It sure wasn't easy, and it wasn't the kind of game people were hoping for, but in the end, a win was posted. That's right, the Tennessee Volunteers recorded a 28-18 win over Kentucky, with stars on both sides of the ball putting on a show to help Josh Heupel out.
With the victory, the Vols are 7-1 on the season and remain the No. 7 team in the country. Is it time to start dreaming about the College Football Playoff? You bet. Before moving on to Mississippi State, though, we're taking a look back at the biggest difference-makers from the win, while also bringing up one negative fans are still talking about. But first the good:
4. QB Nico Iamaleava (winner)
It if wasn't for some untimely drops from his wideouts, Nico Iamaleava might have had an even bigger night for the Vols. However, those drops didn't stop him from throwing for 292 yards and a touchdown - he completed 28-of-38 pass attempts. Iamaleava was precise with his passes and he looked sharp moving the ball downfield. This was one of his strongest performances of the year, no doubt about that.
3. DB Will Brooks (winner)
There aren't enough good things to say about Will Brooks. The defensive back is one of the best walk-ons in the country. He now has three interceptions on the season, and he nearly had another pick-six. Against Kentucky, he came up with a huge INT, as the Wildcats were driving and looking to take the lead. Brooks had other ideas, though, which had people inside of Neyland Stadium absolutely jacked up thanks to his brilliant play.
WILL BROOKS SAID GIMME THAT 😤 @Vol_Football pic.twitter.com/jnhkIYGKO0
— SEC Network (@SECNetwork) November 3, 2024
2. DC Tim Banks (loser)
We hate to call anyone out after a rivalry win like this, but defensive coordinator Tim Banks had a lot of people nervous on Saturday night. Not only that, but fans are still letting him have it a bit on social media. The Tennessee defense didn't look strong at all to open play up, with the Kentucky offense having no issues against his game plan. No disrespect to Mark Stoops' team, but Tennessee should never be giving up chunk plays and looking lost on defense against a team of that level. It's on Banks to clean things up moving forward.
1. RB Dylan Sampson (winner)
You already know we're saving the best for last here. Dylan Sampson made history for Tennessee in this win, setting the single-season touchdown record. His night didn't start off so great, though, as he was benched following a first-half fumble. Heupel sent a message to his elite playmaker, but the RB responded in the best way possible. Sampson is a true superstar and he took his benching in stride. He finished with 142 yards and two TDs in the win. He deserves all the praise he's getting right now.