol Walk before a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 0667 Scenes during the Vol Walk before a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 0281 Scenes during the Vol Walk before a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 0738 Scenes during the Vol Walk before a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 0143 Vol and Crimson Tide fans chat during the Vol Walk before a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 0520 Scenes during the Vol Walk before a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 0371 Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee fans gather before the game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Alabama Crimson Tide at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Scenes during the Vol Walk before a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 0405 Scenes during the Vol Walk before a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 0683 Scenes during the Vol Walk before a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 0348 Fans pose with a Tennessee garden gnome during the Vol Walk before a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 0076 Scenes during the Vol Walk before a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 0270 Scenes during the Vol Walk before a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 0840 The Volunteer cheers on the crowd during the Vol Walk before a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 0652 Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; General view before the game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Alabama Crimson Tide at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Scenes during the Vol Walk before a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 0812 Scenes during the Vol Walk before a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 0470 Scenes during the Vol Walk before a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 0256 Scenes during the Vol Walk before a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 0514 Scenes during the Vol Walk before a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 0194 Fans pose with their sign during the Vol Walk before a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 0045 Cooper Mays walks in during the Vol Walk before a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 0426 Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Bryce Young (9) warms up before the game against the Tennessee Volunteers at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Bryce Young (9) warms up before the game against the Tennessee Volunteers at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) warms up before the game against the Alabama Crimson Tide at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Tennessee tight end Miles Campbell (86) before Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Kns Ut Bama Football Vol Walk Bp Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) before Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Kns Ut Bama Football Vol Walk Bp Tennessee wide receivers warm up before Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Kns Ut Bama Football Vol Walk Bp Tennessee fans in the stands during a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 1355 A Tennessee fan decked out in gear during a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 1522 Alabama linebacker Henry To’o To’o during warmups before a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 1110 Crimson Tide share a laugh during a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 1256 Tennessee fans in the stands during a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 1584 A Tennessee fan waves a flag during a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 1168 Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) shakes hands with Peyton Manning’s son Marshall Manning before Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Kns Ut Bama Football Vol Walk Bp Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide running back Jahmyr Gibbs (1) scores a touchdown against the Tennessee Volunteers during the first quarter at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers running back Jabari Small (2) celebrates after running for a touchdown against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the first quarter at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers running back Jabari Small (2) celebrates after running for a touchdown against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the first quarter at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) passes the ball against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the first quarter at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Bryce Young (9) calls out a play against the Tennessee Volunteers during the first quarter at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Bryce Young (9) looks to pass the ball against the Tennessee Volunteers during the first quarter at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide wide receiver Ja’Corey Brooks (7) runs the ball against the Tennessee Volunteers during the first quarter at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers wide receiver Ramel Keyton (80) runs the ball against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the first quarter at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) looks to pass the ball against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the first quarter at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Bryce Young (9) has trouble with the snap during the first quarter against the Tennessee Volunteers at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers wide receiver Jalin Hyatt (11) catches a pass for a touchdown against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the first quarter at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers wide receiver Jalin Hyatt (11) catches a pass for a touchdown against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the first quarter at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers running back Jaylen Wright (20) runs the ball against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the first quarter at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide running back Jahmyr Gibbs (1) scores a touchdown against the Tennessee Volunteers during the first quarter at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers tight end Princeton Fant (88) scores a touchdown against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the first half at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide head coach Nick Saban reacts during the first half against the Tennessee Volunteers at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers defensive back Christian Charles (14) and offensive lineman Ollie Lane (78) celebrate recovering a kickoff against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the first half at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers defensive back Christian Charles (14) celebrates recovering a kickoff against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the first half at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers mascot Smokey during the first quarter against the Alabama Crimson Tide at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers wide receiver Jalin Hyatt (11) after scoring a touchdown against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the first quarter at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers head coach Josh Heupel during the first quarter against the Alabama Crimson Tide at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Alabama linebacker Henry To’o To’o (10) nearly intercepts a pass during Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Kns Ut Bama Football Bp Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) runs past Alabama linebacker Henry To’o To’o (10) and Alabama defensive lineman Jaheim Oatis (91) during Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Kns Ut Bama Football Bp Tennessee linebacker Jeremy Banks (33) takes down Alabama running back Jahmyr Gibbs (1) during Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Kns Ut Bama Football Bp Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) during Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Kns Ut Bama Football Bp Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers tight end Princeton Fant (88) celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the first half at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) smiles after a Tennessee touchdown during Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Kns Ut Bama Football Bp Tennessee wide receiver Ramel Keyton (80) tries to shake off multiple Alabama defenders during a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 4157 Tennessee wide receiver Jalin Hyatt (11) celebrates during a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 3369 Tennessee wide receiver Jalin Hyatt (11) celebrates a touchdown with teammates during a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 3871 Alabama running back Jahmyr Gibbs (1) runs past Tennessee defensive back Christian Charles (14) during Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Kns Ut Bama Football Bp Tennessee wide receiver Ramel Keyton (80) escapes Alabama defenders during Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Kns Ut Bama Football Bp Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) runs with the ball during Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Kns Ut Bama Football Bp Alabama running back Jahmyr Gibbs (1) runs past Tennessee defensive back Christian Charles (14) during Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Kns Ut Bama Football BpSyndication The Knoxville News Sentinel Tennessee tight end Princeton Fant (88) celebrates a touchdown reception during a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 3797 Tennessee fans in the stands during a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 3870 Alabama running back Jahmyr Gibbs (1) looks for yards during a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 2519 Tennessee running back Jabari Small (2) fights through contact from Alabama defensive back Jordan Battle (9) during a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 3198 Tennessee running back Jabari Small (2) celebrates after running in a touchdown during a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 3256 Alabama defensive back Khyree Jackson (6) on the4 sidelines after a timeout during a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 3011 Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers wide receiver Jalin Hyatt (11) runs for a touchdown against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the second half at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers tight end Princeton Fant (88) scores a two point conversion against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the second half at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Bryce Young (9) has trouble with the snap during the first quarter against the Tennessee Volunteers at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers head coach Josh Heupel during the second half against the Alabama Crimson Tide at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers head coach Josh Heupel during the second half against the Alabama Crimson Tide at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers wide receiver Jalin Hyatt (11) runs for a touchdown against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the second half at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers running back Jabari Small (2) runs the ball against Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Jordan Battle (9) during the second half at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers defensive back De’Shawn Rucker (28) during the second half against the Alabama Crimson Tide at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers linebacker Jeremy Banks (33) tackles Alabama Crimson Tide running back Jahmyr Gibbs (1) during the second half at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide wide receiver Kobe Prentice (80) runs the ball against Tennessee Volunteers defensive back De’Shawn Rucker (28) during the second half at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide running back Jahmyr Gibbs (1) runs the ball against the Tennessee Volunteers during the second half at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers wide receiver Jalin Hyatt (11) after scoring a touchdown against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the second half at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide wide receiver Jermaine Burton (3) catches a pass against Tennessee Volunteers defensive back Christian Charles (14) during the second half at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) celebrates with fans after Tennessee’s 52-49 win over Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 5568 1 Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Joe Milton III (7) reacts to a score against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the second half at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) smiles after a Tennessee touchdown during Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.RAnk 1 Kns Ut Bama Football Bp Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers place kicker Chase McGrath (40) kicks the game winning field goal against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the second half at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers fans rush the field after defeating the Alabama Crimson Tide at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers running back Jaylen Wright (20) runs the ball against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the second half at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers place kicker Chase McGrath (40) kicks the game winning field goal against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the second half at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers place kicker Chase McGrath (40) kicks the game winning field goal against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the second half at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers fans rush the field after defeating the Alabama Crimson Tide at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) smiles after a Tennessee touchdown during Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.RAnk 1 Kns Ut Bama Football Bp Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers fans rush the field after defeating the Alabama Crimson Tide at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers linebacker Solon Page III (38) reflects after defeating the Alabama Crimson Tide