The Alabama Victory Cigar Tradition After Every Win
Few celebrations in college sports are as recognizable as the Alabama victory cigar tradition. Each year, when the Crimson Tide face off against the Tennessee Volunteers, the smoke of victory rolls across Tuscaloosa. Fans, alumni, and players join in lighting cigars — a symbolic act that celebrates dominance, pride, and decades of Alabama football excellence.
The Alabama victory cigar tradition isn’t just a quick puff after a win — it’s a ritual that connects generations of fans and players, keeping history alive with every draw.
How the Alabama Victory Cigar Tradition Began
According to the Paul W. Bryant Museum, the Alabama victory cigar tradition started back in 1935, when then-player Paul “Bear” Bryant received a cigar following a win over Tennessee. Years later, as head coach, Bryant revived the tradition in 1958 by having his athletic trainer Jim Goostree hand out cigars to players after every victory over the Volunteers.
What started in the locker room quickly spread to the stands, as the Alabama victory cigar tradition became a mark of pride — something every Crimson Tide fan looked forward to.
The Cigars That Define the Tradition
There’s no single brand officially tied to the Alabama victory cigar tradition, but a few have become closely connected:
OZ Family Cigars released a special edition called “The Cigar Game”, a 6×56 box-pressed Toro from their Firsat line, created exclusively for the Alabama-Tennessee matchup.
R&R Cigars, a Tuscaloosa tobacconist, crafts custom cigars each year for fans who want to honor the Alabama victory cigar tradition in style.
Each brand captures the bold, Southern flavor that makes this tradition so legendary.
Do Fans Light Up in the Stadium?
Officially, Bryant–Denny Stadium has a no-smoking policy, but that hasn’t stopped fans from keeping the Alabama victory cigar tradition alive. After the final whistle, the air fills with celebratory smoke around the stadium and tailgate areas — a scene that has become as iconic as the game itself.
Even if it’s not permitted inside the stands, the spirit of the Alabama victory cigar tradition thrives just beyond the gates.
Why the Alabama Victory Cigar Tradition Endures
For Tide fans, this custom represents more than just football — it’s a symbol of unity, heritage, and pride. Every puff tells the story of hard-earned victories, unforgettable rivalries, and a program steeped in excellence.
The Alabama victory cigar tradition isn’t about tobacco; it’s about triumph. It’s about that moment when Alabama conquers Tennessee, and the smoke of success fills the Southern sky once more.
All the best,
Dr. B
