Greg McElroy shared his analysis leading up to the SEC showdown between Tennessee and host Alabama.

Alabama will aim for some revenge after last season was its first loss against Tennessee since 2006. Meanwhile, Tennessee strives for its first victory in Tuscaloosa since 2003.

The ESPN analyst thinks a major question will be Tennessee’s ability to run the ball against Alabama’s defense.

“Alabama is going to be tough to run the ball against. They’ve done a great job this year,” McElroy said. “Alabama is very stout against the run there in the middle of the defense.”

McElroy also notes how Tennessee’s offense has regressed on making big plays since last season.

“That’s something to take into account,” McElroy said. “…They’re going to have to create some explosiveness at some point. If they don’t then it will be very difficult.”

McElroy says Tennessee quarterback Joe Milton will need to assert himself down the field.

“Right now, he’s struggling on the downfield throws. He’s been really inaccurate and very inconsistent…The passing attack has been pretty limited so far for Joe Milton,” McElroy said. “…They need to get some chunk yardage against what I think is the best defense they’ve faced up to this point.”

Meanwhile, McElroy wonders if Alabama can provide enough protection for quarterback Jalen Milroe. Alabama has given up at least 4 sacks in 6 straight games. Tennessee is 5th nationally in sacks.

“It’s been a long, long time since we’ve seen a quarterback under this much pressure,” McElroy said. “Tennessee…They can breathe a lot of fire with their pass rush…Milroe’s got to get the ball out quicker.”

McElroy will also be curious to see how Tennessee responds to the road atmosphere, since they’ve had some recent struggles away from their friendly confines.

“It’s been a huge issue for them up to this point,” McElroy said.

McElroy shares why he’s leaning Alabama 28-21 in this contest.

“Both teams are really good on defense. Both teams will not give up cheap yardage,” McElroy said. “It’s going to be up to Joe Milton hitting some big plays down field to potentially pull the upset. But I just don’t trust him enough to do that.”