Tennessee defense analysis after Utah State
The Tennessee defense opened its season with a matchup against Utah State quarterback Chuckie Keeton, regarded by some as a preseason Heisman hopeful. However, Keeton was contained to just 144 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions on 18-of-35 passing in a losing effort. Tennessee held Utah State to just 244 yards of total offense. The Aggies turned the ball over three times, including a special teams fumble that set up the Vols’ second touchdown. Tennessee also held Utah State to a time of possession total of 24:51, far less than its own offense’s 34:29 total.
The Vols defensive line was the biggest concern heading into Sunday’s game. Tennessee returned zero starters and faced questions about inexperience in the trenches. But the line looked solid, providing pressure with four quarterback hurries, two tackles for loss and one sack.
Tennessee linebackers A.J. Johnson and Curt Maggitt entered the 2014 season with high expectations of success and were the most experienced players on the defensive side. However, it was their sophomore teammate Jalen Reeves-Maybin who led with 10 total tackles. Reeves-Maybin made an outstanding transition to full-time linebacker after spending most of his first season on special teams. The linebackers also helped the young defensive line by adding two tackles for loss and one QB hurry.
Tennessee’s defensive backs were also stellar against the Utah State offense. Cameron Sutton intercepted Keeton in the second quarter, while LaDarrell McNeil had a pass deflection. Brandon Swindall and Hunter Sharp tied for a team-best 37 yards each against the Tennessee defensive backs.
