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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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Oct 30, 2021; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Vanderbilt Commodores running back Patrick Smith (42) celebrates with Vanderbilt Commodores quarterback Mike Wright (5) after a touchdown during the first half against the Missouri Tigers at Vanderbilt Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 30, 2021; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Vanderbilt Commodores running back Patrick Smith (42) celebrates with Vanderbilt Commodores quarterback Mike Wright (5) after a touchdown during the first half against the Missouri Tigers at Vanderbilt Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Vols’ ability to contain resurgent Vandy run game with Mike Wright

Converting third downs, not allowing big plays, scoring in the red zone and coming away with sacks and interceptions are all possibilities for Vanderbilt in this game given their strengths and Tennessee football’s weaknesses. However, they also have to have a way to move the ball, and this is where UT could be in trouble.

With Mike Wright replacing Ken Seals at quarterback, the ‘Dores have a much more potent rushing attack. Wright’s dual-threat abilities makes them a huge threat, and we just have to look at the past three games to see that.

Against Kentucky, Vanderbilt had 96 rushing yards. All came in the second half, the only half Wright played. They had 258 yards on the ground the week before Kentucky against Mizzou and over 200 yards this past week against Ole Miss. This team has found a rushing identity that comes with Wright’s legs.

Meanwhile, UT’s linebackers have major issues containing a rushing attack dual-threat quarterbacks. Ole Miss’ Matt Corral and the Alabama Crimson Tide’s Bryce Young both had their best rushing performances against them. Will Levis of Kentucky and Stetson Bennett of the Georgia Bulldogs also dominated them.

Taking that into account, the Vols could be in trouble here. They did a better job last week against South Alabama, but if Jeremy Banks and Aaron Beasley revert to their old ways against SEC competition, this could get interesting.

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