Tennessee Outlasts Texas A&M, Defends Home Turf

The best-selling SEC game of the weekend was Texas A&M vs. Tennessee. The historic Neyland Stadium served as the backdrop for two historic programs that went to battle on Saturday afternoon. "Battle" is a choice word there, as the physicality and structure certainly felt like an SEC football game.

The Vols had their worst single-game passing output of head coach Josh Heupel's time at Tennessee. Quarterback Joe Milton III threw a costly interception in the third quarter that could have cost the Vols, and they still have wrinkles to work out. The running game was their saving grace, as running back Jaylen Wright continued his excellent season. Many assume that a Heupel offense must have a high-octane passing attack, but it's been the opposite through six games - Tennessee has found a winning nature through their run game and defense.

Defensive coordinator Tim Banks continues to bolster his resume this season. Beating Texas A&M legitimizes their defensive efforts in a way that hadn't previously been done. The Aggies have a skilled roster filled with former blue-chip talents - Tennessee held those weapons in check all afternoon.

These Vols aren't as explosive as their 2022 counterparts, but it's been interesting to see them change their identity and maintain success. Tennessee now sits at 5-1 with two conference wins before they travel to Tuscaloosa, Alabama, next weekend to face the Crimson Tide, which will be their toughest test to date.

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