Tennessee football: 5 things that went right for the Vols on National Signing Day

No.3 – Beating Alabama for To’oto’o

Honestly, this could be ranked number one. Jeremy Pruitt “out-Sabaned” Nick Saban. Also, before we break down Henry To’oto’o, say a little prayer for Bob Kesling next season.

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With the First Pick

To’oto’o was the highest-rated linebacker from the state of California. 247Sports Composite has him ranked as the No.3 outside linebacker and the No.44 overall player in the nation.

Being from California, Chris Peterson and the Washington Huskies had an opportunity to sign the elite linebacker. However, Alabama was also in the hunt.

It appeared that Tennessee was going to swing and miss again To’oto’o, since Alabama was the leader in the clubhouse for the majority of his recruitment.

I know this sounds crazy, but Tennessee had a decent amount of stability this recruiting cycle and Alabama didn’t. Maybe the Tide losing defensive coordinator Tosh Lupoi was the deciding factor.

The four-star elite linebacker has impressive speed which helps him track down the ball carrier. It’s tough to tell if To’oto’o will see the field next fall although he should. He defends the pass well and is a great pass rusher on blitz packages.

The thought of pairing him with J.J. Peterson should scare for the rest of the SEC.