Offensive improvement should fuel win over Auburn.
If there’s a college football program with a lot going on inside and out, it’s Auburn.
The big news of the week was that 24-year-old David Jenrath, a former staffer who had been inside the Tiger program, turned himself in to authorities when he was accused of stealing trade secrets and sending them to competitors.
That ranks pretty high on the strange-o-meter.
Anybody else wonder what he may have offered the Volunteers as Tennessee gets ready to entertain Auburn today?
Of course, Josh Heupel and many of his assistants probably know all too well what to expect from Alex Golesh, the Tigers head coach and Heupel’s former offensive coordinator.
One statistic that jumped off the page in Auburn’s first three games was sacks allowed: Auburn had given up 17 heading into last week’s win over Vanderbilt.
A replacement at right guard stopped the tidal wave of frustration and Vandy managed just one sack.
Tennessee’s defense, though, took about 14 steps forward in last week’s 20-17 loss to Texas. The Vols are No. 2 in the Southeastern Conference, giving up just 163.5 passing yards a game. Tennessee is No. 11 in the SEC against the run, yielding 118.75 yards a game. Auburn, however, is worse — No. 15 at 127.0.
The Vols’ run game will have a lot to prove itself again after the way it was shut down by the Longhorns (70 net yards). However, an alarming 10 sacks which deducted 73 yards were factored into the final rushing total.
Getting what had been the No. 4 run offense in the country back on track has to be a mandatory focus for Tennessee this week. Nothing happens without DeSean Bishop and whoever else is healthy being effective.
That means freshman quarterback Faizon Brandon has to be better. Lots better.
Heupel said Brandon has to be able to “let it rip” and not be concerned about throwing his first interception. Being too conservative with the pass led to several of those sacks.
The offensive line’s opportunity to make amends for what happened against Texas comes at a good time. The Tigers won’t have nearly the push Texas had.
All in all, it ain’t gonna be easy, but the Vols will prevail.
Tennessee 27, Auburn 17
TREVOR MCGEE: Tennessee 34, Auburn 28
Tennessee's running backs will bounce back against Auburn and rush for over 200 yards, taking pressure off of Faizon Brandon on Saturday. Auburn will try to make it a track race, but the Vols will get a stop when it matters to seal the win.
CALEB JARREAU: Tennessee 30, Auburn 21
The Vols get back on track against Auburn, even if some rain dampens the gameday.
JACK GLENNON: Tennessee 21, Aubur 17
If Tennessee takes care of the football, and forces Byrum Brown to turn the ball over more than once, they should have no problem winning this game. Due to their anemic offense, however, Tennessee will find a way to keep this game close.
THEO COLLI: Tennessee 26 Auburn 20
After Saturdays less than impressive offensive showing, I think people should expect some more growing pains from the true freshman QB and the rest of the offense. Not to say they won’t look improved, but it won’t be pretty.
The defense will continue to shine, ultimately being the difference maker on the day. Perhaps even a defensive touchdown is in order for Saturday as Alex Golesh returns to Knoxville.
