Things have changed since I ranked SEC football teams for 2024 way back in January. Those changes are reflected in my ranking of Tennessee opponents according to degree of difficulty.
1. Georgia: The Bulldogs have become what Alabama once was. They can lose some of their best players and replace him with even better players.
Nonetheless, I don’t expect to see a tight end with Brock Bowers’ skill set for another 20 years or so.
2. Oklahoma: For some reasons, its starting offensive linemen couldn’t get out of Sooner Land fast enough. They leaped into the transfer portal on the group plan.
None of those transfers will be missed as much as quarterback Dillon Gabriel, who will sling the football around on behalf of Oregon in 2024.
Despite the attrition – including a Heisman Trophy candidate at quarterback – Oklahoma will return considerable talent, and you surely can remember how the Vols performed on the road last season.
3. Alabama: I can’t remember ranking the Tide so low as a Tennessee opponent. And that’s not just because coach Nick Saban has departed.
The Tide lost an All-American in defensive back Caleb Downs, who transferred to Ohio State. Also, aside from dual-threat quarterback Jalen Milroe, who in Alabama’s offense will terrify opposing defenses?
4. NC State: Critics who say I’m too pro-SEC should take note. I’m predicting the Wolfpack will present a greater challenge to the Vols than five of their SEC opponents.
Neyland Stadium won’t have UT’s back on the game in Charlotte. Also, the Wolfpack’s offense should experience an upgrade with Coastal Carolina transfer Grayson McCall at quarterback.