What's the biggest weakness on our offense? The line? Their starting defensive line doesn't appear to be very big. 248, 230, 250, 256. I think our OL will be able to handle their own, and I think we will be able to run the ball with reasonable success. This should be very important. If we can sustain drives, it will help keep that potent offense off the field and give our guys some time to rest. I'm not confident that we're explosive enough to be able to keep up in a high scoring game.
So, most of you guys aren't going to like what I'm about to say, but I'm going to write it anyway, as some of you will find it useful and maybe it will keep you from making the mistake of betting an unreasonably large sum of money on your beloved Vols.
First, on the factual front, we are indeed somewhat undersized on the d-line, but those numbers above are old or inaccurate. From our current roster, the starting d-line is 261, 272, 270, 232 (hybrid OLB/DE).
Now, on to the painful part. I watched your game against UT-M on espn3 and you guys will struggle to move the ball against the Oregon defense. Your offensive line was not dominating a mediocre FCS defensive front until they were worn down in the third quarter, at which point the UT o-line started really taking it to them.
That is not going to be nearly good enough against Oregon. This was the best defense in the Pac-10 last year, has 8/9 starters back and by all accounts, is looking better than ever this fall. You may not have much respect for the Pac-10, but it goes without saying, that the Ducks are far superior to Tennessee-Martin in every way. A team who UT didn't dominate until they were worn out (which will not happen to Oregon, as the Ducks are VERY deep on defense).
You have two really nice backs and from what I saw and have read, you have a lot of potential on the o-line; but your offense is going to struggle mightily in this game, so don't bet the house on this one. An inexperienced offensive line (even one that is going to be good) against a strong/experienced defense that throws a ton of different looks at offenses, is a recipe for disaster. We experienced this last year in our opener against Boise St. and our o-line, though talented, struggled through our first three games, improving incrementally and finally playing well for the first time in game four.
By the way, while I think a Tennessee win is unlikely, it could still happen despite what I wrote above. The UT defense looks very good and maybe they can shut down the Oregon offense as well (I'd be surprised, but I've been surprised before). Or, there are always turnovers, and if enough go your way, you always have a chance.
If the turnover margin is even, Oregon is about 20 points better than UT in my opinion. But if I'm wrong, I'll be happy to stop by Sunday or Monday to take my medicine.
Good luck and here's hoping that both teams get through the game injury free.