How Jim Knowles made Tennessee's defense CFP-caliber almost overnight
CBS Sports • • sports
Key Points:
- Tennessee's defense, under new coordinator Jim Knowles, has shown rapid improvement, exemplified by holding No. 6 Alabama to just 201 total yards and forcing multiple turnovers in a 26-10 victory.
- The Volunteers' defense ranks 19th nationally in scoring defense and 25th in yards allowed per game, marking a significant improvement from the previous season.
- Key contributions have come from Penn State transfers familiar with Knowles' system, including defensive tackle Xavier Gilliam, linebacker Amare Campbell, and safety Dejuan Lane, as well as coaches Andrew Jackson and Anthony Poindexter.
- Tennessee's defense has notably improved on critical downs, reducing opponent third-down conversion rates from 43.2% last year to under 35% this season, further demonstrated by limiting Alabama to just 16.7% on third downs in the recent game.
- This defensive resurgence has helped Tennessee maintain a strong 6-1 record despite offensive challenges, positioning them as contenders for the College Football Playoff.
