Tennessee couldn’t have asked for a much better start.
The Vols destroyed Furman 56-9, piled up 638 yards of offense and jumped to No. 18 in the AP Poll.
But how much should we actually buy into Tennessee right now?
Faizon Brandon: STOCK WAY UP
This was the biggest story.
True freshman Faizon Brandon completed 13 of 17 passes for 226 yards and three touchdowns while adding 68 rushing yards and two more scores.
Five touchdowns in your first college game isn’t bad.
Brandon was named SEC Freshman of the Week, and suddenly Tennessee’s biggest preseason question might become one of its biggest strengths.
Mike Matthews: STOCK UP
This could finally be the breakout season everyone has been waiting for.
Matthews caught just four passes but turned them into 132 yards and two touchdowns, including scores of 55 and 57 yards.
With Brandon’s arm talent, Matthews could become one of the SEC’s most explosive receivers.
Tennessee’s Defense: STOCK UP
Furman finished with only 220 yards, including just 43 through the air.
Defensive lineman Xavier Gilliam was especially ridiculous, finishing with five tackles for loss and three sacks.
Obviously, it’s Furman.
But that’s exactly how an SEC defense should look against an FCS opponent.
Offensive Line: STOCK DOWN
Here’s my biggest concern.
Tennessee eventually ran for 329 yards, but the offensive line struggled early, especially without starting center Sam Pendleton. Josh Heupel admitted there were communication and technique issues that need to improve.
That can’t happen when the schedule gets harder.
Overall Tennessee Stock: UP
I’m buying Tennessee more than I was a week ago.
Brandon looked fantastic, Matthews looks ready to explode and the defense dominated.
Now comes a much better test at Georgia Tech, followed shortly afterward by a massive home game against Texas.
Tennessee looks dangerous. Now we find out if the Vols are actually for real.
