Joe Lunardi says Tennessee can “solidify” its case for a No. 1 seed with a win against Texas on Saturday.

The Vols will be taking on UT in the SEC/Big 12 Challenge this weekend. It’s a big game for both programs as they’re each fighting for top seeds in the NCAA Tournament.

Per Lunardi, a win for Tennessee would mean it slots into a No. 1 seed. A victory for the Longhorns would push Texas to a No. 2 seed, according to his analysis:

Tennessee enters this game on a 3-game winning streak. The Vols are 17-3 overall this season and have proven to be one of the top teams in the country.

Tennessee’s team is built off of one of the best defenses in recent memory. The Vols’ have the No. 1 defense in the country, per KenPom’s adjusted defensive efficiency ranking.

These 2 teams have met 7 times previously, with Texas holding a 4-3 advantage. The Longhorns have won back-to-back contests, including a 52-51 victory in 2022.

Tipoff from Knoxville is at 6:00 p.m. ET on Saturday evening.