Tennessee vs. Vanderbilt: The Rivalry

No. 19 Tennessee will host No. 14 Vanderbilt this Saturday, marking their 120th face-off. Both teams are vying to enhance their playoff standings before the regular season comes to a close.

Although their first encounter was back in 1892, this is the inaugural instance where both teams are ranked within the AP Top 25 at the start of the game. Vanderbilt’s ranking entering this game is particularly noteworthy; it’s their first since 1958 against Tennessee, and they hold a poor 1-3 record in similar matches.

Historically, Vanderbilt has struggled against ranked opponents, having claimed victory only once in their last 42 encounters with Tennessee squads that ranked AP. To further add to their challenges, the Commodores have lost their last six matches against the Volunteers and haven’t secured a win in Knoxville for eight years.

On the other hand, Tennessee has faced its own battles, lacking wins against ranked opponents this season and facing setbacks against lower-tier SEC teams such as Mississippi State and Arkansas.

Key Points

• Significance for Vanderbilt: If they triumph, it could lead to a coveted playoff spot. Moreover, they aim for their first ten-win season, marking a historic achievement.
• Importance for Tennessee: Although out of the playoff race, securing a ninth win would reflect positively on their season.
• Diego Pavia’s Milestone: Currently holding Vanderbilt’s record for most passing touchdowns in a season, he’s only 254 yards shy of becoming the top passer in program history.

Where to Watch

• Date: Saturday, November 29
• Time: 3:30 p.m. ET
• Location: Neyland Stadium, Knoxville, Tennessee
• TV: ESPN | Live Stream: Fubo (Try for free)

Prediction and Picks

Tennessee ranks 14th in total defense, allowing 378.5 yards per game, while Vanderbilt stands at 11th with 353.4 yards allowed. Both squads have been inconsistent, making this matchup unpredictable. In a nutshell, the expectation points toward higher scoring. Pick: Over 64.5 (-115)