Tennessee hosts Alabama in historic college football rivalry today
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 17, 2026, 9:16 AM
Last updated Oct 17, 2026
Tennessee faces Alabama today at 3:30 p.m. ET in their 109th meeting. The teams are both 5-1, creating a competitive backdrop for this storied rivalry. Since 1961, the winner has celebrated by smoking cigars, a tradition that continues despite NCAA restrictions. The custom began after Alabama's 1961 victory, and fans prepare for significant cigar sales ahead of the game. Players from both teams are expected to light up cigars postgame if they win.
- •Tennessee and Alabama are both currently 5-1 this season.
- •The match takes place at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville.
- •Cigar smoking celebrates the winner and is a longstanding tradition.
- •Cigar sales spike around the annual game week.
- •Coaches and fans alike participate in the celebration after the match.
- 9:16 AMYahoo Sports — Here's why winner of Tennessee football vs Alabama smokes cigars after the game
"The winner of the Tennessee vs. Alabama rivalry, from players to fans, has celebrated by smoking cigars since the 1960s. Here's why.
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