Linebackers
Considering the adversity this group went through, it’s tough to say too much about the job they did. Already without Darrin Kirkland Jr. and reserve Quart’e Sapp, the linebackers were also missing Jalen Reeves-Maybin for a majority of the game as he battled through an injury. That meant emptying the bench at times. Colton Jumper, who has really progressed and led the team with eight stops, got virtually all the reps at one spot, but Cortez McDowell, Kenny Bynum, Gavin Bryant, Dillon Bates and Daniel Bituli all filled in at the others. Almost every available scholarship player at the position helped out. The Vols held the Gators to 3.4 ypc and no runs longer than 12 yards. Especially considering what the group was missing, it’s hard to ask for much more.
Daniel: A
Nathanael: B+
Stephen: B+
