The Tennessee Volunteers dominated Utah State in their season opener Sunday at Neyland Stadium. Tennessee’s defense held the Aggies to 244 yards and answered the pressure of matching up against Heisman hopeful Chuckie Keeton. Keeton went 18-of-35 with 144 passing yards, one touchdown and two interceptions. The dual-threat quarterback was also stopped on the ground, recording just 12 yards on eight carries.

As a team, Tennessee played outstanding defense in its season opener. Here’s how each unit graded after Sunday’s win:

Defensive Line: Tennessee entered the game with zero prior starting experience on the defensive line. However, the front four looked spectacular, applying pressure in the pass rush and stopping runs at the line of scrimmage. Tennessee’s line accounted for three qb hurries, three tackles for loss and a sack, while holding starting running backs Joe Hill and Jojo Natson to a under 50 yards each. Entering the season as a cause of concern, the Tennessee line exceeded expectations and played a major role in a strong defensive effort.

Grade: A

Linebackers: A.J. Johnson and Curt Maggitt entered the season with high expectations. The veterans are the two most experienced players on Tennessee’s defense and provide leadership to a young team. Johnson dominated with nine tackles, one forced fumble, one interception and one pass deflection. Maggitt added two tackles, one for a four yard loss. But the biggest surprise was the emergence of Jalen Reeves-Maybin. Reeves-Maybin led the Vols with 10 tackles and an assisted tackle for loss. The sophomore made an excellent transition to starting outside linebacker after leading Tennessee in special teams tackles in 2013.

Grade: A

Defensive Backs: Tennessee’s pass coverage was outstanding Sunday. Cameron Sutton was literally all over the field recording recording four tackles (one for loss) and an interception. Safety Brian Randolph added five tackles of his own. Tennessee’s pass coverage held Utah State receivers to a combined 144 yards on 18 catches. Brandon Swindall and Hunter Sharp tied for a team-best 37 yards.

Grade: A