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Download the Kalshi app and use code ATOZ to get $20 when you trade $20. Kalshi. Trade on anything. Sign up today: Sponsor Disclosure: Kalshi: 18+ only. Restrictions and eligibility requirements apply. Event contract trading involves risk and may not be suitable for all investors. Kalshi products are not available in all jurisdictions. Prices, values, and available markets may differ from those mentioned. For more information see kalshi.com/regulatory. Test Out The A to Z Sports College Football Playoff Predictor Today: Tennessee isn't playing this weekend, but that doesn't mean Vols fans have nothing to watch. The latest Big Orange Podcast breaks down the biggest games Tennessee fans should be watching during the bye week and explains which teams the Vols should be rooting for as they continue to chase a spot in the College Football Playoff. With Tennessee sitting at 6-2, the results around the SEC could have a major impact on the Vols' playoff chances and potential seeding. Charlie Burris and Zach Ragan discuss several games that could directly affect Tennessee's postseason picture. One of the biggest games is Ole Miss vs. Auburn. The guys believe Tennessee fans should be rooting for Auburn because another loss for Ole Miss could eliminate one of the SEC's potential two-loss playoff contenders and make Tennessee's path much cleaner. They also discuss South Carolina vs. Oklahoma. Despite South Carolina being the team that just beat Tennessee, the Vols actually have a reason to root for the Gamecocks in this one. A South Carolina win could help Tennessee's playoff résumé and make the Vols' loss in Columbia look better to the College Football Playoff committee. Georgia vs. Florida is another important game. Tennessee fans should be rooting for Georgia because a Florida win could create another dangerous 9-3 or 10-2 SEC team that Tennessee would potentially have to compete against for a playoff spot. The guys also discuss Missouri, Texas, LSU, Alabama and the growing cluster of SEC teams fighting for playoff positioning. The bigger goal for Tennessee is simple: win the final four games. But if the Vols can get some help around the conference, the playoff picture could become significantly more favorable. The guys also discuss playoff seeding and why Tennessee should care about more than simply making the College Football Playoff. A 10-2 Tennessee team could potentially host a first-round playoff game at Neyland Stadium, while a lower seed could force the Vols to travel across the country for their opening-round matchup. The episode also features a look at the A to Z Sports College Football Playoff Predictor, which allows fans to manipulate results around the country and see how different outcomes affect Tennessee's playoff chances. Who should Tennessee fans root for this weekend? Should Vols fans root for Auburn against Ole Miss? Should Tennessee actually root for South Carolina after the Gamecocks just beat the Vols? What happens if Florida beats Georgia? And which SEC teams need to lose before Tennessee reaches the LSU game? Charlie Burris and Zach Ragan break it all down on the latest Big Orange Podcast. Subscribe to A to Z Sports Tennessee for Tennessee Volunteers football news, analysis, recruiting updates, game reactions and Big Orange Podcast episodes throughout the 2026 season. 00:00 Tennessee Fans' Bye Week Rooting Guide 02:32 Tennessee's Playoff Predictor 03:44 Root For Auburn Against Ole Miss 07:38 Root For South Carolina Against Oklahoma 09:09 Texas vs. Mississippi State 12:18 Georgia vs. Florida 15:15 Tennessee's Path To A Home Playoff Game Make A to Z Sports your preferred source on Google: Play A to Z Sports Daily Games: For more VOLS coverage: Facebook: Twitter: Instagram: TikTok: #TennesseeVols #TennesseeFootball #Vols #CollegeFootballPlayoff #CFP

Test Out The A to Z Sports College Football Playoff Predictor NOW: Tennessee's College Football Playoff hopes are NOT dead. The latest Big Orange Podcast breaks down the Vols' remaining path to the College Football Playoff using the new A to Z Sports College Football Playoff Predictor. Tennessee enters the bye week coming off the brutal loss to South Carolina, but the Vols still have a legitimate path to the postseason. The guys walk through every remaining Tennessee game and show how the team's playoff odds change depending on what happens. At the start of the episode, Tennessee has a 23% chance to make the College Football Playoff according to the predictor. Beat Kentucky, and that number jumps to 32%. Beat Texas A&M, and Tennessee's chances climb to 51%. Beat LSU, and the Vols jump all the way to a 90% chance. Then Tennessee simply needs to take care of Vanderbilt. The guys explain why the LSU game could essentially function like an early-round playoff game for Tennessee. They also discuss the possibility that Tennessee could win out and still not play in the SEC Championship Game which might actually be a good thing for the Vols' playoff chances. The College Football Playoff Predictor allows users to manipulate every remaining game around the country and see how those results affect Tennessee's playoff odds and potential seeding. That creates some fascinating scenarios. What happens if Georgia loses another game? What happens if Texas loses? What happens if Ole Miss drops another game? What happens if South Carolina continues winning? And what teams should Tennessee fans actually be rooting for? The guys also explore the possibility of Tennessee finishing 10-2 and still making the College Football Playoff, as well as what a three-loss Tennessee team would need to happen around the country to stay alive. The Vols' biggest priority is obvious: win out. But the national picture could get extremely chaotic in November. Tennessee has Kentucky, Texas A&M, LSU and Vanderbilt