This locker room is incredibly close. That's what is being made quite clear for the Tennessee football team, as the vibes are impeccable following the Week 1 win over Syracuse. For our game balls this week - if we had two - they no question go to Joey Aguilar and Colton Hood.
Aguilar was brilliant with the ball in his hands on offense, while Hood was stellar defensively, including his scoop and score touchdown in the first half. After the final whistle, Hood was all smiles and understandably so. At the same time, he wasn't going to let people get away with their previous smack talk on Aguilar. Nope, he was quick to defend his QB after the strong showing he had:
Tennessee DB Colton Hood:
— Rocky Top Insider (@rockytopinsider) August 30, 2025
"Joey made plays. They said we wouldn't have a quarterback."
Colton Hood was quick to back Joey Aguilar after the Tennessee football win
This is what you love to see. Hood plays the game with a ton of swagger and he definitely backs things up. He also isn't going to let anyone disrespect his quarterback. Thankfully, Aguilar was able to have a strong debut too, winning over Tennessee fans after the game with an awesome, humble quote.
On the day, the new starting signal-caller tossed for 247 yards and three touchdowns. His 73-yard TD to Braylon Staley is something that people are probably going to watch on repeat until the Vols take the field next weekend.
That game is going to take place at Neyland Stadium and you know the stands are going to be PACKED to support Aguilar, Hood and the rest of the Tennessee players. This team made a statement in Week 1 and people in Knoxville are fully believing that a return trip to the CFP could be in the cards.
In order for that to happen, Aguilar is going to have to be at his best and Hood is also going to have to look like a stud too. Thankfully for the Tennessee defense, Jermod McCoy will hopefully be able to return in the coming weeks, which will only make the Tennessee defense even stronger the rest of the way.