6. The Vols will break both losing streaks
There are two losing streaks that every Vol fan wants to see broken this year: Florida and Alabama. The last time Tennessee beat the Gators was in a thrilling contest inside of Neyland Stadium in 2004 when James Wilhoit kicked a miracle 50 yard field goal. Ever since, the Gators have won 11 consecutive years, which has led Florida to become, arguably, every Vol fan’s worst enemy. The Vols looked to have control in the last two games against the Gators, but slipped up late in the fourth quarter. Florida lost some veteran players due to graduation or the NFL draft after the 2015 season, so there are some questions around the whole team. The Gators’ defense looks to still have the talent, but their offense might be a big question. With Jim McElwain at the helm though, he could work some magic with an offense that’s not expected to do a whole lot. The Vols, however, finally have more talent and depth than the Gators this year. In addition, the game will be early in the season and in Knoxville. Neyland Stadium and players will be fired up for this one. Look for the Vols to finally break the 11 game losing streak, and probably in convincing fashion. Jalen “Teez” Tabor won’t be talking after this one.
Then comes Alabama a few weeks later. When Nick Saban took over in 2007, the Crimson Tide became a wrecking machine almost over night. It took him just three years to lead Alabama to its first national championship victory since 1992. In Saban’s nine years at Alabama, he has won four national championships. The Tennessee-Alabama rivalry is one of the most storied rivalries in college football. However, that hasn’t been exactly the case recently, as the Vols have lost nine games in a row.
Tennessee finally has enough depth and talent to match up with Alabama, and it showed in last year’s game as the Vols were leading the Tide late in the fourth quarter. This year will finally be the season the Vols can end this streak and make their mark in the college football world.
