Nov 15, 2014; Knoxville, TN, USA; Tennessee Volunteers defensive back Brian Randolph (37) and linebacker Jalen Reeves-Maybin (34) celebrate a defensive touchdown against the Kentucky Wildcats during the first half at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports
The Tennessee Volunteers finished the 2014 season as well as any non-playoff team could — with a convincing win over a power five opponent in a post-New Year’s Day bowl.
Tennessee’s spectacular performance in the Gator Bowl already has folks talking about what could be in store for the Vols next season.
A lot of analysts think the Volunteers could have a shot at the SEC East next season.
I’m inclined to agree with them.
The SEC East, once again, will be wide open in 2015 and the Vols are returning the bulk of a roster that delivered the program’s first winning season since 2009.
And not only is Tennessee returning a ton of talented players, but they have another top recruiting class on the way. A class that includes some of the best defensive line recruits that any school has seen in recent memory.
But the Vols won’t be SEC East front runners by default. This is still a team that suffered six losses this past season.
Tennessee still has a ton of areas in which they need to improve. The influx of talent will help, but there are quite a few players already on the roster that need to step up next season.
Some of these guys will see expanded roles due to attrition. Some of these guys can play themselves into bigger roles.
Whatever the case may be, here are five players that we would like to see more of next season.