Secondary
Nathanael: C-
The only part of the game that I thought was somewhat lacking for the Vols on Saturday was their secondary. That 75-yard touchdown to start the game was the biggest gaffe, and it happened because of a miscommunication. After that play, though, the Vols’ defensive backs did play better, but they were still beat several times and allowed some big plays. Against the run, however, UT’s safeties and STAR backs were solid. Nigel Warrior had a great game stopping the run, and Jaylen McCollough played well in spots, as did Shawn Shamburger and Alontae Taylor.
Ben: C+
After the miscommunication on the first play of the game that resulted in a 75-yard touchdown pass for South Carolina, Tennessee’s secondary settled in and played better. From that point on, Ryan Hilinski threw for 244 yards and completed just 54 percent of his passes. Nigel Warrior was strong against the run, totaling 10 tackles, as was Jaylen McCollough who tallied five. Shawn Shamburger had two pass breakups, while Bryce Thompson had one.
