The Texas Longhorns are headed to Neyland Stadium to take on the Tennessee Volunteers this weekend, and this is one of the most compelling matchups on the college football slate. Texas, Tennessee, Arch Manning under the lights in Knoxville. It doesn’t get much better than that.

Now, this is such a fascinating test for both teams. This is the first matchup the Volunteers have had all season where I would argue Texas has the better overall roster. The Longhorns have the speed and physicality to not only match up with Tennessee but exceed it. And that’s a problem for a Tennessee team playing at home and looking to prove it belongs in the upper tier of the SEC.

Tennessee’s offensive line holds the key

The No. 1 question for Tennessee if they want to pull off what would be an upset (yes, even at home) is this: how far along has Faizon Brandon progressed and matured? The interior of Tennessee’s offensive line may be at a disadvantage compared to what Texas brings, and that’s where this game could be won or lost.

If Josh Heupel can scheme up a good enough rushing attack and keep as much responsibility off Brandon without hindering the offense, the Volunteers have a chance. Because I still think there are enough inconsistencies within Arch Manning’s game that will keep opponents in it if they have a strong enough game plan on the opposite side of the football.

And by all means, I think we get a competitive game here. Texas and Steve Sarkisian have gone on the road and struggled before, especially during conference play. That’s not some secret. Neyland is one of the most hostile environments in the entire country, and Tennessee’s crowd will be a factor.

Texas is still the pick I’m willing to go with

But even with that in mind, I still think this Tennessee team is just a year away. They’ve missed some key pieces. I think Texas makes enough plays on the ground where we see a victory on the road, which would be a really impressive win for Sarkisian’s group.

I’m all for a huge upset here. I would be so happy to see Tennessee pull it off. I just don’t think it’s going to happen. Give me a Texas win, and it’s still going to be relatively close in the second half. In the battle of the real UT, the Longhorns leave Knoxville with a hard-fought road victory.