DALLAS, Texas – Feel free to check my statistics on this, but there hasn’t been a more inexperienced player ever represent Tennessee at SEC Media Days than Keenan Pili.
Pili, the middle linebacker who will represent the Vols at SEC Media Days on Tuesday, played just one game for Tennessee last season after suffering a rare triceps injury in the season-opening game last season. Despite just transferring from BYU, Pili was tabbed as the starter at middle linebacker before the 2023 season. That’s how impressive he was in such a short amount of time.
Indulge me for a moment in just how important Pili is to his team. What would the Vols have been like defensively had Pili been able to return? We all saw the difference on offense when Mays returned after the Florida loss. With Mays, the Vols were a totally different offense. Maybe Pili could have had a similar impact? Unlike Mays, we never saw Pili “resurrect” a unit that was a problem – and linebackers were definitely a problem last season.
Former Vol Elijah Herring transferred to Memphis after struggling in Pili’s absence, especially in pass coverage. Sophomore Arion Carter could have been more of a factor, but he was banged up for most of the season. If he’s healthy this year, look out. Combining him with Pili could get far more publicity than any preseason event. The two could become the best linebacker combo in the league.
Why he’s in Dallas
Pili is incredibly well respected among his teammates, knows the defense and treats college football like a job. When he clocks in, he takes things seriously. Oh yeah, Pili is also incredibly tough, which should make the Vols pretty intimidating against opposing rushing attacks. Also, Pili hasn’t played much for Tennessee, but he’s played plenty. Thanks to an NCAA waiver, Pili has played six seasons of college football with another on the way.
Coverage of SEC Media Days live form Dallas, Texas is brought to you by WorkTrux and Volunteer Automotive Group.
