Arkansas was Alabama’s “toughest challenge.” Texas A&M was supposed to be an elite matchup. In the aftermath of the chaotic 24-20 victory, as the Tide approach a new turn of the Southeastern Conference gauntlet, attention quickly turned to next week: Tennessee is looking like a game-of-the-year contender.

Crimson Tide players, though, have a 24-hour rule, win or lose. It allows them to reflect on the game, learn from it and move on. Still, reporters wanted to know their thoughts on next week’s showdown.

“We got a stretch coming up, we play other good teams, very good,” Will Anderson said. “… We’re gonna have to keep that thing rolling.”

Cornerback Terrion Arnold said he hadn’t seen the No. 8 Volunteers yet. The Vols are led by quarterback Hendon Hooker and defensive back Trevon Flowers under Josh Heupel’s resurgence.

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What about backup quarterback Jalen Milroe? As one reporter asked, do you feel ready for next week?

“The biggest thing I like to say, is ‘Family, forget about me. I love you.’ At the end of the day, I’m not playing for myself. I’m playing for the team,” Milroe said. I’m playing for the guys around me and that’s the most important thing to me. I think that’s very important for any game moving forward is the family aspect of playing football.

“Staying poised, learning from it. Everything is a learning experience. No matter good or bad you can always learn from anything that you put your mind to. This is a growth moment for myself.”

With quarterback Bryce Young’s status in question, Alabama is favored by 9.5 points. Still, it’s been favored by three touchdowns against Texas and Texas A&M and won by five combined points. Kickoff is set for 2:30 p.m. CDT from Neyland Stadium.

“We’re going to play a really good team next week on the road, certainly have to play a lot better to have any chance of being successful,” Nick Saban said.

Nick Alvarez is a reporter for Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @nick_a_alvarez or email him at [email protected].