By Lily Helton
The Volunteers’ defense showed up for the game on Saturday, even if the offense did not. Finishing with six sacks, two takeaways, and ten TFLs, the promise of greatness was shown on defense.
“Definitely impressed by the way we’re playing,” said LEOs coach Andrew Jackson.
It seemed as though the Vols defense could never get off the field; despite that, they never let up. The team allowed Texas to convert only 3-of-12 first downs and held them to just 14 first downs. Five different defensive linemen are credited with the six sacks, showing just how much depth and versatility Jim Knowles has at his disposal.
“They don’t leave any stone unturned,” said Jackson. “So when they get out there, they’re super confident.”
Even with a stellar performance, the defense is ready to move on from this loss and make a statement against Auburn. Interestingly, Tigers head coach Alex Golesh is largely credited with Tennessee’s offensive success in the 2021-22 season. Tennessee’s defensive veterans say they feel prepared after reviewing the tape and recognize many of the play calls from years ago.
“When I started watching film on them, I was like, these are plays we’ve seen,” said defensive lineman Carson Gentle. “I remember from two years ago.”
In practice this week, emphasis is on quarterback containment, playing with a high tempo, and creating takeaways in the secondary. The defensive linemen have seen a lot of QB draws and screen passes on film, both of which quarterback Faizon Brandon is helping demonstrate in practice.
“Just taking the right angles and not letting him escape out of the pocket,” said edge rusher Tyrese Weathersby. “Definitely something we do every day.”
The defense will have another difficult test against former Volunteer Golesh in Neyland Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 3, at 3:30 p.m. EST. Tennessee fans will be eager to see continued defensive domination against a challenging SEC opponent.
“Last week was last week, but this is a new challenge,” said Jackson.