Defensive struggles persist as Tennessee survives Arkansas comeback

It was a slow start for the Vols, but Tennessee football settled in during the second half with a chance to run away with the win before Arkansas stormed back late in the fourth quarter to make things interesting. Tennessee was able to hold off Arkansas's comeback attempt with a 34-31 win. 

The Vols' third conference game of the season was another struggle for the Vols' defense. Whether it was defending the run in the first half or trying to slow down the passing game, Arkansas was able to do enough to keep things interesting throughout the game. 

The story of the first half was the Tennessee allowing 267 yards, including 179 rushing yards in the first half. It seemed like the Razorbacks were able to do virtually anything they wanted offensively throughout the first half, and it resulted in three scores on five first-half drives. 

Tennessee was able to get some stops and force some timely turnovers, but the Vols once again struggled getting off the field on third down, and especially struggled stopping Arkansas quarterback Taylen Green scrambling on third down. 

Tennessee's defense settled in throughout the second half, though, shutting out the Razorbacks' offense throughout most of the second half. 

Arkansas turned the ball over in three of its first four drives in the second half before scoring its first second-half points with just over eight minutes remaining in the game. 

That changed quickly with a little over eight minutes remaining in the fourth quarter, though, as Arkansas scored its first points of the half with a touchdown and responded with a second touchdown soon after to make it a three-point game before Tennessee's offense was able to ice the game. 

The Vols' offense, however, did a much better job executing and protecting the football. Aguilar showcased his skills with his arm and legs, totaling 221 passing yards and 1 passing touchdown, along with 59 rushing yards. 

DeSean Bishop led the team in rushing with 14 carries for 146 yards and a touchdown, but he left the game in the second half with a leg injury and did not return. Bishop torched the Razorbacks' defense, especially early in the second half, and helped lead an important opening drive to get points to start the second half. 

Peyton Lewis and Star Thomas were able to finish things for the Vols on the ground. Lewis had 20 yards and 2 touchdowns, while Thomas had 15 yards. 

The Vols were able to get the job done, winning another hard-fought SEC battle. Now, Tennessee will turn its focus to the Third Saturday in October and its trip to Tuscaloosa with its matchup against Alabama.