College Football: Preview, Prediction for Alabama-Tennessee
By Lee Wardlaw
Jan 2, 2015; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Tennessee Volunteers running back Jalen Hurd (1) stiff arms Iowa Hawkeyes defensive back Jordan Lomax (27) in the first quarter of their 2015 TaxSlayer Bowl at EverBank Field. Mandatory Credit: Phil Sears-USA TODAY Sports
Tennessee: Offense
Just like Alabama, Tennessee’s strength on offense is on the ground. And rather than ‘Bama, they don’t rely on their main man to do all of the heavy lifting.
The attack consists of three athletes, including the main carrier Jalen Hurd. Hurd has rushed for 572 yards on the ground. Next is dual-threat quarterback Joshua Dobbs, who is lengthy and agile. He has reaped over 300 yards on the ground, which isn’t too shabby for the position. Finally, backup Alvin Kamara has totaled for 255 yards.
The trio combines to create the league’s third ranked rushing unit.
Both the trio and the passing attack should have a tall task in the Crimson Tide, who sport the SEC’s scariest defense.
While this may be true, Vols’ fans should be happy to hear that Dobbs is trending upward. 312 yards and three touchdowns against the ‘Dawgs? That’s something Tennessee won’t take for granted anytime soon.
On a side note, knocking off a ranked rival after a bye week headed into this one? Never say never.
Next: Tennessee: Defense