The Josh Heupel era at Tennessee got off to a 1-0 start with the 38-6 win over 2020 winless program Bowling Green.

No, it wasn’t pretty, but who cares about pretty when you win games. The Vols have been on the end of so many ugly losses in recent history that there’s no such thing as an ugly win right now.

Yes, there are immediate concerns even ahead of the Week 2 matchup against Pittsburgh; however, starting 1-0 is certainly a positive that the program can build upon.

All eyes were on quarterback Joe Milton and the Vols offense, and Milton got off to a strong first-half start. The Michigan quarterback transfer led the Vols to 2 quick touchdown drives to start the game, even scoring the first touchdown of the Josh Heupel era. The passing game was sharp and effective to start, too.

Everyone knew the offense under Heupel would be fast, but this unit can go really fast when it wants to. However, there are some deficiencies. Namely, Milton’s inability to be a difference-maker in the passing game, as he was wildly inconsistent.

Milton did connect with Cedric Tillman on a 40-yard touchdown pass in the fourth quarter, but he also overthrew several open receivers for would-be touchdowns. It never looked like he got into a good rhythm. Milton finished 11-of-24 for 140 yards and 1 touchdown. He also added 44 rushing yards and 2 rushing touchdowns.

On the positive note, Tennessee’s running game, led by its offensive line and running backs, was a difference-maker. The Vols will be able to move the ball on the ground this season; however, Milton has to be able to hit some big throws down the field, too. Otherwise, defenses are going to take away the run, especially once SEC play starts.

Running backs Tiyon Evans (116 yards) and Jabari Small (124 yards) both finished with 100-yard performances, and both scored at least 1 rushing touchdown.

Tennessee’s defense held Bowling Green to 2-14 on third downs, 219 total yards of offense and allowed just 32 total rushing yards. The Falcons offense never had a chance against Tennessee’s defense.