Vols vs. Tigers preview

This weekend, Team 118 welcomes the Missouri Tigers for their final game of the 2014 season in Neyland Stadium. Sitting currently at a 5-5 record, the Vols hope to grab a win on Saturday that would make them bowl eligible for the first time since 2010.

Outside of bowl eligibility, a win this weekend could show the team’s mental strength after a tough week centered around the suspension of senior star linebacker AJ Johnson and sophomore cornerback Michael Williams. When media has been focused on the allegations brought against these players, the team has been hard at work preparing for an 8-2 Tiger team.

The Vols have found their identity in the SEC’s Cinderella story, Josh Dobbs. At quarterback Dobbs brings confidence and poise that will be needed against a Mizzou team known for their strong defense. Offensively, the Vols must make plays both through the air and on the ground. With positive yardage both ways, it will be tough for the Tiger defense to hold the Vols in the backfield.

Defensively, Tennessee must put the events dealing with Johnson and Williams behind them and focus on stepping into their roles on this side of the ball. Leadership must come from redshirt junior linebacker Curt Maggitt and defensive back phenom Cam Sutton. With successful defensive play, the Vols have a great chance of beating this Missouri team.

Edited by Will Lomas