Tennessee defeats Alabama in first SEC televised game, 27-13

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 14, 2026, 12:45 PM

Last updated Oct 14, 2026

Tennessee defeats Alabama in first SEC televised game, 27-13
Summary

On October 20, 1951, Tennessee football faced Alabama at Legion Field in Birmingham, marking the first televised event in SEC history. The Vols overcame an early 7-0 deficit after Alabama's Bobby Marlow scored first, managing a 7-7 tie by halftime. In the third quarter, Tennessee pulled ahead with a touchdown run by Dick Ernsberger, ultimately sealing the game with a 27-13 victory following scoring plays by Hank Lauricella and Herky Payne. This game highlighted Tennessee's strong season, finishing with a 10-1 record and a national championship under head coach Robert Neyland.

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By the Numbers
  • •Tennessee wins 27-13 against Alabama on October 20, 1951
  • •First televised event in SEC history
  • •Tennessee leads at halftime, 7-7
  • •Hank Lauricella throws for 113 yards and rushes for 108
  • •Tennessee finishes 1951 season with 10-1 record
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  • 12:45 PMYahoo Sports — 1951 Tennessee-Alabama football: First televised event in SEC history
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1951 Tennessee versus Alabama football game: First televised event in SEC history

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