Tennessee is hosting Mississippi State in a game on Saturday night that would be a perfect example of a trap game. The Bulldogs are a team that has struggled this season, and the Volunteers have a big road test looming next weekend. With that in mind, the team is looking to remain in control of its own destiny when it comes to the College Football Playoff race.

So far, so good for the Volunteers as they took a 14-0 lead in the 2nd quarter off a huge play in the pass game.

Quarterback Nico Iamaleava has thrown for 174 yards in the first half, including a 73-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Dont’e Thornton Jr.

quick strike.

ESPN
https://t.co/U7EhpnCvPW pic.twitter.com/QJCNrCmjJj

— Tennessee Football (@Vol_Football) November 10, 2024

Thornton is leading the way with 2 catches for 90 yards, and the Volunteers are finally getting the balance on offense that they have been looking for. Running back Dylan Sampson has been the focal point of the team for much of the season, as he entered the game on Saturday night with 980 yards and 19 touchdowns.

The Volunteers right now are in great shape with only 1 loss on the season, but they have a huge game looming next week. Tennessee will travel to Athens to take on a Georgia team that is looking to bounce back after its tough loss to Ole Miss on Saturday.

Mark Kern