Tennessee football will have its hands full with Texas on Saturday
Tennessee football is playing host to No. 1 Texas, opening SEC play and matching up against the Longhorns for just the fourth time in program history.
Here are five keys to the matchup for the Vols.
1. Find consistency in the run game. Tennessee is the No. 1 rushing team in the SEC and fourth in FBS football heading into the matchup with Texas, averaging 298.7 yards per game. The ground game has been a staple under Josh Heupel and UT's offense, but it's even more important for this year's team with a first-year quarterback in Faizon Brandon. DeSean Bishop, Javin Gordon and Daune Morris need to be at the top of their game.
2. Make some noise defensively. Texas enters Knoxville with a suspect, at best, offense. Arch Manning, the nephew of UT great Peyton Manning, has been serviceable at QB — completing 59 of 96 passes for 661 yards and seven touchdowns — and the Vols have flashed on defense thus far. Penn State transfers are leading the way, with Amare Campbell, Xavier Gilliam and Dejuan Lane under first-year defensive coordinator Jim Knowles. A strong game defensively — and the backing of the 100,000 fans packing into Neyland Stadium — could be enough to will UT to the upset. Not to mention, Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian is 0-2 against defenses led by Jim Knowles.
3. Don't let the moment get too big. All eyes will be on Knoxville, despite what the Texas band may play, on Saturday. Even President Donald Trump is expected to be there today. Texas already has a big game under its belt with the home win over Ohio State, but the away environment will raise that bar. Texas hasn't won a road game as the No. 1 team since 1984.
4. Protect Faizon Brandon. Tennessee's offensive line has helped lead a dominant rushing attack, but the pass protection has been questionable at times. There's no doubt that Saturday will be the toughest game Brandon has played thus far as Tennessee's quarterback, and protecting him will be a priority if UT wants to find success. Texas surrendered 94 rushing yards and 278 yards through the air — opportunities will be there for Brandon if he has time.
5. Put on a show. Saturday offers a great opportunity for Tennessee on the national stage. Head coach Josh Heupel's flashy offense, a fun-to-watch defense and a packed stadium could go a long way in making an impact not just on Saturday but with possible recruits down the line.
