Kool-Aid McKinstry Far Past Controversial Pass Interference from Tennessee Upset in 2022

In last year's loss, McKinstry intercepted a pass with just over four minutes to go that was called back after a late flag. He's not concerned about that anymore.

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — Alabama lost to Tennessee last season for the first time since 2006. The Volunteers upset the Crimson Tide 52-49 at Neyland Stadium.

Alabama trailed 28-10 before fighting all the way back to a 49-42 lead. With just over four minutes to go, on fourth-and-5, Kool-Aid McKinstry intercepted a pass by Hendon Hooker, returning it all the way inside the 20-yard line.

It would have nearly put the game on ice. Instead, a late flag came out that gave Tennessee an automatic first down. Of course, the Volunteers then went on to win on a game-winning field goal by Chase McGrath.

McKinstry is far past last year's controversial call, even if Crimson Tide fans aren't.

"I haven’t looked at that play since the Monday after the game after we watched film with Coach," McKinstry said Tuesday. "That’s last year. I’m kind of focused on this year, focused on doing what we need to do to execute and play fast and physical as a defense this week. I haven’t really went back and looked at that."

Tennessee's offense was on fire last year, on the arm of Hooker, the now Detroit Lions quarterback. The Volunteers' passing offense hasn't been the same in 2023-24 with Joe Milton III.

"I feel like [Milton] is a good player," McKinstry said. "He has a very strong arm. He can make all the throws. He plays like he’s very smart and he understands what the offensive coordinator is trying to get accomplished with their offense."

Hooker isn't the only piece missing from last year's upset. Remember Jalin Hyatt? Of course you do. He had 207 yards and five touchdowns in last year's game.

He's with the New York Giants now.

"[Tennessee's wide receivers] are good players," McKinstry said. "They also understand the scheme that their coach is trying to get accomplished. I feel like they do their jobs. They don’t try to do too much outside of what they need to be doing. I feel like they play very hard, and they block on the outside. I feel like they run good routes, and I feel like those guys are good players, too."

Saturday's result is unknown. But one thing is likely — the Volunteers probably won't be throwing for 385 yards on an improved Alabama secondary, led by McKinstry.

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