Special Teams
Nathanael: B
Brent Cimaglia was automatic once again, and he continues to be a big bright spot for the Vols this season. Marquez Callaway gave UT’s offense a good start when he returned a punt 22 yards to give the Vols the ball at their own 34 rather than the 12 (that was the drive that ended in the Guarantano fumble at the goal line). Other than those plays and one decent punt, Tennessee didn’t do much on special teams, though. For some reason, Joe Doyle and Paxton Brooks have taken a step back the last few weeks and haven’t been punting or kicking off well. It wasn’t a huge issue in the game, but it affected some things.
Ben: B
Tennessee’s punters were disappointing on Saturday night. Joe Doyle averaged 39.0 yards on three punts, and Paxton Brooks averaged 33.0 yards on two punts. On the flip side, Brent Cimaglia was terrific once again. He made both of his kicks in difficult conditions, connecting from 37 and 32 yards out, respectively.
The kick returns weren’t pretty, but Marquez Callaway did have an impressive 22-yard punt return.
