Looking beyond the W-L record, the Vols’ national stat rankings show some welcome progress in rushing offense and sacks allowed, and the defense got better but not as much as you might think. Here’s a closer look.
Offense
Climbed out of the Bottom 30: Rushing offense, sacks allowed
Fell out of the Top 30: 3rd down conversion percentage, red zone offense, passing offense.
Defense
Climbed out of the Bottom 30: Rushing defense
Nearly everything here is better, but most not nearly as much as you’d think. Still major problems on third down.
Special Teams
This is still mostly garbage at this point, but punting remains a strength. Kickoff returns took a hit this week.
Turnovers and Penalties
This table is sorted first by category and then by the BYU column, but you can’t tell because Tennessee is currently good at not committing penalties but bad at turnovers.