SEC football power rankings after spring portal closes: Did Aggies get better?

Post-SEC Spring Power Rankings: #7 - Tennessee Volunteers

The Volunteers are moving on to a new era: that of Nico Iamaleava. I don’t think it is overselling things to say that he is the type of guy that can potentially lead Tennessee to a national championship if the chips fall right—he is just that good.

Their portal activity hasn’t been anything to write home about, but there are some new additions that could make some noise for the Vols nonetheless. Specifically, I’d have my eye on five-star freshman Mike Mathews as a candidate to emerge on the scene in a big way for the Vols.

What they lose, though, should be of concern for fans of the Big Orange. What was a pretty fantastic defense last year will be without several of their top tacklers, especially in the defensive backfield. Their star, James Pearce, Jr., will still be around, but one man does not a unit make.

I’m cautiously optimistic about the Vols this year. They’re much closer to the top six than they are to the bottom nine, but given some of the top-line talent in this conference, I can’t really justify having them much higher than where they are right here.

Games against Alabama and UGA will be tough sledding, but the Vols could make some hay against the rest of the schedule. A key game to watch will be the week two game in Charlotte against NC State.