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Tennessee jumps into the fray in ESPN College Football Playoff predictions

Tennessee’s dominant 26–10 victory over Alabama in a nine-overtime thriller has reignited playoff discussions for the Volunteers, who stifled the Crimson Tide with a defensive masterclass. The Vols held Alabama to just 201 total yards and 54 rushing yards while forcing four turnovers, including a scoreless first three quarters, and converted only 2 of 13 third-down attempts.

Tennessee’s offense also thrived, combining a patient ground game with precise play-action and RPO passes to maintain control, despite a costly punt-return fumble. The win—combined with their earlier upset of Auburn—has propelled the Volunteers into ESPN’s latest College Football Playoff rankings at No.

10, with first-year defensive coordinator Jim Knowles leading the charge. Their lone remaining loss looms against South Carolina, but a win there could secure a 10–2 record and a spot in the playoff conversation.

The performance underscored Tennessee’s championship-caliber defense, which has become a cornerstone of their season. With five games left, the question now is whether the Vols can sustain this level of dominance to solidify their playoff hopes.

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