Alabama and Tennessee Clash in High-Stakes SEC Showdown

The highly anticipated football rivalry between Alabama and Tennessee unfolds today, October 18, 2025, at Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. This matchup, known as the “Third Saturday in October,” marks its 108th edition and features both teams ranked in the Top 15, with identical records of 5-1. The game kicks off at 19:30 Eastern Time, broadcasted nationally on ABC.

Alabama, currently ranked No. 6, aims to enhance its impressive home winning streak over Tennessee to 11 games. Meanwhile, the No. 11 Volunteers seek to break a two-decade drought at this venue. With both teams showcasing potent offenses, fans can expect an exhilarating contest.

Several streaming services are offering options to watch the game live. Viewers can access the match on FuboTV (free trial), DIRECTV (free trial), Sling TV (promotional offers as low as $4.99), and ESPN.

Key Players and Recent Performances

Both teams feature standout quarterbacks who have excelled this season. Alabama’s Ty Simpson and Tennessee’s Joey Aguilar have collectively thrown for over 3,300 yards and 30 touchdowns in just six games. Alabama boasts the nation’s second-best passing efficiency, while Tennessee leads in scoring offense, setting the stage for a thrilling shootout.

In their last outings, Alabama narrowly defeated Missouri 27-24, with Simpson throwing for 200 yards and three touchdowns. The victory was highlighted by a crucial fourth-down touchdown pass to Daniel Hill. Conversely, Tennessee edged past Arkansas with a 34-31 victory, thanks to Aguilar’s 221 passing yards and a strong rushing performance from DeSean Bishop, who recorded a career-high 146 yards before exiting with an injury.

Both teams’ offensive arsenals promise to entertain. Alabama’s key players include:

– **Ty Simpson (QB)**: 1,678 yards, 16 touchdowns, 1 interception.
– **Germie Bernard (WR)**: 412 yards, 5 touchdowns.
– **Jamarion Miller (RB)**: 267 yards (status questionable due to concussion).
– **Deontae Lawson (LB)**: Team captain with 25 tackles.
– **Bray Hubbard (DB)**: Leads the team with 3 interceptions.

Tennessee counters with:

– **Joey Aguilar (QB)**: 1,680 yards, 14 touchdowns, leading the SEC in passing.
– **Chris Brazzell II (WR)**: 536 yards, 7 touchdowns, the top scoring receiver in FBS.
– **DeSean Bishop (RB)**: 481 yards, 5 touchdowns (injury status uncertain).
– **Arion Carter (LB)**: Team leader with 60 tackles and 6.5 tackles for loss.
– **Colton Hood (DB)**: Emerging talent in the secondary.

Broadcast Details and Betting Odds

The game will feature ESPN’s No. 2 announcing crew, with Sean McDonough on play-by-play, joined by analyst Greg McElroy, a former Alabama quarterback, and Molly McGrath on the sidelines.

As for the latest betting odds, as of Friday afternoon, they stand at Tennessee (+8.5, -115) and Alabama (-8.5, -105) on the spread. The moneyline odds are Tennessee (+245) and Alabama (-305), according to DraftKings.

Fans eager to catch the action can explore various streaming options. Here’s a quick overview:

– **FuboTV**: Offers a free trial and three main packages. The Pro package costs $79.99/month, while Elite is $89.99, and Premier is at $99.99.
– **DIRECTV**: Also provides a free trial, with packages ranging from $69.99 to $159.99/month after the trial.
– **Sling TV**: Features a Day Pass for $4.99 and a Weekend Pass for $9.99, among other options.
– **ESPN**: Offers Select and Unlimited plans for $11.99 and $29.99 per month, respectively.

This showdown between Alabama and Tennessee promises to be a highlight of the college football season, with implications that could reshape the landscape of the SEC and beyond. The stage is set for an unforgettable encounter in Tuscaloosa.