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Tennessee football report card: Grading the Vols in their win over UTEP

By Caleb Calhoun

KNOXVILLE, TN - SEPTEMBER 15: Running back Quardraiz Wadley #4 of the UTEP Miners runs for yards with Linebacker Daniel Bituli #35 of the Tennessee Volunteers in pursuit during the second half of the game between the UTEP Miners and Tennessee Volunteers at Neyland Stadium on September 15, 2018 in Knoxville, Tennessee. Tennessee won the game 24-0. (Photo by Donald Page/Getty Images)
KNOXVILLE, TN - SEPTEMBER 15: Running back Quardraiz Wadley #4 of the UTEP Miners runs for yards with Linebacker Daniel Bituli #35 of the Tennessee Volunteers in pursuit during the second half of the game between the UTEP Miners and Tennessee Volunteers at Neyland Stadium on September 15, 2018 in Knoxville, Tennessee. Tennessee won the game 24-0. (Photo by Donald Page/Getty Images) /
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Photo by Donald Page/Getty Images /

Defense

Defensive line: D

Just like the offensive line, the Tennessee football defensive line was not supposed to be one of the biggest weaknesses on the Vols this year. But they continue to struggle, and once again they got hardly anything going on Saturday. The Vols did allow the UTEP Miners to rush for over 100 yards, which is pretty embarrassing. Only Alexis Johnson registered a quarterback hurry in the game, and none of the linemen got any sacks. Simply put, this unit has a ton of work to do, and they have to do it fast. The Vols were far too sluggish in the trenches, and if that continues, they are in for a rough ride in the SEC.

Linebackers: A

While the defensive line did not get the push it needs to get in a 3-4, the linebackers still managed to make plays. Jonathan Kongbo and Darrell Taylor did not pick up any sacks, but they both registered two quarterback hurries apiece, showing they finally came to life. Again, they need the push up front to be able to wreak havoc the way they want to. On the inside, it was even more impressive. Darrin Kirkland Jr. and Daniel Bituli each registered a sack, and even Will Ignont came in with a tackle for a loss. So these guys were the biggest reason that the Vols’ defense played shutdown football. They didn’t allow Kai Locksley to roll out and make plays with his legs either.

Secondary: B

This may be a bit unfair, as the Vols played a pretty complete game in the secondary. They forced Locksley to go 9-for-22 with only 39 yards. That’s why they at least get a B. However, the linebackers did much of the work by containing Locksley. There were too many plays begging for one of the defensive backs to get an interception, and it didn’t come. As Jeremy Pruitt stated in the postgame, the Vols need to create turnovers on defense to win. They had opportunities in the secondary and didn’t capitalize. That’s a major problem, and again, it’s why they get a B.

Overall defensive grade: B-

Shutting out a team always warrants respect. But the expectations are higher for these guys in Knoxville, and Jeremy Pruitt has set them. Tennessee football needs to take better advantage of its opportunities on defense, and there were still some real concerns that showed Saturday. So that’s why they get a B-.

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