Game By Game Look At Vols’ 2014 Schedule
By Zach Ragan
Dec 26, 2013; San Diego, CA, USA; Utah State Aggies quarterback Darell Garretson (6) celebrates after a touchdown in the second half against the Northern Illinois Huskies during the 2013 Poinsettia Bowl at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports
Utah State @ Tennessee — August 30
The Tennessee Volunteers will open the season with a “gimme” against Utah State.
Nice thought, right?
Unfortunately that first line isn’t a true statement.
The Vols’ first game against Utah State is anything but a “gimme”.
Utah State went 9-5 in 2013, finishing the season with a 21-14 win over # 23 Northern Illinois in the Poinsettia Bowl.
The biggest reason for Utah State’s success in 2013 was their stifling defense. They only gave up 17.1 points a game, which was seventh best in the nation.
It took Tennessee a few weeks to find their offensive rhythm in 2013. With another quarterback battle on the horizon and a inexperienced offensive line, that could be the case again in 2014. If that turns out to be so, it could be bad news for the Vols in week one.
Ultimately I believe Butch Jones will have his team prepared and I don’t think they’ll overlook Utah State in any way. The Vols will win their season opener at Neyland.
Prediction: Vols win (1-0)