Tennessee intercepts Jalen Milroe in the end zone to keep the game scoreless

Tennessee's defense had a pivotal moment early on Saturday against Alabama.

After Alabama's first two drives yielded no points, it looked like the Crimson Tide would finally get on the scoreboard late in the first quarter.

On 2nd-and-goal from the 3-yard line, Milroe threw a jump ball to Ryan Williams in the corner of the end zone, but missed. The poor attempt was saved by Jermod McCoy and returned near midfield.

Here is a repeat:

“TERRIBLE INTERCEPTION BY MILROE!” – Sean McDonough with SEC on Alabama-Tennessee ABC call 🏈🎙️ pic.twitter.com/FdtYhrZyBs

– Awful Announcement (@awfulanncreasing) October 19, 2024

For Milroe, it's a continuation of a troubling trend that became apparent during SEC play. This is his fifth interception so far in fewer than four complete games against SEC opponents in 2024.

McCoy's big play kept the game scoreless and allowed Tennessee to regain some momentum after a rough start for Nico Iamaleava. Tennessee eventually settled for a field goal on the ensuing drive, but it was missed.

Both teams have already lost an SEC game this season, meaning this contest has significant implications for the College Football Playoff and the SEC title game.