2-Minute Drill: Will Tennessee’s freshmen be ready for road debut at Oklahoma?

The Tennessee Volunteers are quickly approaching tonight’s matchup against No. 4 Oklahoma. The game not only marks the first time Tennessee will play visitors this season, but also the road debut of a talented freshman class that plays a major role in the team’s rotation.

“Over half of our football team will be going on their first road trip,” head coach Butch Jones said. “But I am looking forward to it. I think it is going to be a great challenge for these youngsters. But I think it is needed in the evolution and maturity of our football team.”

Jones noted that one-third of Tennessee’s roster would be flying for the first time. The pressure is on the Vols’ young roster to compete against a national powerhouse in a hostile environment.

Running back Jalen Hurd may have the most pressure of all. A five-star prospect, Hurd is not only regarded as one of Tennessee’s top prospects for 2014, but has also seen the majority of carries from the backfield. Josh Malone is also expected to see a major role in the absence of No. 2 wide receiver Von Pearson.

While Tennessee returns zero starters from 2013 on the offensive and defensive lines, Oklahoma holds a steady advantage in both size and experience. The Sooners’ o-line protects star quarterback Trevor Knight who, following a historic Sugar Bowl performance, has lived up to preseason hype with a strong start to the 2014 season.

Playing such a large role in Tennessee’s player rotations, the freshmen will need to have an impressive performance facing major odds. The Vols first-year players have talent and speed, but may struggle to match an experienced Oklahoma roster.

Jason Hall

A former freelance journalist from Nashville, Jason covers Tennessee, Vanderbilt and Kentucky