Paul Finebaum has been around long enough to remember when Florida and Tennessee had a strong rivalry in the SEC. The series will be reignited this week when the Gators travel to Rocky Top, and ESPN’s “College GameDay” will be on hand.

Finebaum shared his expectations during his recap podcast with Matt Barrie.

“This is going to be a big event and a big weekend in Knoxville. So much is on the line,” said Finebaum. “It doesn’t feel (that way) to me … as it’s not going to be that big of a statement to beat Florida. Which I think Tennessee will. Tennessee is a little bit banged up, but this Florida team looks so vulnerable.”

Florida has won 5 straight in the series, and Tennessee’s last win came in 2016 in a game coached by Butch Jones and Jim McElwain.

It’s not just the Florida game, Finebaum circled a game down the schedule for the Vols that may further define the season.

“As big as this weekend is going to be … the Alabama game is suddenly going to take on epic meaning because there’s a sense that maybe this Alabama team is a little bit vulnerable,” Finebaum said.

The game is also the 3:30 p.m. ET game on CBS.