Tennessee football: Five key moments that defined Vols turnaround for 2019

3. Jauan Jennings go-ahead touchdown against the South Carolina Gamecocks

There are actually two plays here, as Jauan Jennings had two go-ahead touchdowns. But the second one that put Tennessee football in control for good is the one we’re referring to, and it was another big third down play.

It was assumed the Vols would have to win the game with defense. But after they allowed South Carolina to score 21 first-half points, conventional wisdom was Jarrett Guarantano would not be able to lead them back against Will Muschamp’s defense. Sure, UT had 17 points. But one touchdown was a punt return by Marquez Callaway. And they also failed on a 4th and goal play.

In the second half, Brent Cimaglia missed his first field goal under 40 yards all year. So it just seemed like it wasn’t UT’s night. Even after the Vols got the ball back and moved into S.C. territory, a 3rd and 14 came up. So they were obviously going to have to settle for a field goal and hope to stay behind 21-20. Then Guarantano and Jennings came through for the second time.

While being hit and suffering a wrist injury, Guarantano delivered a perfect pass into the end zone. Jennings was hit as he caught it and went to the ground. But he held onto the ball. So Guarantano, who had been slammed all year, delivered the pass of the season to Jennings.

It was a turnaround throw for him, even as he was knocked out of the game. And that’s why it was a turnaround play, as the Vols have turned things around behind Guarantano. They won this game 41-21, but that TD was the difference.