October 11th – Chattanooga
Daniel: As a former writer and editor for a news outlet based in Chattanooga, I heard a lot about the Mocs having one of their best seasons in schools history in 2013. Coach Russ Huesman is doing a great job and don’t expect the Mocs, who are led by his son, quarterback Jacob Huesman, to go quietly. They battled Central Michigan, an FBS foe, for four quarters in their opener on Thursday. Still, Tennessee isn’t CMU and has too much talent for this one to be close. The Mocs might get a score or two in, but UT will get back in the win column comfortably this week. Winner: Volunteers
Houston: This game shouldn’t be close. The Vol offense should score points in bunches and fans can expect to see a lot of freshmen and newcomers gain valuable repetitions that will pay dividends over the remainder of the season. It may take the Vols a quarter or two to get rolling seeing as how the atmosphere for this one is likely going to be less than electric, but Tennessee’s talent advantage will be too much for UTC. Winner: Vols
Reed: The Vols should enter this one on a three game losing streak and a matchup with an FCS foe will be just what the doctor ordered. The Vols have never lost to an FCS team and that’s not changing this year – Chattanooga is no slouch, but they don’t have the horses to hang with Tennessee. In 1958, Tennessee suffered one of the worst losses in program history when UTC left Knoxville with a 14-6 victory. To make matters worse, UTC fans tore down Tennessee’s goalposts and a riot ensued. The Vols will get revenge this season and claw their way back to 3-3. If whoever is starting at QB has struggled headed into this one, look for UT to potentially make a change here. Winner: Volunteers
