Alabama and Tennessee are set to square off in a historical rivalry game that has not been too competitive for almost two decades. That is expected to change, as both teams are ranked in the top 10 and Alabama isn’t at full strength.

A 15-year streak for the Crimson Tide is on the line and the Volunteers are looking to end it.

There are many storylines to follow and impressive players to keep an eye on in this contest. So, to make it easier, we spoke with Dan Harralson of Vols Wire, who provided us with some key answers to important questions we had.

If Alabama is able to have production in the passing game, attacking the Vols’ secondary will be key.

Nick Saban discussed facing an offensive scheme like Tennessee in Week 1 against Utah State. Utah State’s offensive coordinator coached under Heupel at UCF. Based on how Alabama played against Utah State’s scheme, Tennessee has a chance to have success against Brian Branch with slot comebacks and curls, along with rubs on the boundary side. Eli Ricks can face issues with outside splits and digs, Henry To’o To’o will have to play with discipline moving around, Terrion Arnold will need to step up press-coverage on vertical plays, Dallas Turner will need to play with stamina against uptempo. Jordan Battle and Will Anderson Jr. seem like they are the key pieces for Alabama’s defense, especially against Heupel’s offense.

Strengths on offense is Josh Heupel and his system. Hendon Hooker has been able to adapt and develop within Heupel’s system and has protected the ball. Even with Cedric Tillman in question for the game, Jalin Hyatt, Bru McCoy and others have been able to step up and plug-and-play. This game should be a good test for Darnell Wright and also Tennessee’s left tackle position.

Aaron Beasley, Jeremy Banks, Byron Young, Tyler Baron and Omari Thomas have played well this season under Rodney Garner and the Vols’ front seven. Jaylen McCollough was arrested Sunday and is a big loss for the secondary if he does not play.

Saul Young/News Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK

The chalk answer is Hendon Hooker, but it is Josh Heupel’s offense.

Gary Cosby Jr.-USA TODAY Sports

Alabama seems to be limping into this game, while Tennessee had an early open date and are playing well. With the unfortunate news regarding Bryce Young and his injury, whether he plays not a full strength or is out, it seems like this game is on a silver platter for Tennessee to end the streak.

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