Defensive Line
Nathanael: B+
Rarely did Charlotte’s rushing attack find large gaps to run through, and the defensive line was able to generate pressure and disruption in the passing game too. Kyle Phillips continues to have a strong finish to his Tennessee career, and Saturday was one of his better games. He batted down two passes, got two tackles for loss, made a sack that was almost a safety, and totaled four tackles. Shy Tuttle had four tackles, and Alexis Johnson had three tackles. Freshman John Mincey picked up his first sack of his collegiate career, and Emmit Gooden picked up a TFL.
Ben: B
Tennessee’s defensive line was solid on Saturday. The Vols didn’t make a ton of flashy plays, but they did generate some pressure and filled the run-gaps much cleaner after an abysmal performance against South Carolina last week. Kyle Phillips continues to be the most productive member along the D-line. Phillips had two pass-breakups and two tackles for a loss against the 49ers.
