Adam Sparks' Tennessee football midseason grades for each position group

In the second half of the 2026 season, Tennessee football's defense stands out as dominant, while the offense remains inadequate. The Vols, currently 5-1 with a 2-1 SEC record, earned mostly good grades during the first half of the season. As the season progresses, the tests will become more challenging, starting with a rivalry game against No. 7 Alabama on October 17.

The offense earns a C grade, mostly due to its productive rushing team. Under first-year defensive coordinator Jim Knowles, the defense receives an A grade, showing strong performance. Special teams receive a B grade.

Quarterbacks receive a C- grade. Faizon Brandon performed well in nonconference games but struggled in SEC games due to injury. George MacIntyre had a solid first career start against Arkansas, completing 63% of his passes for 1,119 yards, nine touchdowns, and three interceptions. However, the position is in flux as both young quarterbacks are going through growing pains, and the passing game has been limited against SEC defenses.

Running backs earn an A- grade. DeSean Bishop ranks seventh nationally in rushing yards (678) and sixth in yards-after-contact (465). Daune Morris has contributed with 332 yards rushing and five receptions. Although UT ranks 11th in the SEC in passer rating and last in passing offense, Bishop's performances helped keep UT competitive in those games.

The offensive line receives a C grade. UT has the SEC's second-best rushing offense but the second-worst pass protection, allowing 17 sacks. Left tackle David Sanders and right tackle Jesse Perry both perform well in their respective positions, while the interior offensive line has been a weak link, especially before injuries to guards Wendell Moe and Sham Umarov.

Wide receivers are graded C+. Mike Matthews has had a strong season with 22 catches for 396 yards and three touchdowns. Braylon Staley leads the team with 24 catches, but he hasn't been maximized due to quarterback changes and offensive issues. Radarious Jackson and DaSaahn Brame have had limited opportunities as wide receivers.

Tight ends receive a C grade. Ethan Davis contributed to this grade before suffering a season-ending injury. Trent Thomas has one touchdown catch, and DaSaahn Brame has been serviceable as a blocker and relied upon in formations with two tight ends.

The defensive line leads the nation in sacks (25), mostly by defensive linemen (17). UT ranks fourth nationally in tackles-for-loss (48), mostly by defensive linemen (29). Jeremiah Telander contributes as a defensive lineman and linebacker, while Xavier Gilliam is on pace for an All-America season with the highest Pro Football Focus grade of any interior defensive lineman in the nation.

The secondary benefits from UT's nation-leading pass rush and holds its own in opponents' pass rating. Cornerback Ty Redmond leads the team with five pass breakups and 24 tackles, while Cornerback Kayin Lee and nickelback Tevis Metcalf have one interception each. Qua Moss has been active as a nickelback with 21 tackles, including two for loss. Safeties rank 10th nationally in pass coverage and second in pass defense in the SEC, protecting the back end from big plays.