Tennessee vs Bama: The Victory Cigar Tradition

Few college football rivalries carry the weight and buzz of Alabama vs. Tennessee. Playing every year on the “Third Saturday in October,” this rivalry extended to the early 1900's. Originating in 1901, this intense showdown features passion, history, and one iconic ritual, the victory cigar! 

The Crimson Tide and Volunteers battle began on November 28, 1901, ending in a 6–6 tie. By 1928, coach Robert Neyland formalized the matchup to the traditional October date, igniting a rivalry that’s endured for well over a century with dominant runs, lopsided victories, and iconic finishes.

🎉 The Birth And History of The Cigar Game Tradition

In 1961, an Alabama trainer named Jim Goostree offered cigars to his players if they could finally beat Tennessee after years of losses. They did, and the victory cigar was born. If you can imagine the losing team not taking this lightly and so the rivalry and escalation of the tradition ensued. Ever since, the triumphant team and now their fans light up cigars on the field in a smoky, celebratory haze. 

All-Time Series & Trends

• As of October 19, 2024, the all-time series record stood at Alabama 60 wins, Tennessee 39 wins, and 8 ties
• Tennessee has a current 1-game win streak, having defeated Alabama in Knoxville on October 19, 2024

Notable Streaks

• Alabama’s dominance under Nick Saban was remarkable: 16–1 record versus Tennessee, including a 15-game win streak from 2007 to 2021
• Before that, under Bear Bryant, Alabama enjoyed an 11-game win streak (1971-1981). Bear Bryant tallied a 16-7-2 record against the Vols from 1958 to 1982.
• Tennessee had its own run: a 7-game win streak from 1995 to 2001. 
• Can Tennessee Head Coach, Josh Heupel, be the Vols coach that starts his own dominant streak? He is currently 2-2 vs Alabama

Historic Moments

Here are some of the most legendary matchups:

• October 15, 2022 – Tennessee ended Alabama’s 15‑game streak with a thrilling 52–49 win on a last-second field goal
• October 25, 2003 – A marathon five‑overtime game in Tuscaloosa ended with Tennessee’s 51‑43 win the most OT periods in the rivalry’s history 
• October 16, 1982 – Tennessee snapped an 11-game losing streak with a dramatic 35–28 victory, sparking legendary scenes of field-storming and goal‑post tearing
• October 24, 2009 – Alabama escaped with a 12–10 win, thanks to Terrence Cody blocking the game‑tying field goal-key for their national title run

Recent Game Results (2020-2024)

🔥 2024 Recap: A Smoke-Filled Celebration For The Orange

When Tennessee snapped an 15-year streak in 2022 and then clinched their next win in 2024, the field quickly filled with fans and players lighting cigars some even fumbles with oversized wrappers and hunter-grade torch lighters. As the announcers say "Smoke em if you got em." Cigar Aficionado aptly called it “The Cigar Game.” 

💨 Roll Tide or GBO: Celebrate With Cigars The Right Way

Whether you’re cheering for the Tide or the Vols, freshly ignited cigars come with tradition and etiquette.

Lighting With Respect

Use reliable torch lighters to avoid harsh starts. Ensure evenly toasted caps and avoid scorching the wrapper.

Mind Your Surroundings

Stand clear of teammates, fans, and sensitive spaces before lighting up. Clap if you need to, but don’t blow smoke into unwitting eyes.

Travel Smarter, Smoke Better

Victory cigars deserve dignity. Store them in travel humidor cases to protect freshness and structure perfect for tailgates or post-game locker-room smokes.

Don’t Snub the Lighter

Slinging a lighter that fails mid-light? Avoid embarrassment carry a quality cigar lighter you trust.

🛒 Gear for the Gridiron Celebrator

While cigars are the hero, small touches elevate the smoking experience. Here are some  cigar accessories that will make you seem like a professional.

• Robust Torch Lighter: Ideal for windy stadium conditions.
• Compact travel humidor cases: Shield cigars on the move for celebrations anywhere.
• Quality cigar cutterss: Precision cuts control ensures a clean smoke

🚨 Quick Tip: Toss a high-quality lighter and cigar case into your tailgate kit

Winning against your rival is sweet, but lighting that victory cigar in full tradition is legendary. As you gather for the next Third Saturday in October, don’t forget your lighter, your travel case, and your etiquette. Celebrate like the champions you are because every champ deserves to puff in style.