Tennessee Football: Top Five Performers in 49-13 Win vs. Virginia

Tennessee offensive lineman Mo Clipper Jr. (56) Tennessee wide receiver Squirrel White (10) and Tennessee running back Dylan Sampson (6) after a game between Tennessee and Virginia in Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn., Saturday, Sept. 2, 2023. Tennessee defeated Virginia 49-13.
Tennessee offensive lineman Mo Clipper Jr. (56) Tennessee wide receiver Squirrel White (10) and Tennessee running back Dylan Sampson (6) after a game between Tennessee and Virginia in Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn., Saturday, Sept. 2, 2023. Tennessee defeated Virginia 49-13.
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Tennessee Football had a fantastic showing last weekend and put together four straight quarters of pure dominance to start the season off 1-0.

From top to bottom, the whole volunteer team had a great showing. Whether it was getting hype on the benches or making plays on the field, it was an all-around great team win. There’s no better way to start the season off than going 1-0, and now it’s onto the next week. But before that, let’s recap the top 5 performers in the Tennessee Football victory this past weekend.

Sep 2, 2023; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; The Tennessee Volunteers mascot runs through the end zone with a flag after a touchdown during the second half against the Virginia Cavaliers at Nissan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 2, 2023; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; The Tennessee Volunteers mascot runs through the end zone with a flag after a touchdown during the second half against the Virginia Cavaliers at Nissan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

#5) James Pearce Jr.

James Pearce Jr. had an incredible game for the Vols in week 1 against the Cavaliers. Pearce had 3 tackles, 2 solo, and 2 sacks, helping lead the Vols in sacks and also helping to carry the defense. 2 of his tackles were for loss, and he had an excellent game.

Pearce is a sophomore defensive lineman weighing 242 pounds and standing 6 feet 5 inches. He is an absolute workhorse, and I think he will be making a huge impact this year for the Volunteer’s defense.