Nico Iamaleava, Dont'e Thornton share what rivalry wins over Alabama, Florida mean to them

In two straight weeks, Tennessee has been able to win close games against bitter rivals, defeating Florida in overtime followed by a win 24-17 win over Alabama last weekend. Putting themselves at a 2-1 record over both teams respectively in their last three meetings following a combined 1-29 record between both programs in the last 15 years.

Tennessee’s current players are familiar with the significance of their most recent victories. Which quarterback Nico Iamaleava and wide receiver Dont’e Thornton spoke about following their win over the Crimson Tide.

“I know it’s a big game for our fans, big game for our community, and I’m super glad went out there and got it done for sure,” Iamaleava said.

Tennessee fans made their joy for Saturday’s win apparent after taking the field at Neyland Stadium, lighting victory cigars, and bringing down the goalposts. But Tennessee football’s alumni (Volunteers For Life) have also had a big impact surrounding the team’s rivalry games.

“I’d say the thing that resonates with me the most is when all the VFLs come back,” Thornton said. “At half time the other day I was talking to Donté Stallworth about the game and just seeing how dedicated those guys who came from the past, who are coming back now, who are coming back to these same exact games. It makes me for sure want to play harder because I know they’re looking at us and we have to show them we’re going to make them proud. So it definitely sits with me good.”

“All the VFL legends that came back definitely just made us want to go get it done more even for them,” Iamaleava added. “We’ve been struggling versus these two teams and like I said, I’m super glad we got this one.”

Tennessee’s recent wins are critical in continuing to build up the program’s culture in the short term. But long term, bridging the gap between players from the past and present will be even more impactful as the Volunteers chase championship heights.