Alabama coach Nick Saban pointed to his defense’s inability to get off the field in the first quarter.

The Tide, which trailed Tennessee after the first quarter 13-0, allowed the Vols to convert 4 of 7 third-down conversions en route to 187 total yards.

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“Really what we have to do is get off the field on third down on defense,” Saban said. “We’ve had opportunities to get off the field on three or four third downs on the same drive. When you play a team like this you have to get off the field.”

On the other hand, the Alabama offense hasn’t been able to sustain any drives, failing to convert on four third-down conversions.

“Offensively, we just have to get going,” he said. “We’re just not having enough positive plays. I think we’re going to get a plan together and get moving here.”

As soon as Saban’s comments aired, Kendrick Law rolled up for 34 yards to the Tennessee 39 for a first down, but the Tide drive stalled after a failed third-and-7 attempt.

Mark Heim is a reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim. He can be heard on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5 FM in Mobile or on the free Sound of Mobile App from 6 to 9 a.m. daily.