No. 14 Tennessee carries a 5-1 record into its Saturday showdown against No. 7 Alabama at Neyland Stadium, with kickoff set for 3:30 p.m. EDT on ABC, according to Vols Wire. The Southeastern Conference rivalry clash marks the latest chapter of the Third Saturday in October series, broadcast nationally with Sean McDonough on play-by-play, Greg McElroy as analyst, and Katie George reporting from the sideline.
Faizon Brandon Availability Status Update for Saturday
Freshman quarterback Faizon Brandon is available to play against the Crimson Tide after missing last week’s victory at Arkansas. Brandon was absent from the SEC availability report issued Friday night, clearing him to return from a shoulder injury sustained during a loss to Texas last month.
Through six starts this season, Brandon has completed 61 of 101 passes for 697 yards, throwing seven touchdowns against one interception while adding 130 rushing yards and three scores on the ground. Despite his removal from the Friday availability list, Josh Heupel acknowledged that the exact scope of Brandon’s playing time against Alabama remains unclear.
George MacIntyre prepares to start after facing Arkansas
George MacIntyre is expected to get the start for the second straight game after stepping in during the second quarter of a 24-14 win over Auburn and making his first career start against the Razorbacks. MacIntyre completed 18 of 29 passes for 247 yards with a touchdown, two interceptions, and a fumble lost in Fayetteville.
Brandon increased his practice participation this week, throwing during a Tuesday workout for the first time since the Texas game. Heupel stated after the Arkansas matchup that MacIntyre knew he was starting the game last Monday, while Brandon remained sidelined from team reps due to his shoulder.
Crimson Tide rules out Racin Delgatty with injuries
The Crimson Tide ruled out starting center Racin Delgatty after downgrading him from doubtful, while linebacker Justin Hill is listed as probable and tight end Josh Ford carries a questionable designation.
The visitors previously ruled out wide receiver Ryan Coleman-Williams after his injury against Georgia last week. Additional long-term injuries on the Tennessee sideline include offensive lineman Wendell Moe Jr., who suffered a season-ending lower-body injury against Texas, alongside six other players previously ruled out for the year.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Third Saturday in October
What time does the Tennessee-Alabama game start?
Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. EDT on Saturday at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville.
Which television network is broadcasting the game?
ABC holds the broadcast rights for the matchup, featuring Sean McDonough, Greg McElroy, and Katie George on the call.
When was the mandatory SEC availability reporting policy established?
The SEC instituted mandatory public availability reports for football, basketball, and baseball beginning with the 2024-25 athletics calendar.
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