Perhaps the Vols are one of the most underrated teams in the nation this fall. In 2024, the Vols made the College Football Playoffs under a superior defense led by Tim Banks, along with a run game built around SEC Player of the Year Dylan Sampson. However, Tennessee took a major step back last fall, especially on defense. This led to Josh Heupel completely revamping everything, letting Banks leave and replacing him with the best defensive coordinator in the sport, Jim Knowles.
Aaron Torres made a great point in a recent tweet. The Vols have so much going for them this fall. The entire conference is overlooking the Vols, and I don't really get why. Sure, they do have a freshman quarterback, which isn’t ideal, but Tennessee has had success with Nico. While Aguilar did have college experience, it was his first time in the Tennessee system last fall, and he led the conference in yards during the regular season.
As SEC Media Days begins, my biggest question: Why is everyone so down on Tennessee?
— Aaron Torres (@Aaron_Torres) July 20, 2026
* Won 8 games in "down" year in 2025
* Had the No. 1 scoring offense in the SEC with a first year QB
* Return a 1k yard rusher, elite WRs, four o-linemen
* Bring in one of best DCs in the game
*… pic.twitter.com/pDcS4nBVWW
Tennessee can take a major step this fall
As previously mentioned, Tennessee has one of the best running backs in the conference in DeSean Bishop, who ran for nearly 1,100 yards last fall. He is one of the best returning players in the nation, regardless of position. Additionally, the Vols have a veteran offensive line in front of him, blocking not only for him but also for whichever quarterback wins the job. The Vols seem to be in good shape all over the offense, especially since they have two elite wide receiver options in Mike Matthews and Braylon Staley.
I get why people are down on the offense because of the quarterback situation. On the other hand, everything else around him is pretty much as good as it can get. Let's say Faizon Brandon does win the job as well, it wouldn't be so crazy to see a five-star freshman have a good year. Bryce Underwood did it at Michigan, and JKS did it at Cal.
On the other side of the ball, the defensive side is pretty revamped compared to where it was at this time last year. The Vols have better coaching and one of the best linebacker groups in the country, while the middle of their defensive line is rock solid. There are some concerns at edge, but with an improved secondary and a stout run defense, their defense should be sufficiently strong.
Overall, it might be a shock to the world if Tennessee does make it to the playoffs, but internally we could see this coming from miles away.
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