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Three takeaways from the Vols Orange and White Game

By Stetson Marlin

KNOXVILLE, TN - SEPTEMBER 09: Tennessee Volunteers fans cheer during the first half of the game against the Indiana State Sycamores at Neyland Stadium on September 9, 2017 in Knoxville, Tennessee. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
KNOXVILLE, TN - SEPTEMBER 09: Tennessee Volunteers fans cheer during the first half of the game against the Indiana State Sycamores at Neyland Stadium on September 9, 2017 in Knoxville, Tennessee. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /
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LEXINGTON, KY – OCTOBER 28: Daniel Bituli /

2. Defense struggled at times

One of many questions throughout the spring was the defense, and it will continue to be questioned. The defense is continuing to get its kinks worked out, and continue to move people around to see where they fit best.

The defense was able to force a few turnovers on Saturday, including an interception by Theo Jackson and a fumble recovery later in the game by the White team. Both Quarte Sapp and Nigel Warrior showed out defensively as they finished with 11 and eight tackles respectively.

The defense didn’t looked the best on Saturday, but I wouldn’t be too worried about that at this moment. The defense was without two of its best players in Darrin Kirkland Jr. and Daniel Bituli. Both players will likely start at the linebacker position this fall, but weren’t able to participate in the Orange and White Game due to injury. They both have looked very good while on Rocky Top whenever they are healthy, and will both add some swagger to the Volunteer defense once they get back.

The defense will also be getting in a few good 2018 recruits who will have a great chance to come in and compete for a starting spot. Alontae Taylor, who was an early enrollee could make some noise as a defensive back. JJ Peterson, Brant Lawless, and Emmit Gooden will all have a great chance to come in and compete, so it will be interesting to see if any of those players can get a starting role.

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