Tennessee football is hoping to take the next step this season after making its debut in the College Football Playoff last year. The Vols were one-and-done but have the potential to be CFP contenders for at least the next few seasons.
Even if Tennessee doesn't make the College Football Playoff and get a couple of wins closer to a national championship, that doesn't mean the Tennessee football program isn't improving.
The Vols had a clear lack of leadership last season, which could have been a big reason for some of their struggles on the road and in the CFP against Ohio State.