Henry To'o To'o explains the mindset Tennessee players have facing rival Alabama

Alabama linebacker Henry To’To’o is the rare case of a player who has played on both sides on one of college football’s longest-standing rivalries. The former Tennessee linebacker is in his second season as a member of the Crimson Tide after two seasons spent in Knoxville to kick off his collegiate career.

So he experienced the Alabama side of the rivalry a year ago during the Tide’s 52-24 whipping of the Vols. But how does he remember approaching the rivalry game back when he was in the orange and white? Especially since Tennessee hasn’t won the game in a decade.

However, according to To’oTo’o, the tradition is still alive and well.

“Yeah, I mean, you know, the tradition. We always knew that this was a big game no matter what year it was. But that tradition never dies. Alabama and Tennessee will always live forever. I mean, that’ll be a game everybody looks forward to on the third third week of October.”

He knows that the Volunteers won’t let history get in their way. Those players will be just as amped up and excited as the guys on the Alabama sideline. At least this time around, Tennessee actually has a legitimate chance to win the football game.

Tennessee’s Hendon Hooker praises To’oTo’o, Alabama linebackers

Respectful words came from Alabama’s side via Henry To’oTo’o, and they also came from Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker. When asked about the Tide defense ahead of Saturday’s matchup, Hooker was quick to point to a pair of Crimson Tide linebackers that he has great respect for and knows will be a challenge to play against.

“Their back end is is very, very smart, very fast. And they play physical as a linebacker position, you know. They got Henry To’oTo’o and he makes incredible plays. He’s a very cerebral player. And then, you know, just as a team, their culture is already set in stone and they come to play every game.”

He also held high regards for edge rusher Will Anderson, perhaps the most dynamic defensive player in the nation. “You know, he’s a great player. Has a high motor, makes good plays,” said Hooker.

Mutual respect going both ways heading into the heated rivalry.