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Tennessee football 2021 highlights: Top 10 plays of the season

By Caleb Calhoun

Nov 27, 2021; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers defensive back Theo Jackson (26) celebrates after a sack during the first half against the Vanderbilt Commodores at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bryan Lynn-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 27, 2021; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers defensive back Theo Jackson (26) celebrates after a sack during the first half against the Vanderbilt Commodores at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bryan Lynn-USA TODAY Sports /
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4. Theo Jackson 55-yard interception return touchdown vs. Vanderbilt

You always love seeing seniors make a play on Senior Day, and Theo Jackson did that for Tennessee football against the Vanderbilt Commodores. The Vols had clinched a bowl and were 6-5. They just wanted to now clinch a winning record in their final regular season game.

Jackson, who had a breakout season his first full year starting at nickel, was in his last year of eligibility. This was his last home game after spending four years before this one forced into a utility role in the secondary. On Vandy’s first drive, he made sure this final game would be a memorable one.

Vandy was actually moving the ball, having gotten a first down and brought up a 2nd and 2. Ken Seals then passed on that second down play, though, and Jackson immediately picked it off and ran it back for a score. Solon Page III had the other pick-six for the Vols in a blowout win, his against the Tennessee Tech Golden Eagles.

Despite that play by Page, Jackson’s pick was easily more impressive. He did it against an FBS school and also did it to break a scoreless tie, not with the game in hand. The Vols also needed it since they struggled uncharacteristically on offense in that first quarter.

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