remaining, and the guys believe the Vols are still capable of winning all four. George MacIntyre's continued development is also a major storyline. Despite the brutal ending against South Carolina, the guys believe MacIntyre showed significant growth and that Tennessee should continue allowing him to develop rather than making a quarterback change. Can Tennessee win out? Could the Vols reach the SEC Championship Game? Would Tennessee actually be better off missing the SEC Championship Game? And what results around the country should Tennessee fans be rooting for? Charlie Burris and Zach Ragan break it all down on the latest Big Orange Podcast. Check out the A to Z Sports College Football Playoff Predictor and build your own Tennessee playoff scenarios. Subscribe to A to Z Sports Tennessee for Tennessee Volunteers football news, analysis, recruiting updates, game reactions and Big Orange Podcast episodes throughout the 2026 season. 00:00 Tennessee's Playoff Path 01:10 What Tennessee Needs To Do 02:16 Can The Vols Win Out? 04:36 Tennessee's Biggest Remaining Tests 07:43 LSU Could Be A Playoff Game 09:06 What If Tennessee Loses Again? 10:23 Should Tennessee Want The SEC Championship? 15:18 Tennessee's Best-Case Playoff Scenario 18:04 What If Tennessee Goes 9-3? 20:05 Who Should Tennessee Fans Root For? 23:26 Tennessee's Playoff Path Is Still Alive Make A to Z Sports your preferred source on Google: Play A to Z Sports Daily Games: For more VOLS coverage: Facebook: Twitter: Instagram: TikTok: #TennesseeVols #TennesseeFootball #Vols #CollegeFootballPlayoff #GeorgeMacIntyre

Tennessee should have beaten South Carolina. That's the biggest takeaway from the latest Big Orange Podcast. Charlie Burris and Zach Ragan break down Tennessee's brutal loss at South Carolina and explain why the defeat shouldn't automatically be placed on Josh Heupel. The Vols fell behind 14-0 early, but responded by taking control of the game. Tennessee dominated much of the final 50 minutes, took a halftime lead, made strong adjustments and put itself in position to win the game late. In fact, Charlie and Zach believe it was one of Josh Heupel's better-coached road games at Tennessee. The problem was that the Vols couldn't finish. After controlling South Carolina for most of the afternoon, Tennessee had a chance to essentially end the game on a fourth-down play late in the fourth quarter. George MacIntyre failed to execute the handoff, resulting in a turnover on downs and giving South Carolina another opportunity. The Gamecocks eventually tied the game, and Tennessee's defense couldn't prevent LaNorris Sellers from making an incredible play at the goal line. Dylan Stewart then made the biggest defensive play of the game for South Carolina, forcing a fumble from MacIntyre and setting up the winning field goal. That leaves Tennessee with an incredibly frustrating reality: The Vols were good enough to win. They just didn't execute when it mattered most. Charlie and Zach also discuss the controversial officiating from the game. They don't believe the officials "lost" the game for Tennessee, but they do believe the officiating crew was poor and that several questionable calls came at extremely important moments. Multiple Tennessee touchdowns were wiped off the board by penalties, and the Vols also appeared to miss out on a late unnecessary roughness penalty that could have significantly changed South Carolina's game-winning field-goal attempt. Still, Tennessee had opportunities to overcome all of that. The guys explain why the fourth-down play was the biggest turning point and why Tennessee's defense deserves some criticism for allowing South Carolina to finish the comeback. They also discuss what the loss means for Tennessee's playoff hopes. Despite the loss, the Vols still have a path to the SEC Championship Game and the College Football Playoff if they win out. That means the season is far from over. Tennessee now turns its attention to Kentucky, Texas A&M, LSU and Vanderbilt. Can the Vols bounce back? Can George MacIntyre respond? And can Tennessee finally start finishing these close games? Charlie Burris and Zach Ragan break it all down on the latest Big Orange Podcast. Subscribe to A to Z Sports Tennessee for Tennessee Volunteers football news, analysis, recruiting updates, game reactions and Big Orange Podcast episodes throughout the 2026 season. 00:00 Tennessee's Brutal Loss To South Carolina 01:56 Tennessee Controlled Most Of The Game 05:30 Was This Actually One Of Heupel's Best Games? 08:23 The Two Decisions That Changed Everything 13:33 Did The Refs Cost Tennessee? 17:19 Tennessee Still Has A Playoff Path 22:02 Two Plays Cost Tennessee The Game Make A to Z Sports your preferred source on Google: Play A to Z Sports Daily Games: For more VOLS coverage: Facebook: Twitter: Instagram: TikTok: #TennesseeVols #TennesseeFootball #Vols #JoshHeupel #GeorgeMacIntyre

Should Tennessee bench George MacIntyre after the Vols' heartbreaking 27-24 loss to South Carolina? Former Tennessee quarterback Jonathan Crompton strongly disagrees with fans calling for another quarterback change. George MacIntyre's performance against South Carolina has become one of the biggest talking points following Tennessee's devastating defeat. The young quarterback completed 16 of 23 passes for 136 yards, but his final stat line doesn't tell the full story. Three potential touchdown passes were erased by penalties, while a disastrous fourth-and-one and a late sack-fumble played major roles in Tennessee's collapse. On the A to Z Sports Big Orange Podcast, Charlie Burris and Jonathan Crompton break down what actually went wrong and why Crompton believes MacIntyre deserves to remain Tennessee's starting quarterback. Crompton explains why the offensive line deserves significant responsibility for the late sack-fumble, while also identifying the fourth-down mistake