Rapid Reaction: Tennessee secures bowl eligibility with win at Vanderbilt
By Jason Hall
Published:
Quick thoughts from Tennessee’s 24-17 win over Vanderbilt:
What it means: Tennessee earned its sixth win of the season, securing bowl eligibility for the first time since 2010. The Vols also snapped Vanderbilt’s two-game winning streak in the annual matchup. With an extra game, Butch Jones can improve his team’s record by two games in his second season as head coach.
What I liked: Tennessee’s defense forced three interceptions. Justin Coleman, Todd Kelly Jr. and Brian Randolph each picked off Vanderbilt quarterbacks Patton Robinette and Johnny McCrary. Curt Maggitt and Derek Barnett each added a sack and brought constant pressure to the Commodores quarterbacks.
What I didn’t like: Tennessee should have beaten Vanderbilt by more than a touchdown. This is the same team that went winless in SEC games and defeated Charleston Southern by just one point. Injuries were also a cause of concern, as leading rusher Jalen Hurd missed the majority of the contest after being sidelined in the first quarter.
Who’s the man: Derek Barnett. Barnett extended his freshman school records for sacks (10.0) and tackles for loss (20.5). The four-star prospect proved once again that he’s already one of the best pass rushers in the SEC and should continue his progress as a sophomore.
Key plays: Tennessee’s decisive touchdown came with 3:08 remaining in the third quarter. The Vols went 75 yards on seven plays to take a 24-10 lead. Joshua Dobbs capped off the drive with an 8-yard run, his second of the game. Tennessee’s defense allowed a touchdown on Vanderbilt’s next possession, but kept the Commodores scoreless in the fourth quarter.
What’s next: Tennessee earns an extra game with Saturday’s win. During the broadcast, it was noted that representatives for the Music City Bowl and Liberty Bowl were in attendance and should be interested in the state’s most popular team playing in their games.
A former freelance journalist from Nashville, Jason covers Tennessee, Vanderbilt and Kentucky
