Tennessee football vs. WVU: Vols and Mountaineers keys to the game

6. Turnover battle

This seems to be a critical factor in any game. And yes, there is some truth to that. Why must we always bring up the turnover margin in any match-up? Well, it’s the most important determinant of success and always has been. That’s going to be a case again for this game.

West Virginia had 26 turnovers overall last year, tied for the 11th most in all of FBS. Their turnovers included 14 overall interceptions, 12 of which were by Will Grier before he got hurt, and then 12 fumbles.

Meanwhile, they were middle of the pack in turnovers gained, ranked No. 60 with 19. The minus-seven turnover margin was good for No. 105 in the country. As a result, despite all of their big plays, WVU is vulnerable here, and Tennessee football can take advantage. In fact, this game could come down to whether or not West Virginia can take care of the football.

Now, to be fair, the Vols were No. 88 in turnover margin at minus-three on the year. But that had more to do with them being only No. 97 in turnovers gained with just 15, and the only reason they gained so few is offenses were rarely put in positions to have to take risks against them last year.

The Vols actually weren’t that bad at taking care of the football. They were right in the middle of the pack with 18 turnovers on the year. This season, if they can keep their average turnover ratio on offense and transition into a defense that forces turnovers with the 3-4, they can win this game. WVU will definitely be vulnerable. Heck, that’s how UT won its opener last year.