The Vols have had some big injuries. Pig Howard is suspended. Howard has led the Vols in receiving with 54 and 44 receptions in 2014 and 2013, respectively. He accounted for 1,006 receiving yards in that span, and has also scored a pair of rushing touchdowns.

Senior safety LaDarrell McNeil it out. McNeil, a senior starter at safety, finished fourth on the team in tackles last season with 76. He has 31 career starts, 22 straight before this injury.

McNeil is the Vols third likely starter to be declared out for a significant portion of time. Offensive lineman Marcus Jackson and defensive back Rashaan Gaulden are expected to miss the entire season. A sophomore, Gaulden was working as the starting nickel back. That is an important position because the Volunteers play more nickel defense against spread offenses than their base 4-3 package.

Tennessee is facing the burden of high expectations for the first time in a long time. As we tell you it is so much easier to be the hunter than the hunted and the proof will come in conference play, not here. With Oklahoma on tap next week, the Vols will be happy to escape.

The Vols have gone from having four returning starters to only two set spots along the line.