October 3rd vs. Arkansas
Daniel: Tennessee’s record against the SEC West has been abysmal in recent years, but I think the Vols might catch a slight break this year. Arkansas is on the rise and improving, no doubt. And that offensive line might be the best the Vols see not only this year, but maybe in the next few years. But I have several questions about the Razorbacks, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. I think this is a group that UT will be able to block with some consistency and can put up some points on. Offensively, though the Razorbacks have a stable of other options, losing running back Jonathan Williams certainly hurts. I think this will be a good game with both teams being able to do a lot of what they want offensively. I see this as another one-possession type of game, but with the Vols coming out on top in this one. Winner: Tennessee
Houston: I want to preface this pick by saying that I do not think that Arkansas is some type of juggernaut. I do, however, think that they are catching Tennessee at a good time in the season. The Vols will be riding high after beating Florida and I think that a touch of over-confidence could play into the outcome of this game. Arkansas can control the clock with their ground and pound attack, and a slow start by the Vols could allow Arkansas to play the exact type of game they want to play. I see a close game in which a late comeback by the Vols falls just short. Winner: Arkansas
Reed: I don’t like this matchup. Yes, Arkansas lost Jonathan Williams. Yes, they lost the bulk of their defensive line. But they still have Alex Collins and word around the program is there defensive front will still be deep and effective this season. They’re also one of the only teams on Tennessee’s schedule with a proven starter at quarterback. And, of course, they have the best offensive front in the nation – they might be the only team on the schedule that’ll have a chance to slow Barnett and Maggitt. This reminds me a bit of the Missouri game last year. Lots of people will pick Tennessee, but the Vols will probably struggle to control the line of scrimmage. Give me Big 10 Bret and the Razorbacks in a close, ugly game. Winner: Razorbacks
