Alabama-Tennessee Rivalry Announces Major Change

The Alabama Crimson Tide and Tennessee Volunteers have announced a major change for their annual football game in the Third Saturday in October. Starting this year, both teams will wear their home jerseys in Knoxville in 2026 and in Tuscaloosa in 2027.

This is a return to a tradition that was last seen 56 years ago, in a game played in Knoxville. Alabama athletic director Greg Byrne expressed excitement about bringing back a piece of the game's history. Tennessee Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics Danny White also welcomed the news, crediting both schools and the Southeastern Conference for their support.

The game, which is one of the most historic in college football, has been played every year since 1928, with the exception of 1943 when World War II canceled the season. Alabama currently holds a record of 61-39-8, making the 2026 edition the 109th meeting between the teams.

For Tennessee fans, this change means seeing the orange jerseys in person for the first time since 1969, as the game was previously played at Legion Field in Birmingham. Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer emphasized the special nature of the game, crediting its tradition and pageantry.