at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers fans rush the field after defeating the Alabama Crimson Tide at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers fans smoke cigars after defeating the Alabama Crimson Tide at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; A Tennessee Volunteers fan watches on his phone as fans tear down the goal posts after beating the Alabama Crimson Tide at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers fans tear down the goal posts after beating the Alabama Crimson Tide at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers fans tear down the goal posts after beating the Alabama Crimson Tide at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers fans tear down the goal posts after defeating the Alabama Crimson Tide at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers fans tear down the goal posts after beating the Alabama Crimson Tide at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers fans tear down the goal posts after beating the Alabama Crimson Tide at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers fans carry the goal posts after defeating the Alabama Crimson Tide at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers fans on the field after beating the Alabama Crimson Tide at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Fans tear down the goal post after Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Kns Ut Bama Football Bp A fan cheer after climbing the downed goal past after Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Kns Ut Bama Football Bp Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers fans tear down the goal posts after beating the Alabama Crimson Tide at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Fans and players celebrate after Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Kns Ut Bama Football Bp Fans storm the field after Tennessee’s 52-49 win over Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022Tennesseevsalabama1015 5314 Fans light up cigars after Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Kns Ut Bama Football Bp Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) exits the field after Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Kns Ut Bama Football Bp Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) celebrates with fans after Tennessee’s 52-49 win over Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 5568 A Tennessee fan poses with a piece of a torn down field goal after Tennessee’s 52-49 win over Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 6757 Fans storm the field after Tennessee’s 52-49 win over Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022Tennesseevsalabama1015 5397 Tennessee wide receiver Ramel Keyton (80) catches a reception over Alabama defensive back Terrion Arnold (3) during a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 6202 Fans storm the field after Tennessee’s 52-49 win over Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022Tennesseevsalabama1015 5464 Tennessee linebacker Solon Page III (38) soaks in the moment after Tennessee’s 52-49 win over Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 5501 A Tennessee fan gets detained during the commotion after Tennessee’s 52-49 win over Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 6821 Fans storm the field after Tennessee’s 52-49 win over Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022Tennesseevsalabama1015 5181 Tennessee placekicker JT Carver (41) smokes a cigar after Tennessee’s 52-49 win over Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 5248 Fans light up cigars after Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Kns Ut Bama Football Bp Alabama’s marching band listens to jeers from Tennessee fans after Tennessee’s 52-49 win over Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 6721 Tennessee wide receiver Squirrel White (10) smokes a cigar after Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Kns Ut Bama Football Bp Fans jump down to the field after Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Kns Ut Bama Football Bp Fans rush the field after Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Kns Ut Bama Football Bp Tennessee offensive lineman Javontez Spraggins (76) smokes a cigar after Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Kns Ut Bama Football Bp Fans move the goalpost across the field after Tennessee’s 52-49 win over Alabama in Neyland Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 5966 Tennessee wide receiver Jalin Hyatt (11) makes a catch during Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Kns Ut Bama Football Bp Tennessee defensive back Doneiko Slaughter (0) looks down over Alabama quarterback Bryce Young (9) during Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Kns Ut Bama Football Bp Fans light up cigars after Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Kns Ut Bama Football Bp Fans rush the field after Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Kns Ut Bama Football Bp Alabama’s marching band listens to jeers from Tennessee fans after Tennessee’s 52-49 win over Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 6721 1 Fans storm the field after Tennessee’s 52-49 win over Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022Tennesseevsalabama1015 5397 1 Fans storm the field after Tennessee’s 52-49 win over Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022Tennesseevsalabama1015 5464 1 Fans storm the field after Tennessee’s 52-49 win over Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022Tennesseevsalabama1015 5314 1 Tennessee wide receiver Ramel Keyton (80) catches a reception over Alabama defensive back Terrion Arnold (3) during a game between Tennessee and Alabama in Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Tennesseevsalabama1015 6202 1 Fans and players celebrate after Tennessee’s victory over Alabama.Syndication The Knoxville News Sentinel Fans move the goal post across the field after Tennessee’s 52-49 win over Alabama.Syndication The Knoxville News Sentinel Fans storm the field after Tennessee’s 52-49 win over Alabama.Syndication The Knoxville News Sentinel A goal post left in the south end zone is taken apart after Tennessee’s game against Alabama in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.Kns Ut Bama Football Bp Tennessee running back Jabari Small (2) fights through contact from Alabama defensive back Jordan Battle (9) during their game at Neyland Stadium, on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022.2022-10-15-alabama-defense Storming the field is obviously the story, as it’s the first time since 1998, when the Vols beat Florida, that they did so. Is that an omen for what will happen later this year since that’s the last time they won the national title? Well, that’s a bit of a stretch, but this win has to open up those possibilities going forward.
For now, though, the important thing is for fans to enjoy everything about this win, and there is a lot to enjoy about it. Beating Alabama at full strength in a vacuum is beyond impressive without all the historical significance. That such significance exists only adds to it.
Fans celebrating, some crying and the goalposts coming down are all going to be iconic images for the future. Tennessee football really did have a legendary night, and it lifted a decade and a half of frustration. Everybody deserves credit for this one, and it won’t be forgotten for a while.