After Saturday, it looks like Tennessee is making a strong push for the NCAA Tournament.

The Vols completed a season sweep by taking down Vanderbilt for the second time this year, 69-50. The Vols dominated the Commodores 76-63 on Jan. 20 in Nashville.

Strong inside defense by Wayne Chism, Brian Williams and Emmanuel Negedu limited A.J. Ogilvy to only 11 points and three rebounds.

Tyler Smith led all scorers with a career high 30 points, breaking his previous mark of 28 points as a freshman at Iowa. He was highly efficient going 10-for-13 from the field, including 3-of-4 on 3-point field goals. He also went 7-for-8 from the free throw line.

"It was good to see (Tyler Smith) play with good energy and efficiency." - Bruce Pearl

"Tyler has bounced back well," said Coach Pearl. "He was suffering from the flu against Georgia. It was good to see him play with good energy and efficiency.

"This is a good step to go in the direction we want to go in," Pearl continued.

The SEC East race has turned into a tight one as the season heads into its final weeks. Tennessee, Kentucky and South Carolina are tied atop the division with a conference record of 7-3. Florida's 88-86 loss Saturday at Georgia dropped the Gators a game back. 

"This is a good step to go in the direction we want to go in." - Bruce Pearl

The Vols will have to continue their solid play during an upcoming stretch of road contests, with remaining games at Ole Miss, Kentucky, Florida and South Carolina. UT hosts Mississippi State and Alabama in its only remaining home games.

Consistency on offense and defense will be needed to make a run to the tournament.

Playing Tyler Smith even more than usual could help produce better offensive productivity, while getting Chism involved early and often in the paint is also a key.

One thing has been obvious all season and still is obvious: Smith and Chism will have to step up and carry this team the rest of the way.