Special Teams
Nathanael: A+
Tennessee’s special teams were a big difference-maker on Thursday. Aside from some poor punting from Paxton Brooks, UT’s special teams performed exceptionally well. Brent Cimaglia kept the Vols in the game with his field goals, making all three of them. Brooks and Eric Gray pulled off arguably the play of the game with their onside kick attempt, and Ty Chandler ripped off a big 47-yard kick-off return to set up UT with good field position (that they ultimately didn’t take advantage of, though).
Ben: A
Paxton Brooks only averaged 37.8 yards per punt, but he made up for it with perfect execution on the onside kick that Gray recovered to set Tennessee up to win the football game. Brent Cimaglia was a perfect 3-for-3 on the night, making field goals from 23, 32, and 43 yards out. Ty Chandler chipped in a 47-yard kick return.
