Secondary
Nathanael: C
Though the stat sheet looks really good for UT’s secondary, their actual play on the field left a lot to be desired against a much less talented opponent. The Mocs’ receivers got open far too often, but Tennessee got bailed out time and time again by dropped passes or poor throws by the quarterback. Nigel Warrior finally made his presence felt, picking off his first pass since 2017 and nearly returning it for a touchdown. True freshman Kenney Solomon made a very impressive interception late in the fourth quarter to preserve the shutout, and Kenneth George Jr. broke up two passes. Tyus Fields flashed late, but that was once UTC had backups in as well.
Ben: B
The stats look good, but they’re a little deceiving. Tennessee only allowed UTC to throw for 76 yards, but the Mocs’ wide receivers beat the Vols’ secondary quite a bit and either didn’t haul in the pass or the quarterback misfired. But Nigel Warrior made a nice play in coverage to record his second career interception, and freshman Kenny Solomon had an impressive pick in his debut.
