SEC Football Bowl Predictions: Gazing in the Future
By Lee Wardlaw
Oct 31, 2015; Lexington, KY, USA; Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Joshua Dobbs (11) runs into the end zone for a touchdown against the Kentucky Wildcats at Commonwealth Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bryan Lynn-USA TODAY Sports
Tennessee (5-4), (4-3) SEC
How things would be different for the Vols if they hadn’t won close ones against division rivals South Carolina and Georgia. They certainly wouldn’t be entering week ten with an excellent chance of qualifying for a New Year’s Day Bowl game in the Sunshine State.
At 5-4, things are looking on the rise for Butch Jones. The reason I say that? A battle-hardened Volunteers team will have the chance to walk through North Texas, Missouri, and Vanderbilt on a romp towards the postseason.
Then, if they can knock off a Big Ten school to christen the New Year, they’ll have a chance to finish the season ranked in the Top 25. That would be a major boost for a program that is prone to mediocrity. This success should also be vital in pulling in some top talent, as Tennessee looks to improve a once proud program.
Southbound and Down is ‘calling it’. If the Vols’ can win out, they’ll be headed to the Outback Bowl in Tampa and they’ll bring plenty of fans to accompany them.
Next: Mississippi: Citrus Bowl