that MacIntyre must learn from. The former Vols quarterback also pushes back against fans blaming Josh Heupel for Tennessee's costly penalties and receiver alignment mistakes. Were the coaches putting players in position to succeed, or does Tennessee have a larger execution problem? **Topics covered:** - Should Tennessee bench George MacIntyre? - Why MacIntyre's final passing statistics are misleading - Three touchdown passes erased by penalties - Jesse Perry's role in the late sack-fumble - Tennessee's disastrous fourth-down miscommunication - Why Crompton puts more responsibility on MacIntyre for fourth down than the fumble - Josh Heupel's coaching versus player execution - Tennessee's quarterback outlook heading into the bye week Is George MacIntyre still Tennessee's best option at quarterback, or should Faison Brandon get another opportunity? Subscribe to A to Z Sports Tennessee Volunteers for quarterback analysis, Vols football news, and weekly Big Orange Podcast coverage. #GeorgeMacIntyre #TennesseeVols #JoshHeupel #VolsFootball #JonathanCrompton Make A to Z Sports your preferred source on Google: Play A to Z Sports Daily Games: For more VOLS coverage: Facebook: Twitter: Instagram: TikTok: #tennesseevols #tennesseevolunteers #secfootball

Tennessee football had THREE potential touchdown passes wiped away by penalties in a devastating 27-24 loss to South Carolina, leaving Vols fans wondering how Josh Heupel's team managed to throw away a game it appeared ready to win. After an emotional victory over Alabama, Tennessee entered Columbia with an opportunity to strengthen its College Football Playoff position. Instead, the Vols committed 11 penalties, failed to execute in critical moments, and watched South Carolina steal the game on a last-second field goal. On the A to Z Sports Big Orange Podcast, Charlie Burris and former Tennessee quarterback Jonathan Crompton break down the mistakes that cost the Vols their victory. Crompton explains why the penalties were particularly devastating, how Tennessee's offensive execution failed at the worst possible moments, and why blaming the officials misses the bigger problem. The conversation also turns to Tennessee's College Football Playoff chances. Can the Vols recover from this defeat, or did the South Carolina loss turn the remainder of their season into a must-win situation? **In this Tennessee football breakdown:** - Three George MacIntyre touchdown passes erased by penalties - Tennessee's 11-penalty performance - The critical mistakes that allowed South Carolina to escape - Why Tennessee's execution matters more than the officiating - The difference between playing better football and actually winning - How the loss impacts Tennessee's College Football Playoff hopes - Why South Carolina continues to give the Vols trouble in Columbia Did Tennessee lose this game because of poor coaching, bad discipline, or simply failing to finish? Subscribe to A to Z Sports Tennessee Volunteers for more Vols football news, postgame reactions, SEC analysis, and Big Orange Podcast coverage. #TennesseeVols #VolsFootball #TennesseeFootball #SouthCarolina #CollegeFootballPlayoff Make A to Z Sports your preferred source on Google: Play A to Z Sports Daily Games: For more VOLS coverage: Facebook: Twitter: Instagram: TikTok: #tennesseevols #tennesseevolunteers #secfootball

Download the Kalshi app and use code ATOZ to get $20 when you trade $20. Kalshi. Trade on anything. Sign up today: Sponsor Disclosure: Kalshi: 18+ only. Restrictions and eligibility requirements apply. Event contract trading involves risk and may not be suitable for all investors. Kalshi products are not available in all jurisdictions. Prices, values, and available markets may differ from those mentioned. For more information see kalshi.com/regulatory. Everyone is picking South Carolina against Tennessee. But are they making the same mistake everyone made before Tennessee's previous losses in Columbia? The latest Big Orange Podcast breaks down the Tennessee-South Carolina matchup and explains why the Vols may be much better equipped to avoid the trap this time around. Charlie Burris and Zach Ragan discuss Tennessee's first trip to Williams-Brice Stadium since the disastrous 2022 loss and explain why this year's team is fundamentally different. The Vols are 6-1 after beating Alabama, but they enter Columbia as 2.5-point underdogs. South Carolina has a strong home-field advantage, a talented roster and a defense that ranks among the better units in the SEC. But the guys believe the national narrative around this game may be driven too heavily by Tennessee's history in Columbia. In 2016, the Vols suffered a devastating loss at South Carolina. In 2022, Tennessee entered Columbia with College Football Playoff and SEC Championship aspirations before getting blown out by the Gamecocks. This year's team, however, has a completely different identity. Tennessee is playing some of the most physical football we've seen from the program in years. The Vols have consistently won games by wearing opponents down in the second half, and that physicality was on full display against Alabama. Jim Knowles' defense is also a massive difference. The Tennessee defense has been one of the best units in the country, and the guys believe that defense can travel to Columbia and keep South Carolina's offense under control. That could be the biggest reason Tennessee can win this game. The offense doesn't necessarily need to score 40 points. If Tennessee's defense can hold South Carolina around 23 points, the Vols simply need to score 24. That means George MacIntyre's biggest responsibility may simply be protecting the football and taking advantage of the opportunities South Carolina gives him. The Gamecocks have been much less impressive defensively against SEC opponents than their overall numbers suggest, and their pass