9. How good can the defensive line be?
There will be a very healthy mix of veteran experience and incoming talent on the defensive line – perhaps positioning this group to be one of the best that UT has seen in years. It starts with defensive end Derek Barnett, who moves into 2015 as an emerging star that opposing offenses will have to account for. Curt Maggitt, of course, can be a huge factor as a pass-rushing defensive end or an outside linebacker. But veterans such as Corey Vereen, Danny O’Brien, Owen Williams can’t be forgotten in the midst of the Vols bringing in maybe the best defensive line class in the nation. Defensive line coach Steve Stripling has proven to be one of the best position coaches on the staff, so there’s little doubt that he’ll be able to piece together a potent front line will maximize all of the talent and experience the Vols will have in 2015.
