Tennessee is heading into an effectively elimination game against Oklahoma, with the loser facing their third loss of the season and all but eliminating themselves from the College Football Playoff.
It seems some throughout the Tennessee football building understand the importance of this game and Tennessee's hopes of returning to the College Football Playoff.
Tennessee defensive leader and linebacker Arion Carter was listed as questionable for Saturday, as he has turf toe in both feet. He remains a game-time decision as he works through his injury, but that might not keep him out of the game.
On3 Sports' Pete Nakos reports that Carter will likely play against Oklahoma instead of sitting out to heal his feet, although it is unclear how much of an impact he will be able to make.
Source tells @On3sports that Tennessee LB Arion Carter wants to go and contribute in the de facto College Football Playoff elimination game against Oklahoma. There is optimism that he will dress, but it remains to be seen how much he can contribute. https://t.co/UhBYu4MDy5
— Pete Nakos (@PeteNakos_) November 1, 2025
This is great news for Tennessee's defense, which has struggled mightily throughout the season. Losing Carter would add to the challenges this defense will face on Saturday against a strong Oklahoma offense coming to town.
Tennessee’s defense has been less than impressive this year, but Carter has been a bright spot. He leads the team in tackles with 61 total tackles on the year, with one sack to go with it.
Losing Carter means a struggle defense loses its best tackler, but his presence alone could impact how the Sooners attack the Vols’ defense.
We will see if Carter is able to go and the kind of impact he can make tonight as the Vols welcome Oklahoma to Neyland Stadium for the Vols’ annual Dark Mode game.