Running Backs
Nathanael: C-
I would’ve been more lenient on this group and probably gone with a C+ or maybe even a B-, but for the second-straight week, a Tennessee running back fumbled the ball late in the game with a chance to take a commanding two-score lead. Tim Jordan gave the ball away to Missouri, and he’s lucky Tennessee’s defense was able to hold the Tigers’ offense to a field goal rather than a game-tying touchdown. That was really the only major negative from this group, as Jordan totaled 74 yards and 5.3 yards a carry while Ty Chandler had 23 yards and 4.6 yards a carry. Eric Gray didn’t get too involved, but he had a good eight-yard reception for a first down. All in all, though, the RBs still struggled with consistency.
Ben: C-
Outside of Tim Jordan, Tennessee’s running back didn’t have all that great of day. And even Jordan, who rushed for a team-high 74 yards and 5.3 yards per carry, fumbled the ball. Ty Chandler rushed for 23 yards on five carries, while Eric Gray rushed for five yards on two carries. Part of the running backs’ struggles had to do with Tennessee throwing the football 41 times and Missouri’s defensive line having a strong night, but it wasn’t a great night for the backs.
