Tennessee’s defense has proven that it can make plays behind the line of scrimmage. The Vols are third in the SEC with 22 tackles for a loss. For a defense that has been highly criticized over the past year, that’s some well deserved validation.
It would be easy to dismiss that stat as one that is only based on inferior opponents, like Ball State and Akron. However the Vols were incredibly disruptive against Pittsburgh with a whopping 10 tackles for a loss and two sacks.
“I think we’re doing a good job up front as well as everybody in the front seven, creating edges, getting in the backfield,” Tennessee defensive lineman/linebacker Tyler Baron said. “I think we’re just going to continue to be us and continue what we do and nothing more really.”
Fun-and-Run Florida
Forget any notions you might have about former Florida coach Steve Spurrier and his high-flying passing attack. These aren’t those Gators. Florida’s football team under first-year Florida head coach Billy Napier wants to run the football first and foremost.
“I think them being so successful with the run game, I think it all starts with the five offensive linemen up front,” Baron said. “They do a good job of playing behind their pads. They’re real physical. They’re real big guys so it’s going to be a challenge for us, but I think we’re ready for it, to be honest with you.”
The Big O
When asked about Tennessee junior defensive lineman Omari Thomas, Baron said, “Big O, he just takes strides every week. It’s really cool to watch, just seeing him develop as a player, but also as a leader. He’s doing a great job helping lead our group. I’m just really excited for his future. I think he has a very bright one ahead of him.
Go West Young Man
As for freshman defensive lineman Tyre West, Baron said, “Tyre is just a real persistent kid. He wants to be better and he takes the time out and he’s trying to do the little things that will give him a better chance to do that. Him being consistent and him growing up a little bit, I think that’s been the difference in terms of his development.”
