Tennessee football vs. Pitt: Five Panthers to watch

6’1″ 230 pounds; Hometown: Syracuse, N.Y.

Probably Pitt’s most notable player, SirVocea Dennis picked up right where he left off from 2020, when he had 14 tackles for a loss, four sacks and 55 tackles, 36 of which were solo. Now, he’s destined to become an even bigger star.

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Dennis had five tackles, one of which was solo, and assisted in a tackle for a loss against UMASS. That’s not the same pace in terms of big plays that he had in 2020, but you could also say he was being saved a bit because the game was in hand so early. Make no mistake, he’s still Pitt’s top linebacker when it comes to rushing the passer.

Given the fact that Tennessee football allowed three sacks last week to the Bowling Green Falcons, the Vols could be in trouble when it comes to dealing with Dennis. Pat Narduzzi will have him blitzing from all over the field, and if Joe Milton III is not accurate on his deep balls, Dennis will be the guy making plays while Milton eventually looks to go elsewhere.

To a degree, avoiding Dennis will be on Milton and his mobility. However, Dennis’ bread and butter is also stopping the run, so Jabari Small will have to be the main one to get around him, especially if Tiyon Evans doesn’t play. This will be a huge test for Small.