It is that time of year again — the Alabama vs. Tennessee football game!
The third Saturday in October will see #12 Alabama hosting the #21 Tennessee in a much-anticipated football game, a date marked by years of riveting rivalry and tradition. Kick-off is slated for October 21, 2023.
For the 2023 season game, Vitola Fine Cigars has you covered. Stop by one of our many locations or order your gameday celebratory cigars online!
If you love football or are just a casual watcher, you’re likely aware of the Alabama vs. Tennessee tradition: The winning team celebrates by smoking cigars after the game. It’s a fun tradition, but why is it done? Here is a look into the history behind the tradition.
When Did The Cigar Smoking Tradition Start Between Alabama And Tennessee?
Back in the day, Alabama wasn’t always winning games. In fact, ahead of the 1961 Alabama vs. Tennessee matchup, it had been years since they beat the Tennessee volunteers. So, when Alabama beat Tennessee 34-3, athletic trainer Jim Goostree passed around victory cigars to all the players. From then on, it was an iconic tradition.
Who Started The Cigar War?
While it is an Alabama tradition from the start, it has become so attached to the Alabama vs. Tennessee game that both teams like to participate. Despite the undeniable sting of Tennessee ending our venerable 15-year winning streak last season, an invigorating mixture of anticipation and determination fills the air as we gear up to face them again this season. It’s not just about retribution but also about showcasing resilience, progress, and the indomitable spirit that defines our team.
Do Coaches Light Up A Cigar After The Game?
It may come as a surprise, but Nick Saban does not smoke cigars or participate in the tradition. However, that doesn’t mean he holds his players back! Initially, Saban tried to keep the cigars out of the locker rooms because it was an NCAA violation. Since then, he has warmed up to it and even takes photos with his victory-cigar-smoking players after the game.
NCAA Tobacco Rules
As mentioned above, it is prohibited. The NCAA bylaws say this: “The use of tobacco products is prohibited by all game personnel (e.g., coaches, trainers, managers, and game officials) in all sports during practice and competition. Uniform penalties (as determined by the applicable rules-making committees and sports committees with rules-making responsibilities) shall be established for such use.”
What does Vitola say to that? Well, rules are meant to be broken! We obviously aren’t alone in that thought. So, grab some cigars from Vitola, watch the game, and get ready to enjoy the sweet victory!