Tennessee football has rewritten the record book in its win over ETSU on Saturday. The Vols’ massive point total in the 72-17 win over the in-state, FCS foe was the program’s modern-era (1937-present) record, according to UT Athletics. This topped the 71 points Tennessee put up on Kent State just a year ago.
On top of this, UT broke the program’s modern-era record for first downs in a game at 41. The previous top mark was 36 in the win over Chattanooga last season. With 25 of these coming through the air, it was another record.
The Vols’ overall attack through the air also came just short of sitting solo in the record book. The 38 completed passes in the game were good for a tie. That’s now four games in the school’s history that have reached that mark.
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Tennessee’s offense was spearheaded by a strong game from quarterback Joey Aguilar in his debut. He produced 288 passing yards and a pair of touchdowns on 23-of-31 completions. Behind him, Jake Merklinger notched 118 yards on 9-of-14 passing with two scores. George MacIntyre chipped in 52 yards on 6-of-7 passing.
On the ground, Star Thomas ran wild. He accounted for 69 rushing yards and three touchdowns on 12 attempts. DeSean Bishop put up 68 yards on three carries, as well. Other rushing scores went to sophomore Peyton Lewis and freshman Daune Morris.
In the air, Mike Matthews and Chris Brazzell II had terrific days. Matthews caught six passes for 111 yards and a 53-yard touchdown. Brazzell managed 125 yards and a pair of touchdowns on nine receptions. Other contributors featured Braylon Staley’s five catches for 39 yards, Miles Kitselman’s three catches for 36 yards and Radarious Jackson’s three catches for 35 yards.
Boo Carter also did a great job of setting up the offense. On four returns, he totalled 94 yards. This included a 40-yard tote that was cut short of the end zone by just five yards after the punter got him by a finger tip.
