The Tennessee Volunteers are 2-3 and all three losses were heartbreakers against Oklahoma, Tennessee and Florida. Despite its record, this is a talented Tennessee team with a bright future. Here are five things we know about Tennessee through five games.
Losing Curt Maggitt Hurts
Maggitt was one of the best players on the defense and the freak hip injury that has sidelined him since the Oklahoma game was a tough one for the Vols. The defense, especially the pass rush, doesn't look the same without him. It's fair to wonder if the games against Florida and Arkansas turn out differently if Maggitt is healthy.
Tennessee Misses Its WRs
Jason Croom, Pig Howard, Marquez North and Johnathon Johnson have all been limited by injuries this season. As a result, QB Joshua Dobbs has checked down more often than he (and Vol fans) would like him to. The Vols do have some talented WRs, but missing four of their best isn't helping the passing game.
The Running Game Is Strong
RBs Jalen Hurd and Alvin Kamara have played well this season. They've combined for 140 carries for 739 yards and 10 TDs. In fact, they could probably get even more work and still be effective. Dobbs has contributed on the ground as well, racking up 250 yards and three scores. The Vols are a run-first team, which is why all of their losses have been close.
This Team Isn't Ready To Win The SEC East
I thought the Vols would win the SEC East this season, but it doesn't look that will be the end result. And that's okay. This is still a young team that just wasn't quite ready to take the next step. That doesn't mean the step won't happen, but I do understand that patience is tough for a fan base that wants nothing more than to win.
There's Still Young Talent
Playing off the previous point; this Tennessee team still has plenty of talent. Most of the key contributors are juniors or underclassmen, so the Vols should be loaded next season. Butch Jones has done a great job recruiting, so expect another strong class this year. The Vols won't win the SEC this season, but there is always next year. Plus, the team should still go to a bowl game. The young talent will produce results soon enough.
Back to the Tennessee Volunteers Newsfeed