This should be a fun game with two in-state rivals in the Vols vs The Commodores. I really need to ask though, are these teams really rivals? Vanderbilt has finally become relevant with coach Byington this season with a nice 1403 record. Looking into that record though, their best win was against number 66 on Kenpom in Nevada. Vanderbilt doesn’t have many advantages over Tennessee as they will be beaten badly from three point land as the Vols rank number 1 in defending the three. Tennessee is one of the best rebounding teams out there ranking 2nd in adjusted offensive rebounding. They are going to score some points here. I think now at 14-3 the Commodores will be taken seriously. The Vols rank 24th in adjusted offensive efficiency and 4th on defense, while Vandy ranks 51st and 63rd respectively on an easy schedule. Tennessee is the much taller team and will bully Vandy down low. I think that Tennessee has felt that big road loss at Florida last week and will show up this game. Vanderbilt is a paper tiger. Lay the road chalk with the Vols.
Tennessee -6 – 2.5 stars
