Massive concern arises for Tennessee Vols on Saturday
When I made my season predictions for the Tennessee Vols during a recording of The Big Orange Podcast earlier this week, I picked Josh Heupel's squad to beat the Florida Gators on September 24. But after watching Florida beat Utah on Saturday night, I'm not so sure anymore. The Gators didn't necessarily look dominant against […]
When I made my season predictions for the Tennessee Vols during a recording of The Big Orange Podcast earlier this week, I picked Josh Heupel's squad to beat the Florida Gators on September 24.
But after watching Florida beat Utah on Saturday night, I'm not so sure anymore.
The Gators didn't necessarily look dominant against a Utah team that might be overrated, but they looked a lot better than I expected.
Specifically, Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson looked better than I expected.
Richardson looked like the type of quarterback that typically gives the Vols a fit.
The former four-star recruit completed 17-of-24 passes for 168 yards and zero passing touchdowns.
Where he really hurt Utah was with his legs.
Richardson rushed for 106 yards and three touchdowns on 11 carries.
How many times have Vols fans seen a fast Florida quarterback slice up the Tennessee defense?
It seems like every year, right?
This is going to be an extremely tough matchup for the Vols. Their best approach would be to make Richardson beat them with his arm. That means Tennessee's front four will have to generate more pressure than what we saw in the season-opener against Ball State. The Vols can't afford to blitz and then watch Richardson step up into the pocket and take off down the field.
Using a linebacker to "spy" Richardson will be a must for the Vols.
If Tennessee can contain Richardson using a spy, along with the front four getting pressure and the secondary keeping everything in front of them, then Tennessee will be fine. But if they fail in any of those three areas, then it could be a long night for the Vols.
Tennessee has the more explosive offense. And Vols quarterback Hendon Hooker will be able to do some damage with his legs, too. This isn't a game that I suddenly think is an automatic loss for UT, but it's certainly a game that got a lot more interesting after watching Richardson go to work against Utah.
Featured image via Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports
