Tennessee football’s defense probably didn’t need more motivation when Arkansas comes to town this Saturday, but it got it. Earlier this week, Razorbacks running back Mike Washington Jr. was asked about what stands out about the Vols’ defense. His response was a bit of a shot at UT.
“They have a great defense, but a lot of holes,” Washington said. “It’s going to be a lot of holes in their defense. It’s going to be a fun game.”
Well, this isn’t just something fans have heard. According to Voice of the Vols Mike Keith, who revealed this on ‘The Mike Keith Show‘, Tennessee’s defense has heard it.
“I’m told Vol defenders are aware of it,” Keith said. “Quote, unquote, they are aware of this comment.”
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Washington is in his first year with Arkansas after transferring in from New Mexico State. He has carried the ball 61 times this year for 393 yards and four touchdowns. In the only SEC game he’s played so far, at Ole Miss, he recorded 65 yards and two touchdowns on 13 attempts. He also caught two passes for 53 yards.
Defensively, Tennessee has taken a step back from a year ago. Particularly in the run game, the Vols are allowing 115.2 yards per game. This ranks 10th in the SEC and 39th in the country. Teams are also averaging 29 points per game against the Vols. This ranks 15th in the SEC and 102nd in the country.
Conversely, Arkansas’ 213.8 rushing yards per game ranks second in the conference, and its 37.4 points are fifth.
Kickoff is scheduled for 4:15 p.m. ET in Knoxville. The game will air on the SEC Network. Tennessee is looking to improve to 5-1 on the year and 2-1 in SEC play after splitting overtime games against Georgia and Mississippi State. Arkansas, on the other hand, is simply looking to keep its head above water after firing Sam Pittman.
