WATCH: Tennessee knocks off Alabama with game-winning field goal, remains undefeated
The Tennessee Volunteers remained undefeated after taking down Alabama with a game-winning field goal as time expired, 52-49. The kick came on the heels of a missed field goal by Alabama kicker Will Reichard that gave Tennessee the ball back with good field position and a tied game.
Hendon Hooker led his team down into field goal range and Chase McGrath hit his 40-yard attempt to win it.
The kick and camera angle combined for an extra layer of drama fitting the second half between the two undefeated SEC opponents, with the ball narrowly avoiding being blocked and knuckling through the air and through the goal posts.
Tennessee quickly stormed the field to celebrate the historic win for the program, taking down Alabama after losing the last 15 matchups — and never having defeated Nick Saban as the coach of the Crimson Tide. The win was also the first time Tennessee had taken down a top-five opponent after losing 28-straight, and the 6-0 start is the best start for the program since 1998.
On the field, the fans were given plenty to cheer about early on with the Volunteers building a 28-10 lead early in the second quarter. From there, former Heisman-winner Bryce Young stabilized Alabama and even jumped out to a lead in the second half. With the game tied at 42-42, Alabama picked up a fumbled handoff by Hendon Hooker and scored a defensive touchdown to take a seven-point lead.
Tennessee’s following possession nearly ended in disaster after a pass from Hooker was tipped and intercepted by Alabama in the end zone — only to get a second chance after a pass interference call against Alabama’s defense. With a second chance, Hooker delivered a touchdown strike to Jalin Hyatt for their fifth touchdown pass and catch of the game — a school record for Hyatt.
With the game tied, Tennessee’s fans had to watch as Alabama threatened to end the game with a field goal of their own — only for Will Reichard’s kick attempt to go wide right and give Tennessee the ball back with good field position and little time remaining. Hooker brought his team down into field goal range quickly and McGrath delivered the win with the 40-yard make.