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Tennessee at Oklahoma: Player of the game and final score predictions
By Jason Hall
Published:
Tennessee faces its greatest test thus far in a primetime road matchup at No. 4 Oklahoma Saturday. The Vols look to capitalize on a 2-0 start to 2014 with a monumental upset of the Sooners in Norman. Oklahoma is a 21-point favorite and a serious contender for the 2014 national championship. Tennessee is looking to make its first bowl game appearance since 2011 and finish with a winning record for the first time since the 2009 season.
The Vols are out to make a statement. With Oklahoma heavily favored, Tennessee has the opportunity to prove that its hot start is the product of an improved roster, rather than weak competition. The Sooners also have something to prove. Head coach Bob Stoops has been vocal of his displeasure SEC’s perceived dominance by the media. With a win, Stoops will hold a 6-5 career head coaching record against the Southeastern Conference and another example to back his opinions.
Player of the Game: Trevor Knight, QB, Oklahoma
Following a legendary performance in the 2014 Sugar Bowl, Trevor Knight has since lived up to high expectations with 552 yards and three touchdowns passing, along with 52 yards and a touchdown rushing. Knight will face a young Tennessee defensive line that holds a disadvantage in size and experience compared to the Sooners’ massive 0-line. The sophomore quarterback will have plenty of time in the pocket and should connect with star receiver Sterling Shepard on several occasions during Saturday’s game.
Prediction: Tennessee- 21, Oklahoma- 35
Tennessee is definitely an improved team from last season. Justin Worley looks like a completely different quarterback and the skill players have much more talent and speed that last year’s group. This game shouldn’t be as ugly as Week 3 against Oregon in 2013. However, Oklahoma definitely has the edge in talent level and experience. The Vols will rely too heavily on players seeing their first road action in an extremely hostile environment. This bodes well for the Sooners, who have plenty of returning starters and an advantage in position matchups.
A former freelance journalist from Nashville, Jason covers Tennessee, Vanderbilt and Kentucky
