Arguably the biggest moment in Tennessee’s 20-13 win over Texas A&M Saturday in Neyland Stadium was Dee Williams’ 39-yard punt return for a touchdown in the third quarter.
Williams’ touchdown gave Tennessee a 14-10 lead in what had been a defensive struggle for both sides. The score proved to be extremely vital, as the Vols defense allowed only three points in the remainder of the game while Tennessee’s offense didn’t get much going either, scoring six points.
Watch Williams’ first punt return TD of the season and second of his Tennessee career below.
DEE WILLIAMS IS ELECTRIC ⚡️
📺 CBS
📲 https://t.co/mfQ8Mo0y1a pic.twitter.com/CWYHp1uDsS— Tennessee Football (@Vol_Football) October 14, 2023
In addition to Williams scoring, he somewhat set himself up to do so, as well. On the drive prior, Jackson Ross’ 49-yard punt was downed at the one-yard line by Williams. Texas A&M went three-and-out and gained no yards, so the Aggies had to punt it from deep in the end zone, which gave Williams a better chance at making a big play.
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While this was Williams’ first touchdown of the season, he has been a highly efficient returner all year. Coming into the Texas A&M game, Williams had returned nine punts for 151 yards with a 16.78 yards per return average, which ranked third in the SEC.
Williams has also taken over kickoff return duties this year. Entering this week, he had returned five kickoffs for 109 yards with a 21.8 yards per return average.
Williams’ touchdown marked the second of his Tennessee career, as the senior returned a punt for a touchdown last year against Vanderbilt.
