Photo via Tennessee AthleticsTennessee head coach Josh Heupel couldn’t remember the last time he smoked a cigar. So, how was the postgame cigar after his first win over Alabama.
“I smoked it slow but it was dang good,” Heupel said.
There wasn’t anything bad in the chaotic postgame scene as No. 6 Tennessee defeated No. 3 Alabama, 52-49, for the first time since 2006.
Hendon Hooker continued his phenomenal super senior campaign, completing 21-of-30 passes for 385 yards, five touchdowns and his first interception of the season.
“The guy’s playing at an unbelievable level,” Heupel said of Hooker. “Smart, tough, competitive, decisive, accurate with the football. Short, medium, deep. Controlled the game for us. Used his feet when he had to. He’s the key to the ignition that makes us go.”
The win is a monumental one for the Tennessee football program. The Vols are 6-0 with four wins over top 25 teams and earned a rivalry win that made fans, former players and everyone in the Volunteer State proud of its football program.
“Tonight was obviously for our players, but it’s for our former players,” Heupel said. “It’s for our donors. It’s for our fans. I know how much this has meant to the people of Tennessee and Vol nation. So excited that we were able to come out with a win for everyone involved. It was a great night.”
The second year Tennessee coach also discussed the play of his offensive line, what the win means for the program and more.
