Linebackers
Down to its fourth-string outside linebacker and its backup inside, this is clearly a tough position to evaluate. Colton Jumper, who was a liability at times when he started the 2015 season, has stepped up to became more than just serviceable. He’s played well for much of the 2016 season in place of Darrin Kirkland Jr. Outside linebacker has been an adventure with Jalen Reeves-Maybin, Quart’e Sapp and Cortez McDowell all spending time on the shelf. Elliott Berry, Dillon Bates and others have battled when called upon, but UT’s been overmatched at that spot in recent weeks. Look for Jumper and Kirkland, who could return next week, to be the top two guys going forward as the Vols look to get their best pair on the field.
Daniel: C
Nathanael: C
