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Here’s how the Tennessee Volunteers graded after their 45-42 win over South Carolina.
OFFENSE: A
The Vols held a 645-625 advantage in total yards, including a season-best 304 yards passing. Joshua Dobbs, who made his first start of the season, recorded 466 total yards (301 passing, 166 rushing) and five total touchdowns (two passing, three rushing)
Tennessee’s leading rusher Jalen Hurd excelled alongside the dual-threat quarterback. He rushed for 125 yards on 21 carries and caught seven passes for 58 yards, including a touchdown. The duo should prove to be dominant against opposing SEC defenses moving forward.
DEFENSE: C
In regards to points allowed, Saturday was Tennessee’s worst defensive performance of the season. The Vols defense was dominated by Pharoh Cooper. Cooper scored four touchdowns in Saturday’s game: one passing, one rushing and two receiving. His 233 yards were the most in school history for a single game and his 85-yard receptions was the longest of the Steve Spurrier era.
However, the “Orange Swarm” answered in the clutch by forcing a three-and-out on South Carolina’s final possession of regulation. After connecting on a field goal in overtime, Curt Maggitt and Derek Barnett recorded back-to-back sacks that pinned the Gamecocks out of field goal position.
SPECIAL TEAMS: C-
Kicker Aaron Medley missed two field goal attempts from over 40 yards in the third quarter. However, his 32-yard attempt in overtime was the deciding factor in Tennessee’s win on Saturday. Malik Foreman accounted for 23 yards on one kickoff return. Matt Darr recorded 98 total yards on three punts, averaging 32.7 yards per attempt and landing one inside the 20-yard line.
COACHING: B+
Butch Jones coached his best SEC game of the season by willing his team back facing a 14-point deficit late. However, the offensive scheme of coordinator Mike Bajakian still has some glaring flaws. For instance, the Vols short distance package is run out of a shotgun that backs the runner up several yards behind the line of scrimmage. This prevented Tennessee from scoring early on several plays, including their first red zone possession of the game.
OVERALL: A-
For the first time all season, Tennessee’s offense outplayed its defense. The Vols remained in contention thanks to a strong running game that opened up the passing attack. Tennessee looks more complete on offense with Dobbs under center and should be able to compete for bowl eligibility.
A former freelance journalist from Nashville, Jason covers Tennessee, Vanderbilt and Kentucky
