The Tennessee Volunteers made a statement on Saturday, September 14, 2024, with a historic 71-0 win over Kent State at Neyland Stadium. This victory marked their third consecutive non-conference game and their last before entering SEC play. The Vols’ impressive performance sets the pace for their season, showcasing their strength on both offense and defense.
Record-Breaking Offense
Tennessee’s offense was unstoppable, totaling a school-record 740 yards, with 456 yards rushing and 284 yards passing ¹. The Vols’ 71 points also set a school record for the modern era, surpassing the 70 points scored against ULM on September 23, 2000 Quarterback Nico Iamaleava turned in another strong performance, completing 10-of-16 passes for 173 yards and one touchdown.
Stout Defense
The Volunteers’ defense was equally impressive, pitching their second shutout of the season and extending their streak to 16 consecutive quarters without allowing an offensive touchdown ¹. This defensive dominance has Tennessee fans excited for the challenges ahead in SEC play.
Looking Ahead
As Tennessee prepares to face Oklahoma in their SEC opener, this win over Kent State serves as a confidence booster. With their starters expected to rest in the second half, the Vols were able to give their backups valuable playing time, developing depth for the future. Coach Josh Heupel will look to carry this momentum into the SEC schedule, where Tennessee will face tougher opponents.