We are all ready to dive into week 8 of college football. The Tennessee Volunteers are going against the Crimson Tide at their home in Knoxville. The great rivalry will be renewed for the 107 time on the third Saturday of this month. Alabama Crimson Tide has yet to pass their eye test since knocking off Georgia. It hasn’t been smooth for Kalen DeBoer and company. Things have been quite messy for the Vols, too. History has been on Bama’s side, with the program record of 60-39-7, dating to 1901.

The Knoxville battle will take place at Neyland Stadium in Tennessee. Both the rivals will be entering with the same overall record halfway through the regular season of 5-1. And only one of them will leave Knoxville, either ruining or improving it. Ah! The chills. Bama, since the big win against its rivals (Georgia), things haven’t gone well. First, the upset against Vanderbilt on week 6, and then barely escaped another upset bid from South Carolina on Saturday in Tuscaloosa.  Former coach Urban Meyer, on his ‘The Triple Option’ podcast, said, “They are in reverse right now” for the Vols. He pointed out the offensive struggles of the Volunteers in their previous SEC game. The super competitive game will be all over on ABC, and more fun will be provided by Sean McDonough, Greg McElroy, and Molly McGrath on the headset.

Sean McDonough and Greg McElroy on the Headset

When you tune into a game called by Sean McDonough, you know you’re getting the voice of a seasoned broadcaster with deep roots in sports media. McDonough began his career calling Boston Red Sox games in 1988 and has since called major events like the World Series, NCAA tournaments, and even Monday Night Football.

His versatility is unmatched, and his no-nonsense, clear style has made him a staple at ESPN since 2000. Not only is broadcasting in his blood. His father, Will McDonough, was a legendary NFL reporter. He has been at the mic for some of the most iconic moments in sports, like Syracuse’s six-overtime win over UConn in 2009.

On the other side of the duo, Greg McElroy brings the insights of a former college quarterback to the table. A standout at Alabama, McElroy led the Crimson Tide to a national championship in 2009 before transitioning into broadcasting with ESPN. Known for his sharp football IQ and ability to break down complex plays, McElroy has become a go-to analyst for college football fans. What sets him apart is not just his analytical prowess but also his charisma. He has a way of making even the most technical aspects of football relatable to the average viewer.

What is going on in Alabama?

To make things clear. Bama’s offensive line is impressive, no offence in that. But they are squeaking by in games it used to control effortlessly. Look at their recent narrow victory against South Carolina. It highlighted glaring issues that have plagued the Tide throughout the season. Inconsistent play from quarterback Jalen Milroe has left the offense stagnant, and while the team boasts athleticism and talent, they’ve struggled to translate it into dominant, high-scoring performances. The cracks in their armor are showing, and opponents are beginning to exploit them, especially against a defense that lacks its usual bite.

The fact that Bama isn’t struggling in just one game or one position is even more worrying. Penalties and turnovers have crippled their momentum, and while their defense has managed to hold on, it hasn’t been as impenetrable as in previous years. This means it’s not going to be a walk in the park for Bama, even with prodigal wideout like Ryan Williams on their side. A lot will be at stake for both Alabama and Tennessee going into this matchup.