Former Tennessee Vol flips to the other side of the Third Saturday in October rivalry
A former Vol is heading to play for Tennessee’s biggest rival in 2026.
There are very few rules in the new college football transfer portal world we live in now. That applies to both written and unwritten — or perhaps unspoken — rules.
While college football players are essentially free agents every year, there’s still a better aftertaste for fans when some players leave town for certain places. And for Tennessee fans, the biggest no-no is ending up in Tuscaloosa, Alabama after being in Knoxville. Former Tennessee Vols LB Henry To’oTo’o is one that comes to mind for many Vol fans.
However, another will apparently be donning the crimson jersey and helmet this fall. Former Tennessee RB Khalifa Keith is transferring from Appalachian State to Alabama, per On3 Sports’ Hayes Fawcett.
Former Tennessee running back Khalifa Keith transferring to Alabama from Appalachian State
It’s hard to see Keith being anything more than a depth option for the Crimson Tide, as he joins an already crowded running back group for 2026. And his career totals haven’t warranted any belief that he’ll come in and be a substantial role player for the Tide.
At Tennessee, Keith appeared in 12 games for the Vols in 2023, but that came primarily in a special teams role, as he totaled just 24 rushing yards on 11 carries. In 2024, he appeared in four games with 21 carries for 100 yards and a touchdown. He announced on December 4, 2024 that he was entering the portal and ultimately chose the Mountaineers.
His playing time last year at Appalachian State was basically none, at least on offense. Appearing in six games, he totaled three carries for eight yards for the season.
Tennessee fans shouldn’t expect to see Keith come in and tote the rock much against the Vols when Alabama comes to Neyland Stadium on October 17. However, it won’t be lost on some of his former teammates to see him standing on the other sideline as the Crimson Tide try to claim their first win in Knoxville since 2020.
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