Here are five takeaways from Tennessee’s 24-17 win against Vanderbilt.

1. Joshua Dobbs gets it done on the ground. Despite a lackluster passing performance, Dobbs was solid as a mobile option. The sophomore led with 91 yards and two touchdown on 21 attempts. Dobbs is still a raw talent and will improve with more in-game experience. The extra bowl game practices should further his development.

2. Jalen Hurd’s injury. Hurd exited Saturday’s game in the first quarter after rushing for 21 yards on five carries. The freshman was evaluated by trainers and participated in a concussion test. Butch Jones called the injury an “upper-body extremity” during his postgame press conference.

3. The offensive line still needs to improve. Tennessee allowed three sacks in Saturday’s game. The Commodores also recorded 12 tackles for loss, including five by Stephen Weatherly. Tennessee has allowed 42 sacks in 2014 and needs to improve to be a legitimate contender next season.

4. Barnett-Maggitt is an elite duo. Curt Maggitt added two sacks to his team-best total of 11. Derek Barnett also had a sack, extending his school freshman record to 10. The duo should be the SEC’s top pass rush unit in 2015 as Barnett gains more experience.

5. Vols are going bowling. Tennessee is bowl eligible for the first time since 2010. The Vols’ win wasn’t pretty, but it was enough to earn a postseason game and improve their record in Jones’ second season as head coach. Tennessee’s young roster gets an extra month of practice that should benefit the rising program.

Jason Hall

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