Tennessee vs. Alabama matchup highlights: Milroe, Tide steal first half in second half, come back to win rivalry

 

Light your cigars, Tide fans. It's safe to say you did a little better in this competition this year. 

 

 The rematch lived up to expectations after last year's last-minute loss to Tennessee. This time, Jalen Milroe and Alabama won 34-20  after a scoreless second half. It was a crucial win for a team looking to win the SEC West.

Tennessee seemed unstoppable in the first half. Joe Milton III scored a phenomenal touchdown in the series opener and then kicked two field goals to keep Alabama  scoreless. The Tide managed to score a touchdown before halftime, but the Vols followed  up and threw an interception that led to another touchdown. Tennessee led 20-7 at halftime. 

 

 But back on the field, Bama is doing what she does best.It scored 20 unanswered points on its next four drives; just an hour earlier, that seemed impossible for Milroe and Co. A fumble recovered by the Tide only confirmed their comeback would be successful, and eight minutes later it was final. 

 

 Milroe ended with 220 passing yards, while Milton had his second-best performance of the season with 271 yards. 

 

 With its second conference loss, Tennessee has an uphill climb to win the SEC East. It will need to win out and hope Georgia loses an SEC game.

 

 On the other hand, Alabama's playoff hopes are alive and well. Although they are still coming off a loss to Texas, they are undefeated in conference play. There will be an off week next week, but the Tide will host LSU on November 4th and will likely determine the winner of the SEC West.

There's a lot to do against Jayden Daniels, but Nick Saban offered an important reminder in his return: Don't ignore the Tide.