Below is a look at Tennessee’s national stat rankings side-by-side with the counterpart rankings for the Georgia Bulldogs. Details below.
When the Vols have the ball
Where’s the opportunity?
Um . . . doing better against their defense than they do against ours? Expect things to look bad on offense for the Vols and know that it’s not us, it’s them. Hope Jarrett Guarantano continues to keep the ball safe from interceptions against a team much more likely to get one. Celebrate any and all successes, and when Tennessee does get into the red zone, hope they score.
Where’s the danger?
The danger is everywhere with these guys: first down, third down, in every facet of the defense. I would like to see how our rushing offense impacts their rushing defense numbers; maybe that’s not as dangerous as it seems.
Gameplan for the Vols on offense
Protect the ball. Try to establish the run. Play-action pass. When you get in the red zone, get in the end zone.
Vols on defense
Where’s the opportunity?
Most everywhere. These numbers suggest we can get these guys off schedule and then play them straight up the rest of the series.
Where’s the danger?
There are a couple of important areas where this looks like an even matchup, most importantly third down.
Gameplan for the Vols on defense
Win first down. Get them off schedule to get an advantage on third down and then win third down. Any turnover in our favor will be really, really valuable.
Special teams
This looks pretty even, although Georgia appears to have an advantage in the punting game. Big opportunity for the Vols’ punter.
Turnovers and penalties
There appear to be a lot of hidden yards for the Vols here, provided they continue to be disciplined and Georgia continues to do what it’s been doing. And Tennessee has shown through two games that it is not inclined to give the ball away. The Vols must continue that trend Saturday.