SEC Football: Top 15 Out of Conference Games for 2016

8. Tennessee vs. Virginia Tech

When: Saturday, September 10th, 7pm. CT

Where: Bristol Motor Speedway, Bristol, TN

How to Watch: ABC

Last season the Tennessee Volunteers looked like a team on the verge of a major breakthrough. But on the biggest stages, against Florida and Alabama, they couldn’t quite put the pieces together. This year they’re fortunate to return most of those same pieces for another attempt. On offense the Vols return four of five offensive linemen, along with quarterback Joshua Dobbs and running backs Jalen Hurd and Alvin Kamara.

On defense, the Volunteers return nine starters from a unit that allowed only 20 points per game. The time is now or never for Butch Jones. Unfortunately for Tennessee, they have some difficult hurdles to clear on their way to a playoff berth. The first of those hurdles is the Virginia Tech Hokies.

The Hokies had a tough time last season, but they have high hopes for this season. This is primarily inspired by new coach Justin Fuente as well as the return of four offensive linemen and star tailback Travon McMillian. On defense, the venerable Bud Foster is still running the show. He should use a talented defensive line to improve on last year’s sub par performance.

Prediction: The Volunteers will use their superior experience to stifle the Virginia Tech offense, and the rebuilding Tech defense won’t be able to slow down the three-headed monster of Dobbs, Hurd, and Kamara. Tennessee wins comfortably.

Next: Aggies vs. Bruins