Tennessee Football: Three Takeaways From Vols’ 30-13 Win vs. Austin Peay

1 of 3

Tennessee Football squeaked by Austin Peay in their home opener, which has left Vols fans uncertain about the future.

The Volunteers welcomed Austin Peay to Neyland Stadium in what should’ve been a blowout ended up being much closer than expected. The game didn’t start on time due to weather, but kicked off just 30 minutes after expected. Neyland Stadium was a packed house and once again was completely sold out. Let’s dive into three key takeaways from the game and how the Volunteers can improve heading into Florida week.

Sep 9, 2023; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers head coach Josh Heupel gestures to the crowd during the second half against the Austin Peay Governors at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Joe Milton III’s Accuracy

I have one word for Joe Milton’s “bad game”… overreaction. There’s no denying that Joe Milton struggled at the beginning of the game. Still, everyone saying the season is over and completely doubting him is entirely wrong.

According to UT Sports:

"“Quarterback Joe Milton III shook off a 1-for-7 first quarter through the air, completing 11 straight passes in the second frame to help his team grab its first lead. He finished the night 21-of-33 for 228 yards passing with two touchdowns and also added a rushing score. Wide receiver Ramel Keyton (five yards) and tight end McCallan Castles (43 yards) were Milton’s targets on the TD tosses.”"

While he may have struggled in the beginning, he finished strong. Once he started getting into the swing of things, he tore apart the Austin Peay defense. Joe Milton III has all of the skills to be the best quarterback in the country, and he continues to show glimpses of that; it’s only a matter of time until he puts all four quarters together.

Home/Vols Football