Three Vol Defenders Accept Medal Of Honor Bowl Invitations

Nov 9, 2013; Knoxville, TN, USA; Tennessee Volunteers defensive lineman Jacques Smith (55) intercepts a pass intended for Auburn Tigers running back Tre Mason (21) and rushes for a touchdown during the first half at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports

Two Vol defensive lineman and one Vol linebacker have accepted invitations to play in the inaugural Medal of Honor Bowl in Charleston, SC.

Defensive lineman Maurice Couch played only two games for the Vols this season, as he was ruled permanently ineligible after Yahoo Sports reported he took impermissible benefits. Couch later admitted to the allegations when speaking with Dave Hooker and Andrew Darago of Tennessee Sports Radio.

Couch had 3.5 sacks during his three seasons at Tennessee.

Jacques Smith, the other defensive lineman accepting an invitation to the Medal of Honor Bowl, finished his career with five sacks in four seasons. Smith had a strong finish to his senior season, with 10 tackles over his last two games. He also had an interception returned for a touchdown in the Vols’ loss to Auburn.

Georgia native Dontavis Sapp started all 12 games during his senior season. The Vol linebacker finished his senior season with 66 tackles, which was good enough for third best on the team. He also had three fumble recoveries during the 2013 season.

Tennessee offensive lineman Alex Bullard also accepted an invitation to the event earlier this week.

The Medal of Honor Bowl will take place on January 11 at 2:00 PM ET. The game will take place on the campus of The Citadel.