TUSCALOOSA, Ala. -- The roar in Bryant-Denny Stadium shook the goal posts Saturday that Daniel Lincoln's 44-yard field goal attempt never reached.

For a team used to emphatic victories, exhausted relief never felt so good.

"Just keep the dream alive," Alabama quarterback Greg McElroy said.

The left paw of big Crimson Tide nose tackle Terrence Cody reached Lincoln's kick as time expired, preserving a 12-10 victory over Tennessee. Cody's second block of the game triggered a wild celebration on the field and in the stands.

On the other side, Tennessee players sat motionless, unwilling to let go after outplaying the nation's No. 1 team for much of Saturday, only to come up short in the final seconds.

"It's a difficult loss to deal with," Vols coach Lane...