Just over a week ago, Knoxville-based columnist John Adams argued Tennessee should consider dropping Alabama from its annual schedule. Citing the competitive disadvantage the Vols face having to play one of the nation’s strongest programs on an annual basis, Adams sentiment was that it is time to end the annual Third Saturday in October rivalry.

The argument has largely been dismissed and has drawn its fair share of criticism from the majority of college football fans. It appears Tennessee head coach Butch Jones is among those eager to dismiss the notion that the Vols should avoid the Crimson Tide in the future.

During a Wednesday appearance on WJOX 94.5 radio program The Opening Drive, Jones said it was an ‘honor and a privilege’ to participate in the annual rivalry as head coach of the Volunteers.

Here is Jones’ full comment when asked to share his feelings on the Third Saturday in October and it’s importance to college football.

“Well with rivalries in college football, that adds to the pageantry of college football, that’s what makes college football very very special,” Jones said on the air. “Obviously, that game means a lot to a lot of individuals, including us — also known as the cigar game. We talked about when we came here four years ago of getting back to being competitive and finding a way to win some of these rivalry games.

“Obviously, have a tremendous amount of respect for Coach Saban and what Alabama’s been able to do. They’ve kinda set the bar and the standard, not only for the SEC but I think for all of college football. Obviously, that’s a great great rivalry for us and we take great pride in that game. We were very disappointed by the way we performed when we played them last year, the game before went down to the very end in Tuscaloosa. It’s always a great challenge, it’s a game that’s an honor and a privilege to play in and I think it’s great for the Southeastern Conference and it’s great for all of college football.”

Alabama is set to host Tennessee Oct. 21 in Tuscaloosa for the 2017 season. The Crimson Tide have currently won the last 10 matchups in the series.