The 2022 Tennessee-Alabama football game, played on October 15, 2022, stands as one of the most thrilling and historic matchups in college football history. Ending a 15-year losing streak, Tennessee secured a 52–49 victory over Alabama, a win that not only broke the streak but also delivered a game for the ages.
The game was a high-scoring affair, with both teams combining for over 1,000 total yards and 101 points—the most ever in the Tennessee-Alabama rivalry. The Volunteers’ offense was explosive, with quarterback Hendon Hooker throwing for 385 yards and five touchdowns, all to wide receiver Jalin Hyatt, who amassed 207 receiving yards and set a school record with five touchdown receptions. This performance was particularly remarkable given that Alabama’s defense had been allowing just 12.5 points per game up to that point.(ncaa.com, sports.yahoo.com)
Alabama, led by quarterback Bryce Young, also had a strong offensive showing, with Young passing for 455 yards and two touchdowns. However, the Crimson Tide’s defense struggled to contain Tennessee’s fast-paced offense, and the team committed a record 17 penalties for 130 yards, contributing to their downfall.(
The game’s climax came in the final seconds. After Alabama missed a 50-yard field goal attempt, Hooker orchestrated a quick drive, setting up Tennessee kicker Chase McGrath for a 40-yard field goal attempt as time expired. McGrath’s kick, though wobbling, sailed through the uprights, securing the victory and sending the Neyland Stadium crowd into a frenzy.
This victory was not just a win on the scoreboard; it was a statement. It marked Tennessee’s first win over Alabama since 2006 and ended a 15-game losing streak against the Crimson Tide. The win propelled Tennessee into the national spotlight and was a defining moment in the careers of Hooker and Hyatt.
The game’s significance was further underscored by the post-game celebrations. Fans rushed the field, tore down the goalposts, and even tossed them into the Tennessee River, leading to a $100,000 fine from the Southeastern Conference for the university. Despite the fine, the celebration was a testament to the magnitude of the victory and the joy it brought to Volunteers fans.
In the years since, the 2022 Tennessee-Alabama game has been remembered as one of the greatest in college football history. It was a game that showcased the unpredictability and excitement of the sport, with dramatic plays, record-breaking performances, and a thrilling finish. For Tennessee, it was a long-awaited triumph that reignited the passion of their fanbase and reaffirmed their place among college football’s elite programs.(22 Tennessee-Alabama game was more than just a football game; it was a historic event that will be remembered for years to come. It encapsulated the essence of college football—intensity, rivalry, and unforgettable moments. For Tennessee, it was a victory that ended a long drought and marked the beginning of a new era in their football program.
