The Vols Can STILL Make The Playoff...

The Tennessee Vols can still make the College Football Playoff, and the reason might be the best defense Josh Heupel has had during his time in Knoxville.Charlie Burris and Zach Ragan recalibrate their expectations for Tennessee after the Vols' win over Auburn and explain why this team still has a legitimate path to the playoff.The biggest reason for optimism is Jim Knowles' defense.Tennessee's defense has been outstanding through the first part of the season, holding Texas to only 20 points and continuing to make big plays against Auburn. Charlie and Zach believe the defense is good enough to beat virtually anyone on Tennessee's schedule when the unit is playing at its best.The question is whether the offense can do enough.Tennessee doesn't necessarily need to become an elite offense. The Vols may simply need average quarterback play, a functional offensive line and enough explosive plays from their running backs and receivers to complement the defense.That is what makes the quarterback situation so important.With George McIntyre potentially taking over for Faizon Brandon, Tennessee needs to figure out whether McIntyre can provide the level of play necessary to take advantage of an elite defense.Charlie and Zach also discuss whether Faizon Brandon could eventually return to the starting lineup and what Tennessee needs from either quarterback moving forward.The offensive line is another major variable.Tennessee played better up front after McIntyre entered the Auburn game, but injuries and depth remain concerns. If the Vols can keep the offensive line healthy and find a quarterback who can consistently hit the throws that are available, the ceiling for this team remains very high. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices