Below is a look at Tennessee’s national stat rankings side-by-side with the counterpart rankings for the Alabama Crimson Tide.
When the Vols have the ball
Where’s the opportunity?
Running the ball.
Where’s the danger?
Passing the ball, protecting the quarterback, first downs, third downs.
Gameplan for the Vols on offense
Run the ball. Pass enough to avoid becoming one dimensional and hope that the Heuper Drive is finally fixed.
Vols on defense
Where’s the opportunity?
SACK THE QUARTERBACK! Tennessee should be able to make the most of getting into Alabama’s backfield and either sacking the quarterback or tackling the ball carrier behind the line of scrimmage, creating negative plays and putting the offense behind the chains. The numbers also make it look like the Vols defense should be in good shape against the Alabama offense in almost every category. They should be good against the run and the pass and good on first downs, third downs, and fourth downs.
Where’s the danger?
The red zone.
Gameplan for the Vols on defense
Do their thing. Rack up the negative plays and make everybody on offense uncomfortable. Play solid defense both on the ground and through the air. Stop them early so they don’t get to the red zone and don’t let them have big chunk plays.
Special teams
Where’s the opportunity?
Not only is Tennessee good at returning punts, Alabama is not good at defending them. Points may be at a premium in this one, and getting a special teams score could again make a huge difference.
Where’s the danger?
Alabama’s kick returns. Net punting and field position favor Alabama.
Turnovers and penalties
Give Alabama an edge in turnovers and penalties.