Tennessee football: Top five Vols performers in 42-17 win at Vanderbilt

Dec 12, 2020; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers wide receiver Velus Jones Jr. (1) catches a touchdown as he is defended by Vanderbilt Commodores cornerback Allan George (28) during the first half at Vanderbilt Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 12, 2020; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers wide receiver Velus Jones Jr. (1) catches a touchdown as he is defended by Vanderbilt Commodores cornerback Allan George (28) during the first half at Vanderbilt Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports
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Tennessee running back Ty Chandler (8) races up the field for a touchdown during the third quarter at Vanderbilt Stadium Saturday, Dec. 12, 2020 in Nashville, Tenn.Gw43286
Tennessee running back Ty Chandler (8) races up the field for a touchdown during the third quarter at Vanderbilt Stadium Saturday, Dec. 12, 2020 in Nashville, Tenn.Gw43286

9 carries for 61 yards; 1 TD

Similar to J.T. Shrout and Harrison Bailey, Tennessee football often has two running backs who could make the list every week. Ty Chandler and Eric Gray are often the top two performers for the Vols’ offense, and while they weren’t at the top in this game, both had highly productive games and deserve a shoutout for their play.

Gray actually did gain more yards overall. He had 13 carries for 74 yards and another 9-yard receptions. However, Chandler was more efficient and actually had a score. As a result, we put him on this list over Gray.

Based on the carries, Chandler averaged 6.8 yards, and Gray averaged 5.7 yards. Chandler also had the longest run of the two, a 20-yard run, which was when he had his one score. That came on the opening drive of the second half, when he had 3 carries for 43 yards to put Rocky Top up 35-10 and in complete control of the game.

Both Gray and Chandler have had big performances against Vandy in the past. Chandler had 7 carries for 88 yards and a touchdown in 2018. Gray had 246 yards and 3 touchdowns in 2019. Both combined for 144 yards in this one, but Chandler was a bit more solid.