Tennessee football: Top 10 SEC stars Vols have to account for in 2021
Whenever you play in the SEC, you’ve got a brutal slate. Even with an easier than usual schedule this year for Tennessee football, it’s no different. The Vols have plenty of elite teams in the league they will have to account for, and if they are going to navigate their way to a winning season at all Josh Heupel’s first year, they have to deal with plenty of players as well.
Some programs are more difficult because they have a complete team with no standout stars to handle. However, others have specific players carrying their teams. Then there are some loaded with standout stars at every position.
As we get set to break down the toughest players in the league the Vols will have to deal with this year, we’ll be looking at every position. Obviously, with a new system, UT is looking for weapons of its own to be difficult for other schools. While they continue working on that, let’s break down the top 10 SEC stars Tennessee football will have to account for in 2021.
Pick Analysis. 10. 833. Scouting Report. Offensive lineman. Kentucky Wildcats. Darian Kinnard. player
Senior; 6’5″ 345 pounds
Yes, an offensive lineman made this list. Remember how the Kentucky Wildcats blew out the Vols last year? All anybody can talk about are the four turnovers, including two pick-sixes by Jarrett Guarantano, to spot a 17-0 lead. However, less discussed is what UK did to Rocky Top in the second half of that game.
Mark Stoops’ team controlled the clock and marched down the field three times for two touchdowns and a field goal. The UK offensive line dominated the Vols, and Darian Kinnard was a huge reason for that.
With Kinnard leading the way, UK’s play was enough to get then-UT defensive line coach Jimmy Brumbaugh fired immediately. This year, Kinnard is back with All-American expectations. If Tennessee football is going to beat Kentucky, the Vols will have to get pressure up front. That means offsetting Kinnard’s dominance, which there’s no formula for yet.