The Tennessee Volunteers will host the East Tennessee State Buccaneers in Week 2 of the 2025 regular season at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, TN. The game is scheduled for Saturday, September 6, 2025, at 3:30 PM and will be broadcasted on the SEC Network. Both teams aim to establish early momentum in the season, with the Volunteers having already secured a win against Syracuse.
East Tennessee State Buccaneers enter this matchup with a 0-1 record from last season, having lost their season opener to Appalachian State 38-10. The Buccaneers showed strength in rushing with 183 yards, yet struggled in the passing game with only 122 yards. They remain independent, unaffiliated with any conference, and will be looking to improve upon their previous road performance.
Tennessee Volunteers come into the game ranked #22 in the AP poll and #17 in the Coaches Poll. They began their season with a strong 45-26 victory over Syracuse at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. With a dominant rushing attack totaling 248 yards and effective passing, Tennessee looks to continue their winning streak at home.
Tennessee vs East Tennessee State At a Glance
- Game Week: Week 2 of the 2025 Regular Season
- Venue: Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, TN — Outdoor Field
- Game Time: Saturday, September 6, 2025 at 3:30 PM (Afternoon Game)
- TV Broadcast: SEC Channel
- Tennessee Volunteers Ranking: #22 in AP Poll, #17 in Coaches Poll
- Point Spread: Tennessee -42.5 (-110), East Tennessee State +42.5 (-110)
Tennessee Volunteers: Vols Aim to Maintain Momentum
Offensive Overview
The Tennessee Volunteers have started the 2025 season on a strong note with a high-powered offense. In their opening game, they managed to score 45 points, reflecting their capability to put numbers on the board efficiently.
With 247 passing yards and 248 rushing yards against Syracuse, Tennessee showcased a balanced offensive approach. The Volunteers’ ability to gain first downs consistently, ranking 20th with 21 first downs, demonstrates their proficiency in maintaining drives.
Defensive Strength
Tennessee’s defense has also made a significant impact, allowing 26 points against Syracuse. Ranking 19th in points allowed, the Volunteers’ defense is a key component of their success.
Furthermore, their defense showed its strength by ranking in the top three for sacks, interceptions, and fumbles recovered, underscoring a disruptive presence on the field.
Star Players
Quarterback Joey Aguilar has been pivotal, throwing for 247 yards and securing three touchdown passes. This performance places him at the top of his team’s rankings.
On the ground, running back Star Thomas made a notable contribution with 92 rushing yards. His performance in the rushing game has been crucial for Tennessee’s balanced offensive attack.
Upcoming Challenges
Looking ahead, Tennessee has a series of home games lined up, starting with East Tennessee State Buccaneers. The Volunteers will aim to capitalize on their home advantage at Neyland Stadium.
Facing tougher opponents like the Georgia Bulldogs, Tennessee’s ability to maintain their offensive and defensive momentum will be tested. These games will be critical in determining their standing as the season progresses.
Betting Trends
- SU All Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
- ATS All Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
- O/U All Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU as Favorite: 1-0 (100.0%)
- ATS as Favorite: 1-0 (100.0%)
- O/U Totals ≥ 50: 1-0 (100.0%)
East Tennessee State Buccaneers: A Glimpse into Their Upcoming Game
Offensive Struggles
The East Tennessee State Buccaneers have had a challenging start offensively this season. With a rank of 133rd in points scored, they are averaging just 10 points per game. Their passing game hasn’t been much better, sitting at 187th with 122 passing yards.
Rushing yards provide a slight silver lining, as they rank 152nd with 183 yards. However, their 114th rank in first downs suggests struggles in sustaining drives. Improvement in these areas will be crucial for future success.
Defensive Woes
Defensively, the Buccaneers are allowing 38 points per game, placing them 12th overall. This is compounded by their inability to pressure opposing quarterbacks, with zero sacks recorded so far. Turnovers have been scarce, with no interceptions or fumbles recovered, ranking them 1st and 16th, respectively.
For the Buccaneers to turn their season around, their defense will need to step up significantly. Creating pressure and forcing turnovers could be a game-changer for this struggling unit.
Key Players to Watch
Jaylen King, despite being a notable quarterback, struggled in the opening game with 122 passing yards and no touchdowns. The lack of interceptions is a positive takeaway, indicating safe play. Running back Devontae Houston showed potential with 126 rushing yards and a touchdown.
On the receiving end, tight end Cameron Lewis led with three receptions and 47 receiving yards. His performance could be pivotal in the passing game moving forward. Meanwhile, kicker Ewan Johnson contributed with a field goal and extra point.
Recent Game Overview
The Buccaneers’ recent 38-10 loss to Appalachian State highlighted their offensive and defensive challenges. They were outgained in passing yards but managed to edge out their opponents slightly in rushing yards. Despite this, they failed to capitalize on opportunities, reflected in the first down differential.
This game showcased the need for improvement in both offensive consistency and defensive resilience. Addressing these issues could help in avoiding similar outcomes in upcoming games.
Betting Trends
- East Tennessee State has not covered the spread in their last game.
- The Buccaneers’ games have hit the under in points scored.
- They have struggled in road games, as seen in their recent performance.
Tennessee vs East Tennessee State Prediction: Over 56.5
The Tennessee Volunteers’ offense has been impressive, scoring 45 points in their first game of the season. Their ability to accumulate yards, both passing and rushing, ranks them among the top teams in the nation. Facing East Tennessee State, a team that struggled defensively last season, the Volunteers are likely to continue their high-scoring trend.
East Tennessee State’s defense allowed 38 points per game last season, a statistic that is concerning when facing a ranked team like Tennessee. Given their inability to pressure quarterbacks and force turnovers, it’s likely they will concede a significant number of points. This defensive struggle will contribute to a high total score in this matchup.
Tennessee’s defense also showed vulnerabilities last season, particularly in the postseason against high-caliber opponents. While East Tennessee State may not pose the same threat, they could still put some points on the board given Tennessee’s previous defensive lapses. This further supports the likelihood of a game that surpasses the set total.
Considering Tennessee’s offensive prowess and East Tennessee State’s defensive struggles, the over looks like the favorable play here. Expect a high-scoring affair with Tennessee comfortably leading the scoreboard.
- Tennessee vs East Tennessee State Prediction: Over 56.5
- Tennessee vs East Tennessee State Score: Tennessee 49 – East Tennessee State 14
