Tennessee moves up multiple places in ESPN’s updated power rankings following Week 2
By Luke Greco
Published:
Tennessee continues to climb ESPN’s power rankings, as it comes in at No. 15 in the updated power rankings, up 3 spots from its previous ranking.
Tennessee rolled in its Week 2 victory over East Tennessee State, 72-17. Josh Heupel and the Vols continue to show why they are regarded as one of the top offenses in college football.
Tennessee quarterback Joey Aguilar had another great game, completing 23 of his 31 passing attempts for 288 yards and 2 touchdowns. The Vols had 2 receivers who eclipsed 100 yards this week. Chris Brazzell II hauled in 9 receptions for 125 yards and 2 touchdowns, and Mike Matthews caught 6 passes for 111 yards and a touchdown. The passing attack has been elite for the Vols, as in two games, Aguilar has over 550 yards passing.
The rushing attack for the Vols also had some success against the Buccaneers. Star Thomas carried the ball 12 times for 69 yards but found himself in the end zone on a fourth of his carries, scoring 3 touchdowns.
Here’s some analysis from ESPN’s Max Olson:
You’re not going to find much to nitpick about Tennessee’s 72-17 blowout of East Tennessee State. Transfer QB Joey Aguilar continued his impressive start with 288 passing yards, two TDs, no sacks and no turnovers. The Vols’ offense racked up 717 yards, fourth-most in the Josh Heupel era, and has a 100% red zone conversion rate this season. One key question as the showdown with Georgia looms is the health of Tennessee’s defensive line. Starting defensive tackle Jaxson Moi missed the ETSU game along with Daevin Hobbs and Tyree Weathersby. Getting Moi back in the lineup this week would be a big deal as the Vols get ready to face the Bulldogs’ rushing attack.
The Vols offense will need to stay hot as they host the Georgia Bulldogs next week in a top-15 showdown.
Kickoff is scheduled for Sept. 13 at 3:30 p.m. ET.
