Pre-Season SEC Power Rankings

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Apr 12, 2014; Knoxville, TN, USA; Tennessee Volunteers linebacker A.J. Johnson (45) dances on the field after the spring game at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports

11. Tennessee

Last Season: 5-7 (2-6)

The Good: Much like Kentucky, the brightest spot on the Tennessee roster involves the future more than the present. That said, the Vols have a better collection of talent today than the rival Wildcats, particularly at the skill positions on offense. The secondary is also very talented, and AJ Johnson is one of the best inside linebackers in the SEC.

The Bad: It is very difficult to rebuild a football program when you have to completely replace the offensive and defensive lines. Tennessee must find five new starters on the O-Line, and four on the defensive front. They’re the only team in the nation with that task.

The Ugly: Tennessee has not had a winning season since Lane Kiffin was the head coach. Derek Dooley led the Vols to six wins in 2010, but Tennessee has been stuck on five victories for three years running.

Position-By-Position Ranking (Out of 14 SEC Teams)

Quarterbacks – 9th

Running Backs – 9th

Wide Receivers – 5th

Tight Ends – 9th

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