Brad Penner-Imagn Images

'It felt like a Michael Jackson concert' - Alvin Kamara describes one of the most memorable Tennessee Vols events of the last decade

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Zach Ragan | Last updated May 8, 2025 2:58 PM ET

New Orleans Saints running back Alvin Kamara only spent two seasons with the Tennessee Vols, but he was part of several memorable moments with the program.

Specifically, Kamara was part of one of the most unique moments in Tennessee football history in 2016 when he played against the Virginia Tech Hokies in the Battle at Bristol -- the first ever football game at the NASCAR track.

Kamara was asked about playing in the Battle at Bristol during a recent appearance on Rubbin is Racin.

"I played at Bristol, it was cool," said Kamara. "It felt like a Michael Jackson concert. It was so many people, you saw that first little wave and then you looked up and you're just like, 'what the f---.'"

The Battle at Bristol set the NCAA record for the largest attendance for a football game (156,990 fans).

Tennessee beat Virginia Tech 45-24 in that matchup despite falling behind 14-0 in the first quarter.

23 days until football is finally here for the Volunteers. Josh Dobbs hit Alvin Kamara for a 23 yard touchdown in the Battle at Bristol. This is an iconic Vols play with Kamara smiling with his grill in to celebrate. pic.twitter.com/O8630RClXF
— Orange&WhiteTakeover (@OWTakeover) August 8, 2019

Kamara recorded nine rushing yards on just three carries while also catching three passes for 25 yards and a touchdown in the win against the Hokies at Bristol.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: