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Tennessee football vs. Vanderbilt: 10 keys to the game

By Caleb Calhoun

Sep 22, 2018; Knoxville, TN, USA; Checkerboard end zone at Neyland Stadium before a game between the Tennessee Volunteers and Florida Gators. Mandatory Credit: Bryan Lynn-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 22, 2018; Knoxville, TN, USA; Checkerboard end zone at Neyland Stadium before a game between the Tennessee Volunteers and Florida Gators. Mandatory Credit: Bryan Lynn-USA TODAY Sports /
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Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) hands the ball off to Tennessee running back Jabari Small (2) during a game at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium in Gainesville, Fla. on Saturday, Sept. 25, 2021.Kns Tennessee Florida Football
Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) hands the ball off to Tennessee running back Jabari Small (2) during a game at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium in Gainesville, Fla. on Saturday, Sept. 25, 2021.Kns Tennessee Florida Football /

1. Will Vandy be able to keep the Vols from dominating on the ground?

Vanderbilt’s potential rushing attack is a question, as they haven’t run it well consistently all year when you look at the stats. On Tennessee football’s side, though, there is nothing potential about it. This rushing attack is elite.

With or without Tiyon Evans, the Vols dominate teams on the ground. Their total offense is ranked No. 16 in the nation, and it’s because of their No. 24 ranked rushing offense, which averages over 200 yards a game. Last week, without Evans, three different Vols running backs hit the 60-yard or better mark while averaging over six yards a carry.

Those guys all scored too and had four touchdowns total. Meanwhile, the Commodores have a horrendously bad rush defense. Honestly, their defense is bad in general, but their rush defense is worse, and the Vols win by their rush offense, which is a combination of their offensive line, their running backs and Hendon Hooker’s mobility.

Next. Five Vols to watch for against Vanderbilt. dark

For the year, Vandy allows 5.4 yards per carry and over 185 yards a game, keeping them out of the top 100. Having any chance against Tennessee football is simple. They’ve got to somehow not let that happen. If UT torches them on the ground early, this one will be over quickly.

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