Below is a look at Tennessee’s national stat rankings side-by-side with the counterpart rankings for the Kentucky Wildcats.
When the Vols have the ball
Where’s the opportunity?
Sigh. Passing game?
Where’s the danger?
It looks like it’s going to be difficult to run against these guys, and it looks like our third down conversion problems aren’t going to get any better this week. Basically, Kentucky may not be up to Georgia’s level on defense, but Tennessee’s offense is going to have its hands full again this weekend.
Gameplan for the Vols on offense
Do better. Don’t turn the ball over. Hope the defense can carry the day.
Vols on defense
Where’s the opportunity?
Okay, that’s better. The Vols appear to have a somewhat significant advantage on defense over Kentucky in most areas . . .
Where’s the danger?
. . . except in the run game and on third down. Also, Kentucky apparently doesn’t throw interceptions.
Gameplan for the Vols on defense
What I said against Georgia holds true in this game: 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
The Vols appear to have the advantage on special teams.
Turnovers and penalties
We’ve seen how much this can change in a week, so it’s hard to say whether either team has an actual advantage here. Just protect the ball and limit the penalties.