So much for Tradition - this game is the 4th Saturday in October and has been a few times in the past since the division of the SEC in the early Nineties.  None the less, it is Alabama and Tennessee week.  More about that, but first, Bama slaughtered the Piggies from Arky by the tune of 52 - 0. Oddly enough the same score as last year.  2013 Bama D is looking a lot like the Defenses of the past.  Many say with Vinnie Sunseri out for the season (Knee) Bama still has some questions in the secondary.  Now that Ha Ha Clinton Dix is back, that shores up the secondary, but it will be interesting to see how opposing teams try to attack.

Tennessee's is riding high following their Victory over South Carolina.  They are looking like a team who is getting better.  The Vols come into Bryant Denny with a 4-3 record.  Bama of course still sits at number 1 in all polls and the Vegas Odds makers have Bama favored by 28. 

This rivalry takes me back to some wonderful and not so wonderful memories.   Coach Bryant truly loved this game and there was nothing like Tennessee week.  Perkins and others with ties to the late Great Bryant, carried on many of the great traditions of the week, such as piping Rocky Top into the practices...the scout team wearing Orange.. and the list goes on.  But things change, and time changes most all things - as has this rivalry.   This Bama team, doesn't seem to have a "Mad On" for UT, like that generation gone by, and rightfully so, Bama has won the last 6 as this has become a very streaky series.  

In 09 Bama was scared to death as Mt. Cody snatched victory from the jaws of defeat with a big paw on a field goal attempt to win.  While I think the Vols will certainly show, I don't think that will be the case in this one.   I don't think Bama covers, but wins going away.

 Bama 38 - Tenn 13

Smoke em if you got em' RTR  

Bama handled the Cats in proper business like fashion last week by a score of 48 - 7.  This in spite of the fact Bama did a terrible job of RED ZONE production in the first half, with fumbles insided the 20.   The 2nd Qtr changed and the Tide pour it on with the highest offensive output in over 40 years.  The folks at Lexington are super, and this was the trip I chose to make this year.  Always love Lexington, and got to visit Keeneland. 

This week Bama retains it # 1 ranking, with the Razorbacks coming to town.  Ark is fresh off a shellacking by SC last week when they gave up over 50.  Bama is a 28 point favorite and I think they will cover.  

Bama 45  RazorBacks  10

Bama handled Homecoming opponent GA State, with no troubles.  Allowing some younger players  to get much needed reps and playing time.  Homecoming was great and 7 Tide Rides made the trip, with the Elephant Car and the Helmet leading the list of fan favorites.

This week, Bama is in the Bluegrass state taking on the Kentucky Wildcats.  As is the case every week with SEC opponents, anything can happen.  Kentucky played well last week against South Carolina and I suspect they will give have their dobbers up for Bama.  The odds makers have Bama as a 27 point favorite, and I expect them to cover.

When all is said and done in this 6pm Kickoff, I see BAMA 38 - KY 6.

ROLL TIDE 

Well bust my britches and call me corn pone - Bama's Defense showed up in a BIG way vs Ole Miss and the team that plays in the EGG bowl, laid and egg... as Bama held the mighty Black Bears to Zero points.  Considering the Ole Miss QB was taunting the Tide a bit the week prior to the game with comments such as, "we can score on them".. "our receivers will burn them deep" "our receivers are better than TAMU" blah blah.. and I, was suckered in and thought that Ole Miss would indeed put some points on the board. My pick of 42 - 31 is easily the worst pick I have made since having the Tide Rides Board.  I'm happy I was wrong and even more happy that the Tide perhaps flexed its defensive muscles.  The offense, found a portion of the running game, ripping off some big running plays for the first time this year.  So, perhaps this team will live up to the high expectations and continue the quest for #16.  

This week, Bama should have an easy time at Homecoming. Taking on the winless Ga St. Panthers.  The Panthers come into Bryant Denny as a 55 point underdog and 4 losses to Jacksonville State, Samford and shold continue that winless streak in the state of Alabama.  I look for Bama to get some playing time for the youngsters and more reps for the O-Line.

Speaking of the Homecoming - Yours truly will be in the parade which (thanks to an early KO and TV contract) begins at 7am with a line up time of 5:30 am.  Whew.  And for those who are so inclined, Tide Rides has a new addition.... Look for Pictures after Saturday. 

My prediction... Bama won't cover, but will win handily.  Bama 55 - GSU 6

ROLL TIDE