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The Tennesse Volunteers took care of business against FCS opponent Austin Peay on Satruday with a 30-13 win. However, the final score is not indicative of how tough the Governors played the No. 9 Volunteers.
At the half, the Vols were only up 13-6 and struggled to get anything going on offense. Joe Milton misfired on several throws and receivers dropped catchable balls all night. There were also quite a few questionable calls by the officials, which were referenced after the game.
Heupel chose not to stir anything up when asked about the officiating, saying it would be best for him to “not say anything publicly.”
#Vols coach Josh Heupel took the diplomatic route when asked about officiating this evening, particularly on some of those holding plays on the perimeter.
Said it was just better that he not say anything publicly.
— Wes Rucker (@wesrucker247) September 10, 2023
Milton’s final stat line does not look too bad, as the QB completed 21/33 for 228 yards and 2 TDs. Against an SEC opponent, this would be seen as a fine stat line. However, against an FCS opponent, much more was expected.
Much of the passes Milton threw were simple screens or bubble routes with Heupel admitting the deep shots “weren’t there tonight.”
Josh Heupel said deep shots down the field weren’t there tonight, but there were things open over the middle of the field that they need to hit on.
Said some of it was the throw, some of it was dropping the football and some of it was the protection.
— Ben McKee (@benmckee14) September 10, 2023
The Governors got to Milton for one sack and collected several tackles for loss. It’s clear the Tennessee passing attack has much to work on before SEC play gets started.
Unfortunately for the Vols, SEC play starts next weekend. The Vols travel to Gainesville, a place where the team has not won since 2003. Heupel knows what’s ahead and admits the team “needs to play better.”
#Vols coach Josh Heupel: We’re playing a better opponent next week. We all know we need to play better.
— Wes Rucker (@wesrucker247) September 10, 2023
The Vols will head into Gainesville with a 2-0 record.
Bryce Lazenby covers college football for Saturday Down South. A Nashville native, his previous stops include FanSided, Dimers, and The Leaf-Chronicle.
