Sep 5, 2015; Nashville, TN, USA; Tennessee Volunteers running back Alvin Kamara (6) celebrates scoring a touchdown against the Bowling Green Falcons with teammate Volunteers running back Jalen Hurd (1) during the second half at Nissan Stadium. Tennessee won 59-30. Mandatory Credit: Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports
1A. Tennessee: Establish a Great Running Game
It’s an old cliche that has rung true in this series since the two teams began playing on an annual basis in 1990. The team that wins the rushing battle almost always wins the game, and Tennessee has never won the game without winning the rushing battle.
So they need to do what wins the game. Run the ball!
The Vols have an inexperienced offensive line going up against an elite Florida defensive line. But they have got to be able to hold their own. And that puts the pressure in this game on the two great running backs, Jalen Hurd and Alvin Kamara.
Together they should see at least 40 carries in this game. Butch Jones should pull out the game plan from 1998, when Tennessee had a good quarterback who struggled in playing consistent and was going up against a dominant front seven but stuck to the running game the whole time to wear the Gators down.
Hurd is a monster and can pick up yards as long as the offensive line does a decent job of protecting him. If he keeps getting the ball, the defense should be worn down trying to tackle him in the fourth quarter. And the physical force of him could create a great contrast that will allow Kamara to break off long runs for touchdowns.
The goal for this game needs to be 150 to 200 rushing yards, and the Vols have to use it to dominate in time of possession.
Next: Florida Key #1: Get Pressure on the Quarterback