Tennessee is used to overcoming adversity at this point.

The Vols will have to endure more shortcomings once again when they play South Carolina on Saturday.

UT will be without two defensive starters for the noon kickoff against the Gamecocks. Defensive back Theo Jackson and defensive tackle Elijah Simmons were not in uniform for pregame warmups at Neyland Stadium on Saturday morning, according to a report by 247Sports.

Jackson is the leading tackler for the Vols.

Defensive backs Doneiko Slaughter and Christian Charles were also in street clothes after getting banged up last week against Missouri.

This is a very important game for both Tennessee and South Carolina.