Nick Saban has a much different tone about Tennessee this year than he normally does
Alabama Crimson Tide head coach Nick Saban has a much different tone when talking about the Tennessee Vols than he did two years ago when Jeremy Pruitt was the head coach. With previous head coaches, Saban always tried to talk Tennessee up a little. He'd talk about them "playing hard" or "building the program". Here […]
Alabama Crimson Tide head coach Nick Saban has a much different tone when talking about the Tennessee Vols than he did two years ago when Jeremy Pruitt was the head coach.
With previous head coaches, Saban always tried to talk Tennessee up a little. He'd talk about them "playing hard" or "building the program".
Here are Saban's comments after Alabama beat Tennessee in 2020.
Well, I think they have made progress. I think you look at what a team does down in, down out, how the players play. They’re playing with a lot of effort, toughness. They’re very well-coached. They’re in the right spots. But I think when you turn the ball over in this game — I don’t care if it’s us or them or whoever it is — it’s really hard to overcome.
Saban's comments this week about Tennessee, however, sound a little more serious. It feels like Saban recognizes that this Vols team, which is ranked No. 6 in the nation, is dangerous and more than capable of upsetting Alabama.
"We're gonna play a really good Tennessee team," said Saban this week. "This game means a lot to a lot of people in Alabama. It's kind of a rivalry game, and it's always been an important game for us. Tennessee's got an outstanding team. They're undefeated. Josh [Huepel] has done a really, really good job."
"Probably one of the most explosive offenses if not the most explosive offense in the country. They got really good wide receivers. Four guys have lots of production. They've got two really good running backs — lots of production. [Hendon] Hooker has really done a nice job of executing their offense….he has the ability to extend plays."
Saban always tries to respect his opponents. But you can tell the difference when he talks about an elite opponent and a non-elite opponent.
And it's clear from his comments that he thinks Tennessee is elite. You might even say there's a hint of concern in his voice.
If you're a Vols fan, this is what you've been waiting for — a Tennessee team that Saban feels can beat Alabama even if Alabama plays well.
It's alright to get hyped. These are the types of games Vols fans have been long for the last 15 years. Embrace it.
Featured image via USA TODAY Sports
