In just two short days, Tennessee Football will welcome the Texas A&M Aggies to Neyland Stadium in a must-win for the Volunteers.
Tennessee football is currently 4-1, Texas A&M is 4-2, and both teams need a win this weekend heading into the thick of the SEC schedule. Despite the slow start to the season for the Vols, falling early to Florida, and countless injuries, the Vols had a fantastic showing two weeks ago against South Carolina and gained some respect and confidence back that they desperately needed.
On the other hand, Texas A&M just lost at home to Alabama last weekend. They are certainly more banged up than the Vols are since they were just on a bye week, but the Vols also are without their star receiver for the rest of the season.
There are several factors that go into this game, but three of which stand out the most to me.
3) Dont’e Thornton Stepping Up.
Despite a sluggish start to the season, Thornton’s impact on the field is now more critical than ever, particularly with the absence of star receiver Bru McCoy. To date, he has managed just 7 receptions for 89 yards and has yet to score a touchdown in the four games he’s played this year. Furthermore, Thornton faced an injury setback, but with hopes of recovery by now, he has a golden opportunity to demonstrate his potential.
Although he has been adapting to a new offensive system, Thornton’s incredible talent places him among the elite players in college football. To secure a victory in this pivotal game, the Volunteers will need him to step up and showcase his potential, providing the much-needed offensive firepower and playmaking ability that can help Tennessee secure a win and maintain their momentum in the competitive SEC.