Tennessee enters Saturday’s matchup against South Carolina with momentum from its win over Alabama, but another difficult road test awaits in Columbia.
The No. 11 Vols (6-1) are seeking their fourth consecutive victory against a South Carolina team that has had an extra week to prepare.
On Friday’s edition of Live Ball, former Tennessee defensive back Todd Kelly Jr. identified several areas that could determine whether the Vols leave Williams-Brice Stadium with another SEC win.
1. Keep George MacIntyre comfortable and protect the pocket
Tennessee’s offensive line has improved throughout the season, but South Carolina presents another significant challenge with edge rusher Dylan Stewart.
Kelly believes the matchup between Stewart and Tennessee offensive tackle David Sanders Jr. could be critical.
“We’ve seen they’ve gotten better with time, but again, it’s going to be another test that we got to shut him down,” Kelly said.
The former Vol identified Sanders as the player facing the most pressure to perform.
Tennessee must also continue creating opportunities through its run-pass option attack.
Kelly believes MacIntyre’s growing confidence, combined with DeSean Bishop’s effectiveness on the ground, can make the offense more difficult to defend.
“The more you can implement, especially on the road, that rushing attack, the more you’re able to make that RPO that much even more of an attack,” Kelly said.
2. Contain LaNorris Sellers and eliminate second-chance opportunities
South Carolina quarterback LaNorris Sellers presents a different challenge than Tennessee faced against Alabama.
His ability to extend plays, break tackles, and create additional rushing yards has become a central part of their offense.
Kelly believes Tennessee must challenge Sellers with pressure while preventing him from settling into a rhythm.
“Attacking him early and often, dialing up a different variety of blitzes and having him guessing,” Kelly said.
Tennessee’s defense has consistently limited explosive passing plays while creating turnovers.
Maintaining that discipline against Sellers will be critical, particularly when plays break down and defenders must finish tackles in space.
3. Establish control early and take the crowd out of the game
Tennessee’s last trip to Williams-Brice Stadium ended in a 63-38 loss in 2022.
Kelly believes the environment presents a significant challenge, particularly for MacIntyre, who is preparing for another SEC road start.
The VFL said the Vols cannot afford to let South Carolina build early momentum.
“Either Tennessee takes the crowd out of it, or South Carolina gets that crowd into it, and it’s going to be a long day,” Kelly said.
Kelly believes Tennessee can accomplish that by building an early two-possession advantage and forcing South Carolina away from its offensive game plan.
He also dismissed the idea that Tennessee must significantly change its approach following the Alabama victory.
“I think it’s just your identity. I think it’s who you are. I don’t think you have to change,” Kelly said.
Kelly’s prediction: Tennessee 24, South Carolina 21, with the Vols winning on a late field goal.