defense could give Tennessee opportunities. The guys also discuss South Carolina's rushing defense, Tennessee's ability to run the football and why the matchup may not be as difficult as the betting line suggests. Another major factor is South Carolina quarterback LaNorris Sellers. Sellers is a talented, physical quarterback who can make plays with his legs, but Tennessee's defense has shown an ability to disguise coverages, confuse quarterbacks and dictate what opposing offenses are allowed to do. If the Vols can tackle well and prevent Sellers and running back Oscar Adaway from creating explosive plays, Tennessee should have a legitimate chance to control the game. Zach Ragan predicts Tennessee to win 24-13. Charlie Burris predicts a much closer 23-20 Tennessee victory. Both agree that the Vols have a real opportunity to leave Columbia with a win. But there are still plenty of dangerous games remaining on Tennessee's schedule, including Kentucky, Texas A&M and LSU. Can Tennessee avoid another South Carolina disaster? Can Jim Knowles' defense continue its dominance? Can George MacIntyre make enough plays? And can the Vols prove that this team is different from the Tennessee teams that suffered heartbreaking losses in Columbia? Charlie Burris and Zach Ragan break it all down on the latest Big Orange Podcast. Subscribe to A to Z Sports Tennessee for Tennessee Volunteers football news, analysis, recruiting updates, game reactions and Big Orange Podcast episodes throughout the 2026 season. 00:00 Tennessee vs. South Carolina Preview 01:50 Why Tennessee Is Built To Avoid The Trap 05:14 Is South Carolina A Sucker's Bet? 07:25 Can George MacIntyre Handle The Road? 10:15 How Tennessee Can Beat South Carolina 12:25 Jim Knowles vs. LaNorris Sellers 15:34 Zach's Tennessee Prediction 17:48 Charlie's Tennessee Prediction Make A to Z Sports your preferred source on Google: Play A to Z Sports Daily Games: For more VOLS coverage: Facebook: Twitter: Instagram: TikTok: #TennesseeVols #TennesseeFootball #Vols #SouthCarolina #JimKnowles

Is Tennessee's defense actually the best defense in America? The latest Big Orange Podcast takes a deep dive into Jim Knowles' remarkable first season as Tennessee's defensive coordinator and asks whether the Vols have developed the best defense in college football. Zach Ragan and Charlie Burris discuss the incredible transformation of Tennessee's defense and how far the unit has exceeded expectations entering the 2026 season. Before the season, the expectation was simply for Tennessee to improve. A top-40 defense would have been considered a major success. Instead, the Vols are now among the nation's statistical leaders in nearly every major defensive category. Tennessee ranks first nationally in sacks, second in explosive passes allowed, third in defensive efficiency, third in tackles for loss and third in fourth-down defense. The Vols also rank among the national leaders in limiting explosive plays, pass defense, scoring defense and takeaways. And the numbers don't even tell the entire story. Tennessee's defense completely overwhelmed Alabama in Knoxville, holding the Crimson Tide to just 200 total yards and making Alabama's offense look uncomfortable for most of the afternoon. The biggest reason is Jim Knowles. Knowles has consistently found ways to put Tennessee's players in positions to succeed, using different formations, rotations and pressures depending on what opposing offenses are trying to do. The Vols have also dramatically improved their communication. Players are identifying formations, communicating before the snap and seemingly knowing exactly what is coming. That is a stark contrast to what Tennessee fans saw from the defense in previous seasons. The guys discuss Jeremiah Telander's transformation, the impact of Arion Carter's leadership and the incredible play of Tennessee's defensive line. Xavier Gilliam has emerged as one of the most disruptive interior defensive linemen in the country, while the entire defensive front has taken another step under defensive line coach Rodney Garner. Perhaps most impressive is that Knowles has done all of this largely with a roster he inherited. Tennessee added several veterans from Penn State, but much of the production is coming from players Knowles did not recruit. That makes the transformation even more impressive. The guys also look ahead to South Carolina and explain why they're both nervous about the game despite having so much confidence in Tennessee's defense. South Carolina has historically given Tennessee problems, and the Vols cannot afford to overlook the Gamecocks after an emotional win over Alabama. But there is reason for optimism. Tennessee's defense travels. The Vols don't need a perfect offensive performance to win. If the defense holds South Carolina around 23 points, Tennessee simply needs to score 24. The guys also discuss how Josh Heupel has evolved as a coach and why the Alabama game looked different from some of Tennessee's biggest games earlier in his tenure. Heupel has become more willing to play physical, complementary football, manage games aggressively and adapt to what it takes to win in the SEC. Tennessee is now 6-1 and has five winnable games remaining. Could the Vols have the best defense in America? Can Jim Knowles continue this level of dominance? And can Tennessee avoid an upset against South Carolina? Zach Ragan and Charlie Burris break it all down on the latest Big Orange Podcast. Subscribe to A to Z Sports Tennessee for Tennessee Volunteers football news, analysis, recruiting updates, game reactions and Big Orange Podcast episodes throughout the 2026 season. 00:00 Tennessee's Defense Has Been INCREDIBLE 01:16 The Vols Are Dominating Nationally 03:11 Is Tennessee's Defense The Best In America? 05:53 Jim Knowles Has Transformed This Defense 08:08 Tennessee's Defensive Line Is DOMINANT 10:39 South Carolina Is Still A Huge Concern 18:47 Josh Heupel Has EVOLVED Make A to Z Sports your preferred source on Google: Play A to Z Sports Daily Games: For more VOLS coverage: Facebook: Twitter: Instagram: TikTok: #TennesseeVols #TennesseeFootball #Vols #JimKnowles #CollegeFootball

