Rapid Reaction: Vols Fall To Alabama

Nathan Peterman got the start for the Vols on Saturday night against Alabama, but it was Josh Dobbs who finished the game for Tennessee and appeared to take a stronghold on the starting quarterback job for the foreseeable future.

Despite the fact that Dobbs played well, the Vols were unable to stop Alabama’s suddenly resurgent offense, falling to the Crimson Tide 34-20.

Dobbs threw for 192 yards (19-32), two touchdowns and one interception in place of an injured Justin Worley.

The offense certainly seemed to flow better with Dobbs under center. The running ability of the sophomore signal caller added another element to the Vols’ offense.

But the Vols are still a young team and Alabama is one of the top teams in the nation.

Tennessee was resilient, considering the circumstances (an early 27-0 hole). It would’ve been easy for the team to just give up and start looking toward South Carolina next week. But they fought back and while they didn’t exactly have Alabama worried about a miraculous comeback, they did at least get their attention.

Notes & thoughts: 

• Tennessee’s offense flowed way more efficiently with Dobbs under center. When the pocket collapsed, he was able to pick up yards with his legs (he had 75 rushing yards).
• The offensive line played its best game of the season, giving up only two sacks (one of which was late in the game and was a coverage sack).
• Brett Kendrick looked solid at left tackle. I’d imagine he’s the left tackle for the rest of the season. Kyler Kerbyson moved inside to guard in place of Marcus Jackson, while Jacob Gilliam played at right tackle.
• Speaking of Gilliam, I’m not sure how long he can play, but when he’s in there he’s a good option for the Vols.
• This is another game where the tight ends weren’t as involved as you’d like to see (though Wolf did have one tough drop). Tight ends only had two catches on Saturday night.
• Josh Dobbs threw several really nice balls, but he also let the ball sail a couple of times (such as his interception).
• Tennessee’s defense wasn’t able to get pressure on Blake Sims, that was a big part of why they gave up 27 points in the first half.
• The Vols looked like they had an identity with Dobbs under center. Healthy or not, I think he’s the guy the rest of the season for Tennessee.