From the Sideline — Tennessee Still Matters

Over the past seven years, when you start talking big games in the regular season for Alabama, the conversation has usually began with LSU.

Auburn is in a separate category. And this season’s early rematch with Texas A&M and Manziel was the exception to the LSU-rule.

Because of Tennessee’s demise, and partly due to Alabama’s domination in the series, “The Third Saturday in October” has not been on the forefront of many Bama fans’ minds.

However, that changes during game week.

Once we got to Wednesday, it was clear that this rivalry still has meaning. It still has passion.

It still has hate.

Okay, maybe that’s a little strong. But I don’t think it’s too far off base.

Tide fans relished the fact that they were four touchdown favorites going in, and as the cigar-smoke cloud that hung over Tuscaloosa Saturday would indicate, they were more than thrilled that Bama easily exceeded expectations.

Until the Vols actually beat Alabama again, this won’t be the game most of Bama Nation will point to all season long. But for now, at least on game week, Tennessee still matters.