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Tennessee provides 2nd half injury updates for Dont’e Thornton, Peyton Lewis
By Ethan Stone
Published:
Tennessee football announced just after the conclusion of halftime that standout receiver Dont’e Thornton and backup running back Peyton Lewis will not return to today’s contest.
Both Lewis and Thornton are out with injuries designated as “upper-body related.”
#Vols receiver Dont’e Thornton Jr. and Peyton Lewis have been ruled out for the remainder of the game due to upper-body injuries.
— Ben McKee (@benmckee14) November 30, 2024
That’s a less-than-ideal development for Tennessee, which has posted a strong comeback after trailing 14-0 early against their in-state rivals. Partly because Thornton was a big, big part of that comeback.
Thronton finished his day with 2 receptions for 114 yards and 2 touchdowns, real Randy Moss numbers in the biggest spot possible for Tennessee. He hauled in a 28-yard score before taking a perfect Nico Iamaleava pass over the middle the distance for 86 yards.
Lewis hadn’t posted any stats in this game, totaling 2 carries for zero yards. His contributions were almost solely in pass protection, where he held up well. Lewis has been the backup for Dylan Sampson while DeSean Bishop sat out with injury. But now that Bishop is back, his loss isn’t as felt by Tennessee in this 2nd half.
The Vols have started the 2nd half well despite these developments. Receiver Mike Matthew filled in for Thornton, hauling in a touchdown pass to make the score 31-17.
Tennessee is likely 2 quarters and a held lead away from a College Football Playoff berth. Let’s see if they can hold off the Commodores.
Ethan Stone is a Tennessee graduate and loves all things college football and college basketball. Firm believer in fouling while up 3.
