Senior Staff Writer/Editor/Host
The bracket is out, and matchups have been finalized. No, I haven’t messed up and linked to a March Madness article—I’m talking about the College Football Playoff bracket. In the preseason, I said that making the Playoffs should have been the goal for this team. Goal accomplished. So, now what?
Tennessee faces a formidable path to the National Championship game. If the chalk holds, the Vols must go through Ohio State, Oregon, Texas, and Georgia—all in their home state. Conquering that gauntlet would undeniably cement this as the most impressive National Championship run in the modern era. (And no, I don’t want to hear about someone’s path from the 1950s—this is different.)
From here on out, it’s all house money for the Big Orange. The time for conservatism is over. Tennessee has nothing to lose, so throw everything you’ve got at your opponents. For the love of all that is holy, crinkle up the page with all those behind-the-line-of-scrimmage passes and toss it in the nearest trash can. Let your athletes loose. Get Mike Matthews, Squirrel White, and Dont’e Thornton downfield and sling the ball.
No, I’m not saying to go deep on every play—but take your shots. This is the postseason. Your offense shouldn’t need to look to the sidelines before every snap. Play fast. Snap the ball as quickly as possible. Let the defense try to keep up.
I can’t guarantee that this aggressive mindset will lead you to the promised land, but it’s the best shot you’ve got. After all, this is house money—so play like it. Now’s the time to double down, lean into your strengths, and let your playmakers shine.
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