The Vols must watch out for Ohio’s playmakers
On Saturday, the Vols will face their last test before conference play gets underway. Although many Tennessee fans are looking past Ohio, if the team isn’t focused, the Bobcats have the tools to give them trouble.
COLUMBIA, MO - NOVEMBER 21, 2015 - quarterback Josh Dobbs #11 of the Tennessee Volunteers during the away game between the Missouri Tigers and the Tennessee Volunteers at Faurot Field. Photo By Donald Page/Tennessee Athletics
Last week, Tennessee started off slow against Virginia Tech in the Battle at Bristol. After allowing the Hokies to go up 14-0, though, the Vols finished strong and defeated Virginia Tech, 45-24. This week, Tennessee faces the Ohio Bobcats (1-1) in the Vols’ final non-conference game before SEC play begins.
Many believe that this game is a favorable matchup for Tennessee — the Vols are 28 point favorites. However, this game against Ohio could be a potential trap game. After this week, Tennessee will face the toughest part of its schedule with games against Florida, road trips against Georgia and Texas A&M and ending with a home showdown against Alabama. With that schedule in mind, Tennessee may look past the Bobcats this weekend. In order for the Vols to win, they need to stay focused on Ohio.
Ohio Defensive Front
To begin the 2016 season, Tennessee has been dreadful on the offensive line. Coleman Thomas has performed miserably and Drew Richmond hasn’t lived up to the hype yet. If improvements aren’t made, the line could be in for another long night. Ohio returned six of its front seven from 2015 and have performed well this season. In two games, Ohio has recorded seven sacks and has limited opposing offenses to just 2.3 yards per carry. The Bobcats have also only allowed 66 rushing yards per game. Although they haven’t face the toughest competition in 2016, the Bobcat’s front seven is still formidable enough to give the Vols’ offensive line trouble.
Quarterback
Ohio has a dangerous dual-threat quarterback in fifth-year senior Greg Windham. On the season, he has completed about 57 percent of his passes for 280 yards per game. Windham has also thrown five touchdowns and only one interception. He is capable at running the ball as well. He is averaging 91.5 yards per game and 7.6 yards per carry this season. Tennessee’s defense will face the difficult task of slowing down the dynamic quarterback. Keep an eye on Windham to lead a strong offense.
Running Back
Ohio is ranked No. 12 in the country in rushing offense — the Bobcats have gained 283 rushing yards per game so far this season. Greg Windham is joined in the backfield by three very talented running backs. Leading the charge is freshman Dorian Brown, who is averaging 93 yards per game. Complementing him are junior Maleek Brown and sophomore Papi White, who are each capable of providing a consistent rushing threat. Tennessee will be also without Darrin Kirkland Jr. and LaTroy Lewis, which could affect the rush defense of the Vols. If their replacements don’t step up, watch out for Ohio’s rushing attack.
Tennessee will face Ohio this Saturday on the SEC Network. Kickoff is scheduled for 12 p.m ET.
Edited by Adam Milliken
Featured image by Donald Page, courtesy of Tennessee Athletics
Sports writer for the Tennessee journalist and sophomore Business Analytics Major at UTK. Somehow finds time to balance writing for TNJN and being in the Pride of the Southland Marching Band. Follow him on Twitter @bwoody_72
