Tennessee football offense, Faizon Brandon stumble vs No. 1 Texas | Estes

KNOXVILLE – In a nail-biting matchup before a packed Neyland Stadium crowd, Tennessee's football team fell 17-20 to top-ranked Texas. The Vols came storming back in the final minutes of the game, recovering an onside kick after their first offensive touchdown, but Faizon Brandon's Hail Mary pass in the end zone fell incomplete, ending any chance for a victory.

Strong defense and a punt-return touchdown were not enough for Tennessee to overcome its struggling offense. Texas' defensive line dominated, issuing 10 sacks and preventing Tennessee from establishing any sort of rhythm on the ground. The Vols' usually explosive rushing attack was about as productive as ever, averaging just 1.5 yards per carry and 2.2 yards per play.

Texas quarterback Arch Manning completed 14 of his 19 passes for 201 yards, leading an eight-play touchdown drive in the fourth quarter to seal the game. Freshman quarterback Brandon, who had earlier injured his shoulder, returned midway through the game but his performance was inconsistent. Texas' Colin Simmons was a constant thorn in Tennessee's side, racking up five sacks and even committing a comical, yet unsportsmanlike, penalty in the second quarter.