Did Tennessee just find the formula it needs to win the rest of the season? The Vols dominated Alabama in Knoxville, and the latest Big Orange Podcast breaks down what Tennessee's win over the Crimson Tide revealed about this team. Charlie Burris and Zach Ragan discuss the biggest lessons from Tennessee's impressive victory, including the emergence of a new offensive identity, the continued improvement of the offensive line and the importance of complementary football. Tennessee didn't need to score 40 or 50 points to beat Alabama. Instead, the Vols methodically moved the football, controlled the line of scrimmage and repeatedly ran the ball against the Crimson Tide. That was one of the most encouraging developments of the entire season. After weeks of questions about Tennessee's offense and whether the Vols could consistently move the football against elite SEC competition, Tennessee put together one of its most complete offensive performances of the season. The offensive line deserves a huge amount of credit. Tennessee was able to push Alabama off the ball and create running lanes for DeSean Bishop, who continued to emerge as one of the most important players on the offense. At the same time, George MacIntyre played within the game plan. Rather than forcing unnecessary deep shots, Tennessee took what Alabama's defense gave it and kept the offense moving. That allowed Tennessee's defense to stay fresh and helped Jim Knowles' unit dominate the second half. Charlie and Zach discuss why this may be the clearest example yet of Josh Heupel embracing complementary football. The Vols don't necessarily need to turn every game into a track meet. They can win by controlling the football, playing efficient offense and allowing their defense to dictate the game. That could be a huge development with five games remaining. But there is also one major concern coming out of the Alabama win: DeSean Bishop's workload. Bishop has become one of Tennessee's most important offensive players, but the guys are concerned about how many touches he has accumulated over the last several SEC games. If Tennessee wants to make a deep postseason run, it cannot afford to run Bishop into the ground before December. Charlie and Zach discuss how Tennessee can take some pressure off Bishop by getting more players involved, including Dylan Morris, Javin Gordon, Justin Baker and Mike Matthews. The Vols now turn their attention to South Carolina, a bizarre team that has already produced some surprising results this season. Can Tennessee avoid an emotional hangover after beating Alabama? Can the Vols bring the same physicality to the road? And can Tennessee continue using the formula that worked so well against Alabama? Charlie Burris and Zach Ragan break it all down on the latest Big Orange Podcast. Subscribe to A to Z Sports Tennessee for Tennessee Volunteers football news, analysis, recruiting updates, game reactions and Big Orange Podcast episodes throughout the 2026 season. 00:00 Tennessee Dominated Alabama 01:01 Is Tennessee's Defense The Best In America? 01:52 Tennessee's Offensive Line DOMINATED 04:21 Josh Heupel's New SEC Formula 06:03 Tennessee CROCKPOTTED Alabama 09:13 Did Tennessee Finally Fix Its Offensive Line? 12:21 Can Tennessee Avoid An Alabama Hangover? 18:22 Tennessee Has A DeSean Bishop Problem Make A to Z Sports your preferred source on Google: Play A to Z Sports Daily Games: For more VOLS coverage: Facebook: Twitter: Instagram: TikTok: #TennesseeVols #TennesseeFootball #Vols #JoshHeupel #GeorgeMacIntyre

Tennessee beat Alabama—but how do the Vols keep that momentum going on the road against South Carolina? Charlie Burris and former Tennessee quarterback Jonathan Crompton identify the matchups that could determine whether the Vols reach their bye week at 7-1. Crompton outlines a defensive approach built around containing South Carolina’s quarterback. He wants Tennessee to use a hybrid defender as a spy, limit scrambling opportunities and force the Gamecocks to challenge a secondary he believes has taken a major step forward. The guys discuss the development of Tennessee’s defensive backs, including Ty Redmond and Kayin Lee, and why Jim Knowles’ defense gives the Vols a chance to travel well. On offense, Crompton’s biggest concern is South Carolina pass rusher Dylan Stewart. He explains how Stewart’s alignment could affect Tennessee’s tackles and why help from a tight end or running back may be necessary. Charlie remains wary of another difficult trip to Columbia. Crompton believes Tennessee is the better team and needs to play with that confidence rather than allowing the opponent or road environment to dictate the game. Plus: an early prediction and what another SEC victory would mean for Tennessee’s postseason opportunities. Subscribe to A to Z Sports Tennessee Volunteers for the Big Orange Podcast, Vols analysis and live postgame reaction after every Tennessee football game. #TennesseeFootball #Vols #TennesseeSouthCarolina #JimKnowles Make A to Z Sports your preferred source on Google: Play A to Z Sports Daily Games: For more VOLS coverage: Facebook: Twitter: Instagram: TikTok: #tennesseevols #tennesseevolunteers #secfootball

