Tennessee’s offense may have less star power but seem destined to outshine their counterparts from last season after one-sided victories against Syracuse and East Tennessee State. That would have sounded like heresy last season.

After all, the Vols had a ballyhooed recruit at quarterback in Nico Iamaleava that was supposedly destined for greatness, a group of receivers that seemingly had all the talent needed to excel, a solid offensive line with experience and a running back that would end up being named the SEC Offensive Player of the Year. Surely, Tennessee football couldn’t be better than than last season once the calendar turned to 2025.

Well, they just might be, especially after they showcased their wares in a 72-17win over ETSU on Saturday at Neyland Stadium. The Vols already seem to be as good at quarterback as they were last season. UT signal-caller Joey Aguilar might not have all the physical tools, but he certainly has enough to be a standout SEC player.

Plus, after two games, he seems to have more moxie that Iamaleava. Aguilar might have Iamaleava’s overall talent, but so far the former All-Sun Belt standout is more than handling his own.

As for that rebuilt offensive line? Tennessee football had to replace four starters, but it certainly doesn’t look like a rebuilt group. Pass protection has been solid, and the Vols can dominate the line of scrimmage when they need to, especially on short-yardage situations, often times close to the goal line.

UT’s receivers look to be markedly better for a couple of reasons. Former Vol Bru McCoy never looked healthy last season, and he was supposed to be the bell cow of the group. Squirrel White never hit his stride as the Vols slot receiver and may have had an early eye towards Florida State, where he transferred during the offseason. Meanwhile, Dont’e Thornton was supposed to be a receiver that could stretch defenses, but injuries kept him from every being utilized properly.

Then, there’s the glaring weakness – or at least what was supposed to be. Tennessee’s coaches knew they had to replace former UT running back Dylan Sampson. Most thought that would cause some serious anxiety. After all, Sampson was considered the best offensive player in the SEC.

No problem.

The Vols have replaced Sampson with a trio of tailbacks that can get the job done. They also give UT more options if one goes down with an injury at some point in the season, which is almost bound to happen. No offense to Sampson, but there’s a strong argument to be made that three is better than one, especially when it comes to running backs in the SEC that take more hits than Snoop Dog.

Had Sampson been hurt last season, the Vols would have had to turn to DeSean Bishop, who is solid but probably not an every down back. After Bishop, things would have gotten dicey. As for this season, Bishop is just one of the factors out the backfield. Tennessee football can also lean on transfer Star Thomas and Peyton Lewis, whose physically ability may make him one of the best tailbacks in the SEC in the very near future.

Certainly, the Vols’ offense hasn’t arrived, but it’s closer than most would have thought. Beating Syracuse and ETSU by a combined 64 points and rolling up 117 points on the schedule against such lowly opponents doesn’t define Tennessee’s offense, but it doesn’t need to.

The Vols will only get better on offense despite who they play in the coming weeks. That improvement likely won’t result in as many yards or points, but it might just result in a more effective offense, which could mean more wins and success this season than anyone would have possibly expected.

A rebuilding season on offense was supposed to result in a bowl game and no playoff appearance. I’m not so sure. With two games behind them, the Vols haven’t rebuilt. They’ve reloaded. That didn’t seem possible after the Iamaleava drama and losses following last season. However, it’s a fact. The Vols are going to be a contender for a playoff spot. Their surprising offense will see to that.