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Tennessee football vs. Tennessee Tech: Five Golden Eagles to watch for

By Caleb Calhoun

MADISON, WI - SEPTEMBER 07: A Tennessee Tech Golden Eagles helmet on the sidelines during the game against the Wisconsin Badgers at Camp Randall Stadium on September 07, 2013 in Madison, Wisconsin. (Photo by Mike McGinnis/Getty Images)
MADISON, WI - SEPTEMBER 07: A Tennessee Tech Golden Eagles helmet on the sidelines during the game against the Wisconsin Badgers at Camp Randall Stadium on September 07, 2013 in Madison, Wisconsin. (Photo by Mike McGinnis/Getty Images) /
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KNOXVILLE, TN – SEPTEMBER 09: A general view of the outside of Neyland Stadium prior to the game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Indiana State Sycamores on September 9, 2017 in Knoxville, Tennessee. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
KNOXVILLE, TN – SEPTEMBER 09: A general view of the outside of Neyland Stadium prior to the game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Indiana State Sycamores on September 9, 2017 in Knoxville, Tennessee. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /

3. Chris Tucker, DE

Senior; 6’2″ 270 pounds; Hometown: Jackson, Tenn.

So far this year, Devin Squires has been the breakout star at defensive end, as he has come away with two and a half tackles for a loss, a sack and six total tackles, three of which were solo. The true freshman is likely the future at defensive end for the Golden Eagles.

This year, however, Chris Tucker is still the main guy. Even if Squires has made an impact early, Tucker is the guy you can rely on. He made All-Ohio Valley preseason first team for a reason. Over the last two years, through 19 games, he has had 20.5 tackles for a loss and 9 sacks. He also forced one fumble, recovered three and had 90 tackles, 39 of which were solo.

Through two games in 2021, Tucker has just four tackles, none of which were solo, and an assist on a tackle for a loss. He also has a pass breakup. However, he’ll get it going eventually. A transfer from the Temple Owls who has started the past three years at TTU, Tucker drew the attention of FBS coaches for a reason.

Given Tennessee football’s issues in pass protection last week and the questionable health of their offensive line, Tucker could be extremely tough to deal with. The Vols have to take him seriously given their quarterback issues.

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