In Alabama Football’s two losses last season, its defense was found wanting. That was especially true in the Tennessee game when the Vols raced out to a 21-point first quarter. Tennessee scored touchdowns on its first two possessions and after an Alabama special teams mistake, scored another short-field TD.
In the game, the Vols rushed for 4.7 yards per carry and passed for 387 yards but Alabama outgained Tennessee, 569 yards to 567 yards. The Alabama football defense is blamed for the loss, but what really gave Tennessee the upset was the Crimson Tide’s penalties.
Alabama made 17 penalties, compared to six for Tennessee.