Tennessee football vs. WVU: 5 Mountaineers to watch for against Vols

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AMES, IA – November 26: Running back David Montgomery #32 of the Iowa State Cyclones rushes for yards as linebacker David Long #11 of the West Virginia Mountaineers pursues in the second half of play at Jack Trice Stadium on November 26, 2016, in Ames, Iowa. The West Virginia Mountaineers won 49-19 over the Iowa State Cyclones. (Photo by David Purdy/Getty Images) /

Don’t be surprised if WILL linebacker David Long has himself a game against the Volunteers. Long somehow is flying under the radar as a linebacker. Maybe it is because West Virginia’s defense as a whole was terrible? But, Tennessee was 4-8 and, Trey Smith is getting recognition.

However, Long is a solid player, and somehow he was left off a lot of preseason All-Big 12 ballots. Moreover, Long was also left off the Butkus Award Watch List.

Related Story. 5 Vols to watch for against Mountaineers. light

Last season he registered 55 solo tackles and 75 total. His best game came against the Oklahoma State Cowboys where he racked up 18 total tackles and even recovered a fumble.

There is no question, Tennessee has had offensive line struggles the past couple of years, and until they prove otherwise, we are left to think the offensive line will continue to struggle. If that is the case, Long could have a career game as he did against the Cowboys last season.

It will be interesting to watch if Tennessee’s offensive line and control the line of scrimmage. If they can get to the second level and contain a play like Long, it could be a big day on the ground for Ty Chandler and company.

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