Team Overview:
The Tennessee Volunteers have had a strong run over the past three seasons, boasting a 25-11 straight-up (SU) record and a 20-16 record against the spread (ATS). Their games have tended to be higher-scoring, with an OVER/UNDER record of 21-15. With a mix of experienced players and new talent, the Vols are set for another exciting season in 2024.
Last Three Seasons Recap:
- 2021 Season:
- Record: 7-6 (SU), 6-7 (ATS)
- Notable Games:
- Win against Missouri (62-24): Dominant road victory with the game going OVER the total.
- Loss to Purdue (45-48): A high-scoring bowl game loss where Tennessee failed to cover as favorites.
- Betting Insights: The Vols had several high-scoring games, often hitting the OVER. They struggled to cover large spreads, particularly as heavy favorites.
- 2022 Season:
- Record: 11-2 (SU), 9-4 (ATS)
- Notable Games:
- Win against Alabama (52-49): A thrilling upset win where Tennessee covered as underdogs and the game went OVER.
- Loss to South Carolina (38-63): A surprising defeat where the Vols failed to cover and the game went OVER.
- Betting Insights: Tennessee performed well ATS, especially as underdogs. The OVER was frequently hit, reflecting their potent offense and occasionally vulnerable defense.
- 2023 Season:
- Record: 7-3 (SU), 5-5 (ATS)
- Notable Games:
- Win against Virginia (49-13): A strong start to the season with the Vols covering as heavy favorites.
- Loss to Georgia (10-38): A tough loss where they failed to cover as underdogs.
- Betting Insights: The Vols had a balanced performance against the spread, with several games going OVER, especially in high-scoring matchups.
Key Players:
- Quarterback: Nico Iamaleava is expected to lead the offense, with Gaston Moore, Jake Merklinger, and Navy Shuler providing depth.
- Running Back: Dylan Sampson, Cameron Seldon (probable), DeSean Bishop, and Khalifa Keith form a strong backfield.
- Wide Receiver: Squirrel White, Bru McCoy (probable), Chris Brazzell, and Dont'e Thornton are key targets, with contributions from promising freshmen.
- Tight End: Ethan Davis, Holden Staes, and Miles Kitselman provide options at tight end.
- Kicker: Josh Turbyville, JT Carver, and Max Gilbert will handle the kicking duties.
2024 Schedule Analysis:
The Volunteers' schedule includes several key matchups that will test their mettle.
- Sat, Aug 31 vs. Chattanooga: The season opener should be a favorable matchup.
- Sat, Sep 7 vs. NC State: A challenging non-conference game early in the season.
- Sat, Sep 14 vs. Kent State: Another non-conference game where Tennessee will look to dominate.
- Sat, Sep 21 @ Oklahoma: A significant test on the road against a strong opponent.
- Sat, Oct 5 @ Arkansas: An SEC road game that will be crucial for their standings.
- Sat, Oct 12 vs. Florida: A high-stakes SEC matchup at home.
- Sat, Oct 19 vs. Alabama: A marquee game that will be pivotal for their season.
- Sat, Nov 2 vs. Kentucky: Another important SEC game at home.
- Sat, Nov 9 vs. Mississippi State: A winnable home game against a conference foe.
- Sat, Nov 16 @ Georgia: One of the toughest games of the season on the road.
- Sat, Nov 23 vs. UTEP: A game where the Vols will be heavy favorites.
- Sat, Nov 30 @ Vanderbilt: The regular season finale on the road.
Betting Insights for 2024:
- Favorites: Tennessee has struggled to cover large spreads, making them a riskier bet in such situations. However, they have performed well as underdogs.
- High-Scoring Games: The Vols' games often go OVER the total, particularly in matchups with strong offensive teams. This trend is likely to continue in 2024.
- Key Matchups: Games against Oklahoma, Florida, Alabama, and Georgia will be crucial for betting considerations. Historically, these games have seen varied performances from the Vols.
Season Outlook:
The Tennessee Volunteers are poised for an exciting 2024 season with a balanced mix of experienced players and emerging talent. Key games against Oklahoma, Florida, Alabama, and Georgia will define their season and determine their position in the SEC standings. Bettors should keep an eye on Tennessee's performance in high-stakes games and their ability to cover spreads, especially as underdogs. With a potent offense and a challenging schedule, the Vols are set to provide plenty of thrilling moments this season.
