How does Alabama football compare to Tennessee? We asked someone who played for both

Not many people can say they’ve been on both sides of the Third Saturday in October rivalry.

Tight end Miles Kitselman is on the short list. And he’s experienced both the highs and lows of it.

He was part of the 2022 Alabama team that lost to Tennessee in Knoxville. Then, he was part of the 2023 Alabama team that beat Tennessee in Tuscaloosa. After that, Kitselman transferred to Tennessee. Then, he became the starting tight end for the Vols on a team that beat Alabama in Knoxville again.

“They’re both great programs,” Kitselman said. “I love where I’m at right now. I learned a lot from when I was there as a man and as a player, but we’ve moved on and I love Tennessee.”

Kitselman started his college career at Hutchinson Community College in Kansas. Then Alabama signed him before the 2022 season. He played in 19 games over his time with Alabama, primarily working as a reserve.

Then, Kitselman left, transferring out before Nick Saban announced his decision to retire.

“I want to thank coach (Nick) Saban and coach (Joe) Cox for giving me the opportunity of a lifetime, Kitselman wrote on social media. “I will forever be grateful for my time at the University of Alabama. After talking with family and close friends, I have decided to enter into the transfer portal with 1 year of eligibility remaining.”

Kitselman went on to start in 13 games, finishing with 301 receiving yards and five total touchdowns (receiving and rushing).

“Elite competitor,” Tennessee coach Josh Heupel said of Kitselman. “You know exactlywhat you’re going to get, which is everything that he has every single day. He’s got great football IQ and understanding as of what we’re doing offensively, the fundamentals and the technique, but also understanding the scheme we’re going against on the other side of the football. He’s really developed as a leader during the course of this offseason.”