Despite the progression of the Volunteer program under head coach Butch Jones, Tennessee is facing a good deal of skepticism this offseason thanks to what many perceive as a lack of returning experience on offense. Anyone saying that clearly isn’t taking into account the returning offensive linemen on Rocky Top.

According to college football expert Phil Steele, no Power 5 team returns more starts on the offensive line heading into the 2017 season than Tennessee with 111 returning starts. Right behind the Vols at No. 3 in the nation and No. 2 among all Power 5 teams is Auburn with 106.

Returners Drew Richmond, Chance Hall, and Brett Kendrick all have starting experience at tackle for the Vols while Jashon Robertson, Venzell Boulware, and Jack Jones have starting experience in the interior of the line. Senior Coleman Thomas has starting experience all over the offensive line. One player that doesn’t even factor into this list that appears destined for early playing time in 2017 is five-star signee Trey Smith.

In a recent post on his website, Phil Steele ranked every college football offensive line in terms of returning starts for the 2017 season.

Here’s how Steele breaks down the returning starts for every SEC offensive line:

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