George MacIntyre has earned Tennessee’s starting quarterback job—and Jonathan Crompton believes one bad game should not take it away. After Tennessee’s 26-10 win over Alabama, Charlie Burris and former Vols quarterback Jonathan Crompton discuss how MacIntyre changed the quarterback conversation. Crompton explains why he would keep MacIntyre as Tennessee’s starter moving forward, even when Faizon Brandon is healthy. His evaluation goes beyond touchdown passes and highlights: MacIntyre protected scoring opportunities, avoided damaging sacks and made important reads against Alabama. The guys break down a bootleg completion to Mike Matthews, the interception and the decisions that helped Tennessee finish early possessions with points instead of costly mistakes. Crompton still sees a role for Brandon. He proposes a smaller package featuring designed runs, speed options and possible goal-line wrinkles, while MacIntyre takes at least 75 percent of the snaps and handles the biggest situations. The key is making the roles clear. Tennessee can keep Brandon involved, give defenses something else to prepare for and build depth without making MacIntyre feel that every mistake threatens his starting job. Charlie and Crompton also discuss how Josh Heupel’s fourth-down aggression showed trust in his players during Tennessee’s long closing touchdown drive. Subscribe to A to Z Sports Tennessee Volunteers for the Big Orange Podcast, Vols analysis and live postgame reaction after every Tennessee football game. #TennesseeFootball #Vols #GeorgeMacIntyre #FaizonBrandon Make A to Z Sports your preferred source on Google: Play A to Z Sports Daily Games: For more VOLS coverage: Facebook: Twitter: Instagram: TikTok: #tennesseevols #tennesseevolunteers #secfootball

Tennessee beat Alabama with a familiar formula: run the football, protect the quarterback and let a dominant defense control the game. Charlie Burris and former Vols quarterback Jonathan Crompton explain how Tennessee’s 26-10 victory over Alabama revealed a different identity for Josh Heupel’s program. Crompton compares this Tennessee team to Alabama’s teams of the early 2010s. The offense doesn’t have to produce an overwhelming passing performance when the running game, defense and field position work together. Jim Knowles’ defense confused Alabama quarterback Keelon Russell with pressure, disguised pressure and changing coverages. When Tennessee made a costly mistake on a punt return, the defense responded with a fourth-down stop. Alabama failed to score in the second half. Then DeSean Bishop and Tennessee’s offensive line delivered the closing punch. A fourth-quarter touchdown possession consumed more than nine minutes, kept Alabama’s offense off the field and helped secure the victory. The guys discuss the blocking from Tennessee’s offensive line, tight ends and receivers, along with the offensive creativity that helped the Vols sustain possessions. Crompton also explains why Tennessee’s ability to recover from mistakes showed a team working together across all three phases. Was this the performance that established Tennessee’s identity for the rest of the season? Subscribe to A to Z Sports Tennessee Volunteers for the Big Orange Podcast, Vols analysis and live postgame reaction after every Tennessee football game. #TennesseeFootball #Vols #TennesseeAlabama #JimKnowles Make A to Z Sports your preferred source on Google: Play A to Z Sports Daily Games: For more VOLS coverage: Facebook: Twitter: Instagram: TikTok: #tennesseevols #tennesseevolunteers #secfootball

Download the Kalshi app and use code ATOZ to get $20 when you trade $20. Kalshi. Trade on anything. Sign up today: Sponsor Disclosure: Kalshi: 18+ only. Restrictions and eligibility requirements apply. Event contract trading involves risk and may not be suitable for all investors. Kalshi products are not available in all jurisdictions. Prices, values, and available markets may differ from those mentioned. For more information see kalshi.com/regulatory. Can the Tennessee Vols beat Alabama for the third straight time in Knoxville? Charlie Burris and Zach Ragan break down the biggest matchup of the season on the latest Big Orange Podcast and explain exactly what Tennessee needs to do to pull off the upset against the Crimson Tide. The Vols enter the game as 7.5-point home underdogs, but Tennessee has a legitimate path to winning. The biggest key is obvious: the defense has to play like the defense we've seen throughout the season. Jim Knowles' unit has been one of the biggest reasons for optimism around Tennessee, and the guys believe the Vols can hold Alabama around 20 points if everything goes right. That would put the pressure on Tennessee's offense to simply score enough to win. George MacIntyre will make his first start against Alabama, and the young quarterback could be the biggest variable in the game. MacIntyre played well enough at Arkansas to give Tennessee confidence, but Alabama is a completely different challenge. He cannot make the same mistakes he made against Arkansas, particularly the interception that came from failing to see the safety. At the same time, Tennessee cannot play scared. The Vols will need explosive plays against Alabama, and Charlie and Zach believe MacIntyre will have to take some chances down the field. Tennessee isn't likely to sustain several long touchdown drives against a defense this talented, which means the Vols need to capitalize when opportunities arise. Getting the football to Mike Matthews and Braylon Staley will be important, as will finding a way to run the football against an Alabama defense that ranks among the SEC's best against the run. The guys also identify several reasons for optimism. Alabama is coming off an extremely physical loss to Georgia. The Crimson Tide have some important injuries, including questions at center, while Tennessee will have a raucous Neyland Stadium behind it. Alabama quarterback Keelon Russell is also still relatively young. Russell is an extremely talented athlete who can hurt Tennessee with his legs, but the guys believe Jim Knowles could potentially confuse him and force him into mistakes. That makes the opening minutes especially important. If Tennessee can score first and get the Neyland crowd involved, the Vols could put significant pressure on Alabama and its young quarterback. A defensive touchdown or special-teams score could also be the difference. Zach Ragan ultimately predicts Alabama to win 24-20, while Charlie Burris picks Tennessee to pull off the upset 27-24. Can George MacIntyre make the throws Tennessee needs? Can Jim Knowles' defense slow down Keelan Russell? Can the Vols avoid turnovers? And can Tennessee beat Alabama for the third straight time in Knoxville? Charlie Burris and Zach Ragan break it all down on the latest Big Orange Podcast. Subscribe to A to Z Sports Tennessee for Tennessee Volunteers football news, analysis, recruiting updates, game reactions and Big Orange Podcast episodes throughout the 2026 season. 