Tennessee football Smokey Points: Top 5 Vols performers in loss at Georgia

Tennessee football’s defensive line once again showed signs of life in the first half. It also once again went quiet in the second half, but that was due to lack of depth. The starting rotation is really hitting its stride, and Shy Tuttle, Kyle Phillips and Alexis Johnson all fought their guts out.

We could have really named any of them on this list, but Johnson was the guy in on the most plays. So we decided to name him. Johnson is finally living up to his four-star billing as a junior college transfer from two years ago after a legal issue and injuries limited him. He’s having a very strong senior campaign.

On Saturday, Johnson took advantage of the injuries on the Georgia offensive line to come away with seven tackles. He got the push necessary to break free many of the back end rushers, which is why the Vols’ defense looked so good in the first half.

Again, if he hadn’t gotten tired, there’s a chance Tennessee stages a legendary comeback. However, defensive tackles can only shoulder the load Johnson shouldered for so long. He did what he could, though, and for a second straight week, he was a major force on the defense in the first half.

With the Vols heading into the bye week, Johnson gives this team something to build off of. He’s been the best defensive tackle through five games, and the best news is he’s gotten better as the games have gotten bigger.