Before Alabama lost, it didn’t feel like an “anything could happen” season.
There have been various upsets this season that have also surprised teams like Kansas, Syracuse and Illinois. But Alabama has always sat near the top and has avoided two upsets. There are only so many chances to defeat the Red Tide.
But seven weeks into the season, a third team got a chance, and Tennessee didn’t miss it. The Vols became an instant classic with a 52-49 victory, putting Tennessee at No. 1 after the best win of any team of the season. Number one in this week’s The Athletic 131.
Vols has a good example. 1 if anyone. Georgia destroyed Oregon, but also nearly lost to Missouri.