00:00 Tennessee vs. Alabama Preview 00:51 George MacIntyre Will Start Against Alabama 01:13 Why Nobody Is Picking Tennessee 02:14 How Can Tennessee Score? 03:30 Keelan Russell's Biggest Strength 04:40 Can Tennessee's Defense Hold Alabama To 20? 05:46 Tennessee's Offense Has To Keep Up 06:24 George MacIntyre's Big-Play Opportunities 07:38 Alabama's Center Situation 08:29 Tennessee's Pass Rush Could Be Key 09:16 Tennessee MUST Avoid Turnovers 10:39 Alabama's Defense Can Be Exploited 11:11 Tennessee Has To Find Explosive Plays 12:25 George MacIntyre's Performance At Arkansas 13:47 Call Sheet Sponsorship 15:17 Zach's Alabama Prediction 16:46 Zach Predicts Alabama 24-20 17:10 Charlie's Tennessee Prediction 17:47 Tennessee Needs To Score First 18:44 Charlie Predicts Tennessee 27-24 19:09 Why Tennessee Can Pull Off The Upset 20:25 Tennessee's History Against Alabama 22:25 Can Tennessee Keep Winning In Knoxville? Make A to Z Sports your preferred source on Google: Play A to Z Sports Daily Games: For more VOLS coverage: Facebook: Twitter: Instagram: TikTok: #TennesseeVols #TennesseeFootball #Vols #AlabamaFootball #GeorgeMacIntyre

The Tennessee Vols have a massive quarterback decision to make before Alabama, and the latest Big Orange Podcast has a bold idea: why not use both George MacIntyre and Faizon Brandon? Charlie Burris and Zach Ragan break down Tennessee's quarterback situation after George MacIntyre led the Vols to a win at Arkansas and explain why they believe MacIntyre should start against Alabama, even if Brandon is healthy. MacIntyre has now won both of his SEC games as Tennessee's quarterback and took another step forward against Arkansas. He made several important throws, handled pressure and helped Tennessee escape Fayetteville with its first win there since 2001. That matters heading into Alabama. The guys believe MacIntyre has earned the right to start against the Crimson Tide, particularly because he now has more SEC game experience than Brandon and has spent the past two games operating Tennessee's offense. But that doesn't mean Tennessee should completely abandon Faizon Brandon. Brandon's biggest strength right now may be his athleticism and ability to run the football. That leads to an intriguing idea: Tennessee could potentially use MacIntyre as its primary quarterback while bringing Brandon into the game for designed runs, RPOs, short-yardage situations or other packages. Charlie and Zach discuss why that could allow both quarterbacks to do what they currently do best. The bigger issue, however, is that Tennessee needs to get creative against Alabama. The Vols are not going to be able to rely solely on the running game. Alabama's defense will be focused on stopping Tennessee's rushing attack and forcing the young quarterback to throw the football. That means Tennessee needs to make plays through the air. The guys discuss whether Tennessee can protect MacIntyre in more traditional passing formations, whether the Vols can effectively run the football from spread sets and why Tennessee may need to use more 12 personnel to give the offense a chance. They also argue that a conventional, predictable offense may not be enough to beat Alabama. Tennessee needs wrinkles. It needs explosive plays. And it may need to think outside the box. The Vols' defense should give Tennessee a chance. Charlie and Zach expect Jim Knowles' unit to play well against Alabama, but the question is whether Tennessee can score enough points to win. The guys believe the Vols may need around 30 points, which creates a major problem: where are those points going to come from? Can George MacIntyre make enough downfield throws? Can Tennessee establish Deshaun Bishop and the running game? Should Faizon Brandon have a specialized package? And can Josh Heupel find enough creative ways to stress Alabama's defense? Charlie and Zach also discuss Tennessee's injury situation heading into Alabama and why the status of Braylon Staley and the tight end room could have a major impact on the offensive game plan. The Vols are preparing for one of their biggest games of the season, and the quarterback situation is just the beginning. Can Tennessee beat Alabama for the third straight time in Knoxville? Charlie Burris and Zach Ragan break it all down on the latest Big Orange Podcast. Subscribe to A to Z Sports Tennessee for Tennessee Volunteers football news, analysis, recruiting updates, game reactions and Big Orange Podcast episodes throughout the 2026 season. 00:00 George McIntyre Takes Tennessee To A Win 00:46 Should George Start Against Alabama? 01:17 George Has Earned The Start 02:18 McIntyre Took A Step Forward At Arkansas 03:34 Why George Should Start Against Alabama 04:27 Should Tennessee Use BOTH QBs? 05:40 The Case For A Faizon Package 06:36 Tennessee's QB Situation Is Different 07:45 Alabama Preview Begins 08:34 Where Will Tennessee's Points Come From? 10:28 Tennessee HAS To Throw Against Alabama 12:26 The Running Game Is Non-Negotiable 13:37 Tennessee Needs To Get Creative 14:23 Heupel's QB Gamesmanship 15:28 Will Injuries Affect Tennessee's Plan? 16:14 Tennessee's Tight End Depth 17:15 Can Tennessee Beat Alabama? Make A to Z Sports your preferred source on Google: Play A to Z Sports Daily Games: For more VOLS coverage: Facebook: Twitter: Instagram: TikTok: #TennesseeVols #TennesseeFootball #Vols #AlabamaFootball #GeorgeMacIntyre

