For the most part, Tennessee has put together one of its best first-half performances of the season against Mississippi State on Saturday.

The biggest issue for the Vols has been turnovers in the red zone, as freshman quarterback Brian Maurer has given the ball away twice to Mississippi State’s defense in the first half. Despite those two turnovers, Tennessee is still up at the break 10-3 thanks to an outstanding performance from the defense.

Following Maurer’s second interception of the game, Jarrett Guarantano entered the game. According to the SEC Network, Maurer was being evaluated in the medical tent.

When Guarantano came into the game, Tennessee did not throw the ball despite being in a position to possibly score a touchdown just before the first half ended. After three consecutive runs, Brent Cimaglia hit a 49-yard field goal as time expired.

While walking back to the locker room, Pruitt offered up this comment on Maurer’s status heading into halftime.

“Well, they are checking him out, I don’t know. We’ll see when we get inside,” Pruitt said.

Pruitt also commented on the play of his defense, which limited Mississippi State to just three points and forced two turnovers.

The Vols also limited Mississippi State running back Kylin Hill to just 13 yards on seven carries. Hill was leading the SEC in rushing entering the game. Tommy Stevens has completed six of 11 throws for 67 yards.

“We’ve got a couple of turnovers, that’s been good,” Pruitt added. “We gave up one play on third down but I think it’s probably one of the better halves we have played.”

Tennessee is up 10-3 at the break.