As Tennessee prepared for its highly anticipated College Football Playoff matchup against Ohio State, the absence of one of its most dynamic players, running back Dylan Sampson, loomed large. The Vols entered the game with hopes of advancing to the national championship, but the loss of Sampson, their star rusher, added a significant challenge to an already tough contest.
Here’s everything we know about Dylan Sampson’s injury, how it impacted Tennessee’s performance, and what it means for the program moving forward.
Sampson sustained an injury during the SEC Championship Game against Georgia. In the second quarter of that contest, Sampson took a hard hit while fighting for extra yards on a screen pass. He limped off the field and did not return, sparking concerns about his availability for the College Football Playoff.
Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel remained tight-lipped about Sampson’s status in the weeks leading up to the playoff game, citing team policy on injury updates. However, sources close to the program confirmed that the injury was related to his lower leg, with speculation pointing to a sprained ankle.
Despite aggressive rehabilitation efforts, Sampson was officially ruled out just days before the game, leaving Tennessee without one of its most explosive offensive weapons.
Dylan Sampson’s absence was a significant blow to Tennessee’s offensive game plan. As the Vols’ leading rusher, Sampson amassed over 1,200 yards and 12 touchdowns during the regular season. His ability to break tackles, accelerate through gaps, and contribute in the passing game made him a constant threat to opposing defenses.
Sampson was also critical in Tennessee’s ability to control the tempo of games. His combination of speed and physicality allowed the Vols to sustain drives and keep their high-powered offense on the field. Without him, Tennessee was forced to rely on a committee of less experienced running backs, including Jaylen Wright and Jabari Small.
While both Wright and Small are talented players, neither possesses Sampson’s unique skill set or game-changing potential. Ohio State’s defense capitalized on this, focusing its attention on Tennessee’s passing attack and limiting the Vols’ ability to establish a balanced offensive approach.
In the absence of Dylan Sampson, quarterback Nico Iamaleava shouldered an even heavier load. The freshman phenom, known for his big arm and poise, attempted to carry the offense through the air. However, Ohio State’s defense, ranked among the best in the nation, was well-prepared.
Without the threat of Sampson’s running ability, Ohio State’s defensive line was able to pin its ears back and apply consistent pressure on Iamaleava. The Buckeyes recorded multiple sacks and forced the Vols into several third-and-long situations, which stymied their offensive rhythm.
Additionally, Tennessee struggled in short-yardage situations, an area where Sampson’s physicality often made the difference during the regular season. The inability to convert key downs further limited the Vols’ ability to sustain drives and put points on the board.
While Sampson’s absence was a major storyline in Tennessee’s loss to Ohio State, the star running back is expected to make a full recovery. According to sources within the program, the injury is not considered severe, and Sampson is likely to be fully healthy in time for spring practices.
For Tennessee, the focus now shifts to regrouping and preparing for next season. With Sampson expected to return, along with a core group of talented players led by Iamaleava, the Vols remain a team to watch in the SEC and beyond.
Dylan Sampson’s injury served as a harsh reminder of the impact a single player can have on a team’s fortunes. His absence against Ohio State highlighted the importance of depth and adaptability in high-stakes games.
While Tennessee’s playoff run came to an end, the program has much to be proud of, including a bright future under Josh Heupel’s leadership. And with Sampson poised to return to the field, the Vols will be eager to make another run at the College Football Playoff next season—this time with their star running back leading the charge.