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5. The defensive line showed flashes of greatness
The Vols took a step back in the sack category this year, but a lot of that can be explained away by losing Curt Maggitt’s productivity after just two games from the fifth-year senior. So while the numbers weren’t as flashy, some of the potential shown was. Derek Barnett continues to play at an All-SEC level and Pro Football Focus recently ranked him as the No. 2 edge defender in all of college football based on its grades.
Inside, the immediate impact from Shy Tuttle and Kahlil McKenzie maybe wasn’t felt as much as some anticipated, but those two showed flashes of brilliance – especially Tuttle when healthy. Virtually everybody is back next year, there’s at least a chance Maggitt could return for a sixth year and the Vols should be healthier and more experienced in 2016. This defensive front played well, but next year’s could truly be among the best in the nation.
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