There’s no nice way to put it, Tennessee’s offensive line was abysmal on Saturday.

Facing No. 4 Oklahoma’s dominant pass rushing unit, the Vols linemen allowed five sacks and nine QB hurries during their 34-10 loss in Norman.

The o-line did no favors for the rushing attack either as Tennessee backs combined for -13 yards in the first half. Somehow, Jalen Hurd managed to rush for 97 yards after a big second half, despite no help in the trenches.

Many considered last year’s offensive line “underachievers” for entering with huge expectations and failing to produce a winning record. However, Tennessee fans were likely longing for the experienced combination of Ja’wuan James, Antonio Richardson, James Stone, Zach Fulton and Alex Bullard during Saturday’s game. Instead, Tennessee fields a starting lineup of players whose combined game appearances couldn’t fill an entire regular season schedule.

The lack of protection was the Vols’ biggest flaw in Saturday’s loss. Justin Worley was efficient when he wasn’t eating dirt. Hurd looked like the five-star athlete that dominated Tennessee high school football. But the lack of help on the offensive line ultimately prevented the Vols’ offense from capitalizing on drives.

Each of Worley’s turnovers was caused by constant pressure. His blindside fumble in the first quarter is the most obvious of the three. His two interceptions on desperation throws late in the game were also the product of a collapsing pocket. Tennessee has plenty of talent at the skill positions, but for the wide receivers to have enough time to get open, the offensive line will have to protect their quarterback.

The loss of Jacob Gilliam made things worse for an already inexperienced Volunteer offensive line. Things don’t seem to be looking any brighter otherwise. As Tennessee enters a tough stretch of SEC matchups, improvements must be made in the trenches. To compete with the likes of Alabama, Georgia and others, the Vols will need to protect Worley in the pocket and open holes for running backs.