Tennessee @ No. 4 Oklahoma

The Volunteers and Sooners will meet Saturday night under the lights, and I think the Vols will surprise some people here. The betting line is giving Tennessee 20.5 points, and I think Butch Jones’ group is able to keep this game close.

Tennessee’s Defense

While this defense is inexperienced in areas, they will be able to force Trevor Knight into some mistakes in this one. In week one, the Vols were able to hold Utah State to seven points, and silenced any Heisman whispers about quarterback Chuckie Keeton.

The Volunteers forced Keeton into two interceptions and held him to only 144 yards passing, so this defense is capable of making plays. The unit is led by All-SEC caliber linebacker A.J. Johnson and will be able to come up with some important stops on Saturday night.

Are We Completely Sold on Trevor Knight Yet?

Knight performed really well against Alabama in the Sugar Bowl, but I’m still not sold on him at this point. In 2013, he threw three interceptions at home, and he wasn’t the starter the entire season either. He performed well on the big stage last season against the Tide, but his inconsistent play makes you wonder which player we will see Saturday night. He totaled 9 touchdowns and 5 interceptions in the  regular season a year ago.

Oklahoma QB Trevor Knight (Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports)

Tennessee Has Some Young Playmakers

The quarterback position has been a question the last few seasons for Tennessee, but the experience could finally be paying off for senior Justin Worley. He has a 64.5 completion percentage through the season’s first two games, but the skill players are the ones to watch here.

On the outside, the Vols have some exciting young talent, including Marquez North and Josh Malone.  Marlin Lane is the top returner at running back, but freshman Jalen Hurd has been impressive through the first two games.

For Tennessee to keep this game close, Worley will have to play a mistake-free game, and the playmakers on the outside will have to step up in a tough environment.

Tennessee RB Marlin Lane

Conclusion

I really like this Tennessee team moving forward, and while they may be a year or two away from being a national contender, they are capable of keeping this game close and surprising the national audience.

The Vols will be able to force Knight into some mistakes Saturday, and the offense will do enough to stay in the game. The line is giving Tennessee 20.5 points, and I like them to cover the spread here. They are capable of pulling off the upset, but it will take a solid game from Worley and good penetration from Tennessee’s defensive line.

Prediction: Oklahoma 36, Tennessee 27