Tennessee Athletics
Tennessee returns to Neyland Stadium this weekend aiming to get back in the win column as the Volunteers host UAB. It’s a matchup that offers Josh Heupel’s squad another opportunity to sharpen its identity before diving back into the heart of SEC play.
Tennessee’s Offense Taking Shape
The story of the 2025 Vols has been the steady hand of Joey Aguilar. The graduate transfer has quickly settled into his role as Tennessee’s starting quarterback, guiding an offense that looks more balanced with each passing week. Aguilar’s ability to spread the ball has unlocked weapons on the outside, especially Chris Brazzell II and freshman standout Mike Matthews, who are both emerging as reliable targets.
On the ground, Dylan Sampson continues to pace the backfield, but he isn’t carrying the load alone. DeSean Bishop and Star Thomas have given the Vols added depth, making it difficult for defenses to key in on just one runner. With multiple options, Heupel’s offense can stay aggressive in tempo and flexible in play-calling.
Defensive Disruption
While the offense has been efficient, Tennessee’s defense has stolen headlines through the first three weeks. Edge rusher Joshua Josephs has been relentless, leading the SEC in sacks (3.0) and forcing two fumbles. His presence has changed the way opponents protect their quarterback. Behind him, linebacker Arion Carter has been the tone-setter, racking up an SEC-best 27 tackles. Together, they’ve anchored a defense that thrives on creating havoc and flipping momentum.
The UAB Outlook
Across the field, UAB enters at 1-2 under Trent Dilfer, who is now in his third season at the helm. The Blazers are led by quarterback Jacob Zeno, a dual-threat option capable of keeping plays alive with his legs. Running back Jermaine Brown Jr. remains the focal point of the offense, giving UAB its most consistent playmaker.
Defensively, the Blazers have struggled to contain explosive offenses, and that will be their biggest challenge in Knoxville. Matching Tennessee’s pace and handling the Vols’ rotation of playmakers won’t come easy, especially in front of a raucous Neyland crowd.
Bottom Line
This game gives Tennessee the chance to fine-tune its execution and test its depth before the grind of the SEC takes full hold. If Aguilar and the offense continue to build rhythm while the defense keeps generating pressure, the Vols should control the game early. For UAB, staying competitive means finding ways to limit mistakes and producing chunk plays — a tall order against one of the SEC’s most disruptive defenses.
Expect Tennessee to lean on its balance, tempo, and home-field advantage to make this another long day for the Blazers.
About the Author
Dalton Tinklenberg is the Founder and Media Director of The Scouting Depot, where he leads comprehensive coverage of college and professional football. He is an active member of some of the most respected organizations in sports journalism, including the Football Writers Association of America (FWAA), Pro Football Writers of America (PFWA), Maxwell Football Club, Online News Association (ONA), National Football Foundation (NFF), and the Associated Press Sports Editors (APSE).
Before launching The Scouting Depot, Dalton worked with Blue HQ Media, where he covered major sporting events such as the Indianapolis 500, the College Football Playoff, and the Pro Football Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.
Through his professional affiliations and on-the-ground experience, Dalton combines deep knowledge of the game with recognized standards of storytelling, editorial excellence, and authenticity in sports coverage.
