Offensive Line
Easily the most improved unit from 2014, the offensive line turned in a much better performance in 2015 than they did last season. The Vols gave up a conference-worst 43 sacks in 2014 and was easily the most maligned group on the team then. This year, however, the offensive line cut that number down to 24 sacks allowed, jumping all the way up to 6th in the SEC. The unit is also responsible for the Vols turning in their best team rushing effort since 1951, as the Vols amassed 2,908 rushing yards on the year and scored 32 rushing touchdowns. For reference, the Vols had 43 rushing touchdowns combined in the three years Derek Dooley was head coach.
The offensive line still had its hiccups, of course. But overall 2015 was a much, much better year for this group. And the players who looked the best at times were some of the younger linemen in the group. So as good as the 2015 offensive line was, next year’s could be even better.
Final Grades:
Daniel: B+
Nathanael: B+
Stephen: B+
Average Grade: B+
