Linebackers
Nathanael: B+
Tennessee’s linebackers were left to clean up the mess the defensive line couldn’t handle, and they did a superb job of it. While the unit didn’t total a sack, one linebacker got a tackle for loss (Henry To’oto’o), and three different linebackers picked up quarterback hurries (Deandre Johnson, Daniel Biutli, and J.J. Peterson). Quavaris Crouch broke up another pass and totaled three tackles, and both Bituli and To’oto’o also broke up passes. Sophomore Jeremy Banks picked off two passes, which now gives him the team lead for the season in that category. Shanon Reid led the team in tackles with seven, and Roman Harrison got to play more and made four tackles as a result.
Ben: B
While the defensive line struggled to generate pressure, Tennessee’s linebackers caused many problems for the Mocs. Daniel Bituli, Deandre Johnson, and J.J. Peterson all recorded pressures, and the group spent plenty of time in the backfield. Henry To’oto’o added a tackle for a loss, and Darrell Taylor forced a fumble. Led by Jeremy Banks’ two interceptions, the group was also good in coverage. 151 rushing yards is too much to give up to an FCS team, however.
