Tennessee football: Five reasons Ball State could upset Vols

4. So many new parts makes Ball State harder to prepare for

Most of the time, the experienced team has a massive advantage. Given how much talent Tennessee football returns and how much talent Ball State lost, that’s something that works in the Vols’ favor. However, in an opener, the opposite can be true, as Josh Heupel and co. have no idea how to scheme for what they are facing.

New quarterback John Paddock has only played in garbage time. How do you scout Drew Plitt’s replacement back there? While their leader in touchdowns and all-purpose yards from last year, Justin Hall, is also gone, that also begs the question as to who will step in his place and become the team’s biggest weapon.

That’s just on offense. On defense, Ball State would seem to suffer from the loss of linebacker Jaylin Thomas, who led the team with four interceptions, and safety Bryce Cosby, who led the team in tackles for a loss and sacks. However, it could be system-based at the same time.

As a result, they could have new playmakers step up, and particularly when it comes to the pass rush, that may be a problem for the Vols, as Hendon Hooker is notoriously not the best at getting rid of the ball quickly. Neu could also throw things at the Vols early to set a tone with these changes, so watch out.