Paul Finebaum Reveals SEC Contender's Season Hinges On Crucial Game

This college football season will feature exciting matchups and gain more attention due to the expansion of the College Football Playoff. As a result, many more games now hold significance for a larger number of teams.

One game that could have major implications is a college football matchup that fans are familiar with: the Tennessee Volunteers vs. the Alabama Crimson Tide. According to ESPN's Paul Finebaum , this game will determine the entire season for the Volunteers. If Tennessee can secure a win, it will be headed to the playoffs for the first time.

"I think one game is going to determine their entire season," Finebaum said. "That's the Alabama game. If they can beat Alabama in Knoxville, they are going to be a playoff team."

The ESPN Football Power Index (FPI) measures team strength to predict a team's future performance for the rest of the season. According to FPI, the Volunteers are expected to have a very good season, with a predicted record of 9-3 and a projected No. 5 finish in the SEC, potentially making them a fringe playoff team.

The Volunteers are ranked No. 5 in the conference for the chance to win the conference, make the playoff, compete in the national championship game and win the national championship.

Rocky Top could be in for a major season ahead if Tennessee can beat Alabama.

Related: Paul Finebaum Explains Why One SEC Team Can't Compete At The Top