OFFENSE DEFENSE

The Tennessee offense could not have been much more productive last season. Most of the firepower returns, but there are two critical pieces missing: quarterback Hendon Hooker and offensive coordinator Alex Golesh. Quarterbacks coach Joey Halzle has been promoted to OC, and Joe Milton III has another shot at being the man in Knoxville. The leadership change shouldn’t disrupt much, but you never really know. Milton has the strongest arm on the planet, but can be erratic. However, he proved his worth in the Orange Bowl, so the offense shouldn’t slip much. The line will probably be a bit better, the running backs are elite and Bru McCoy, Ramel Keyton and Squirrel White are dynamic playmakers. John Campbell Jr., a transfer from Miami, fills the only hole on the line. Dont’e Thornton (Oregon) adds another weapon at receiver.

As unworldly as the offense was last season, let’s not dismiss how well the defense performed. Opponents averaged 3.3 yards a carry, were 34.2 percent on third down and scored just 22.8 per game. The Vols totaled 31 sacks and forced 22 turnovers. Tennessee led the SEC with 94 tackles behind the line. Omari Thomas and Bryson Eason are difficult to move in the middle. Roman Harrison must now step up to compensate for the production gone from last season. Top tackler Aaron Beasley returns, and he’s joined at linebacker by Keenan Pili from BYU, a veteran of 34 games over four seasons. The secondary is the only question mark on this side of the ball, but there is no lack of talent, just proven experience. Jaylen McCollough and Tamarion McDonald are tough safeties, especially against the run. The corners bear watching early.