The Tennessee Vols are 5-1, but the latest Big Orange Podcast asks whether the current state of the program is actually good enough. Zach Ragan and Charlie Burris discuss the growing debate among Tennessee fans after the Vols escaped Arkansas and look at the bigger questions surrounding Josh Heupel, the offense and Tennessee's roster construction. Tennessee finally won in Fayetteville for the first time since 2001, but the victory did little to quiet concerns about the offense. That has created a split among Tennessee fans. Some believe the Vols are 5-1, ranked in the top 15 and still firmly in the College Football Playoff race, so fans should simply enjoy the wins. Others believe Tennessee's offense is nowhere near good enough for a program in Year 6 of the Josh Heupel era. Zach and Charlie argue that both sides have a point. Heupel has undeniably brought Tennessee back to a much higher level of football after two decades of inconsistency. But the guys also believe it is fair to question why Tennessee's offense looks the way it does in Year 6, particularly after the program has invested heavily in its roster. The quarterback situation is at the center of that discussion. Tennessee entered the season with two young quarterbacks in Faizon Brandon and George McIntyre rather than bringing in a proven veteran. The guys argue that Heupel's approach to the transfer portal and quarterback recruiting deserves serious scrutiny, especially because Tennessee has had more success with experienced transfer quarterbacks than with developing young quarterbacks. The Vols also continue to have questions along the offensive line. Zach and Charlie believe Tennessee should have addressed the position more aggressively and question whether Heupel has been too loyal to his coaching staff in areas that have needed improvement. That leads to the larger question: Is Tennessee doing enough to maximize a roster that reportedly costs around $40 million? The guys discuss how the transfer portal and NIL have changed roster construction and why programs spending at that level cannot afford to consistently have major weaknesses. They also discuss Tennessee's lack of consistent offensive edge. Jim Knowles' defense has brought a different level of physicality and intensity to the Vols, but the guys question whether that same edge exists consistently on offense. That doesn't mean Tennessee's season is over. Far from it. The Vols are 5-1, and if they can somehow beat Alabama, they could put themselves in the driver's seat for a College Football Playoff berth. But Tennessee has to improve. Zach and Charlie explain why it is possible to appreciate what Heupel has accomplished while still believing that the Vols' current offensive performance is not good enough. Is Josh Heupel the problem? Does Tennessee need major changes on offense? Should the Vols change their approach to the transfer portal? And can Tennessee still make the playoff with its current quarterback situation? The guys break it all down on the latest Big Orange Podcast. Subscribe to A to Z Sports Tennessee for Tennessee Volunteers football news, analysis, recruiting updates, game reactions and Big Orange Podcast episodes throughout the 2026 season. 00:00 Tennessee is 5-1 so why are fans upset? 01:00 The Tennessee fanbase is split 02:30 Is 5-1 good enough? 04:00 Josh Heupel deserves credit 05:30 Tennessee's offense is still a problem 07:00 Year 6 of the Heupel era 08:30 Heupel's biggest roster mistake 10:30 Tennessee's $40 million roster 12:00 The quarterback situation 13:30 Should Tennessee have added a veteran QB? 15:00 Tennessee's transfer portal approach 16:30 The offensive line problem 18:00 Tennessee needs more of an edge 19:30 Jim Knowles changed the defense 20:30 Can Tennessee still make the playoff? 21:30 Alabama changes everything 22:30 What Tennessee needs to fix 23:30 The Vols' ceiling Make A to Z Sports your preferred source on Google: Play A to Z Sports Daily Games: For more VOLS coverage: Facebook: Twitter: Instagram: TikTok: #TennesseeVols #TennesseeFootball #Vols #JoshHeupel #BigOrangePodcast

After Tennessee barely escaped Arkansas, can the Vols really beat Alabama? Former Tennessee quarterback Jonathan Crompton thinks they can—but his prediction depends heavily on defense and special teams. Charlie Burris and Crompton look ahead to Alabama’s trip to Neyland Stadium after Tennessee’s 24-17 win in Fayetteville. The Vols improved to 5-1, but their offensive inconsistency raises a major question: where will enough points come from against the Crimson Tide? Crompton explains why Jim Knowles’ changing defensive looks, pressure packages and ability to adjust could make the matchup difficult for Alabama quarterback Keelon Russell. He expects an intriguing battle between Tennessee’s defense and Alabama’s offense. The guys also discuss why Tennessee’s offense needs to adjust more effectively during games rather than repeatedly running into unfavorable defensive looks. Crompton’s prediction: Tennessee can win through defensive takeaways, special teams plays and the advantage of being in a close game late at Neyland Stadium. This discussion was recorded during the Georgia-Alabama game, before that game’s final result. Subscribe to A to Z Sports Tennessee Volunteers for Vols analysis, the Big Orange Podcast and live postgame reaction after every Tennessee game. #TennesseeFootball #Vols #TennesseeAlabama #JimKnowles Make A to Z Sports your preferred source on Google: Play A to Z Sports Daily Games: For more VOLS coverage: Facebook: Twitter: Instagram: TikTok: #tennesseevols #tennesseevolunteers #secfootball