BOWL LOSS CREATES MORE CONCERNS FOR TENNESSEE AND JOSH HEUPEL

Tennessee’s bowl loss to Illinois raised more red flags than answers heading into next season. Was it just an exhibition with key players missing — or did it expose deeper issues for the Vols?

In this segment from Sports Source Saturday Kickoff, the panel breaks down why the game created real concern, especially on defense. From a lack of physicality and missed tackles to failing to get off the field, Tennessee didn’t look SEC-ready. The discussion also dives into leadership gaps, portal needs, Joey Aguilar’s performance, offensive limitations when the deep ball is taken away, and whether the Vols need upgrades at quarterback and kicker moving forward.

With a new defensive coordinator on the way and major roster questions looming, this loss may say more about Tennessee’s future than fans want to admit.

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