Tennessee vs. Virginia Short Report | Sep 2, 2023
Nissan Stadium
Nashville, TN
Sep 2, 2023
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Game Recap
The Tennessee Volunteers opened their 2023 season with a commanding 49-13 victory over the Virginia Cavaliers on September 2. Tennessee's quarterback, Joe Milton III, had an impressive outing, as he threw for 201 yards and two touchdowns while also rushing for 33 yards and two additional scores. This performance highlighted his dual-threat capabilities and leadership. The Volunteers' defense was dominant, recording seven sacks and stifling the Cavaliers' offense throughout the game.
Virginia managed to find the end zone only once, with running back Perris Jones breaking free for a 17-yard touchdown run. However, the Cavaliers' efforts were overshadowed by Tennessee's relentless offense, which amassed a total of 499 yards on the day. Special teams also contributed significantly, with Dee Williams providing a spark with a 55-yard punt return. The Volunteers' balanced attack and suffocating defense set the tone early, ensuring a decisive win in their season opener.
Key Plays:
Joe Milton III (Tennessee Volunteers)
Joe Milton III connected with Dylan Sampson for a 9-yard touchdown pass, establishing Tennessee's early momentum and an initial 7-0 lead. This play set the tone for Milton's stellar performance.
Dylan Sampson (Tennessee Volunteers)
Dylan Sampson extended Tennessee's lead with a 3-yard rushing touchdown, demonstrating the Volunteers' ability to finish drives effectively.
Will Bettridge (Virginia Cavaliers)
Will Bettridge put Virginia on the scoreboard with a 30-yard field goal, attempting to gain some traction against Tennessee's aggressive defense.
Joe Milton III (Tennessee Volunteers)
Joe Milton III capped off a dominant first half for Tennessee with a 1-yard rushing touchdown, increasing the lead to 21-3 at halftime.
Joe Milton III (Tennessee Volunteers)
Milton continued his impressive performance with another 1-yard rushing touchdown early in the third quarter, making the score 28-3 and demoralizing Virginia's defense.
Dylan Sampson (Tennessee Volunteers)
Sampson added another rushing touchdown from 2 yards out, reflecting Tennessee's dominance on the ground and pushing the lead to 35-3.
James Pearce Jr. (Tennessee Volunteers)
James Pearce Jr. sacked Virginia's Tony Muskett for a 7-yard loss, halting a drive and maintaining Tennessee's defensive pressure.
Joe Milton III (Tennessee Volunteers)
Milton found Jacob Warren for an 11-yard touchdown pass, further extending Tennessee's commanding lead to 42-10 and showcasing his precise passing.
Dylan Sampson (Tennessee Volunteers)
Dylan Sampson capped off the Volunteers' scoring with a 3-yard rushing touchdown, solidifying a dominant offensive performance.
Will Bettridge (Virginia Cavaliers)
Virginia's Will Bettridge kicked a 40-yard field goal late in the game, making the final score 49-13 and salvaging some points for the Cavaliers.
Standout Players:
Joe Milton III (Tennessee Volunteers, QB)
Joe Milton III impressed with 201 passing yards and two touchdowns, supplemented by 33 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns. His dual-threat performance was instrumental in leading Tennessee's potent offense and keeping the Cavaliers' defense off balance.
Dylan Sampson (Tennessee Volunteers, RB)
Dylan Sampson was a reliable weapon for the Volunteers, rushing for 52 yards and three touchdowns. In addition, he caught a touchdown pass, showcasing his versatility and relentless drive to find the end zone.
Jaylen Wright (Tennessee Volunteers, RB)
Jaylen Wright was the leading rusher with 115 yards on 12 carries. His explosive runs provided a significant boost to the Volunteers' ground game and consistently moved the chains.
Dee Williams (Tennessee Volunteers, DB)
Dee Williams electrified the crowd with 105 punt return yards on three returns, including a spectacular 55-yard return. His efforts provided excellent field position and contributed to the Volunteers' offensive success.
James Pearce Jr. (Tennessee Volunteers, DL)
James Pearce Jr. was a force on the defensive line, recording two sacks. His relentless pressure on the quarterback disrupted Virginia's passing game and stymied their offensive drives.
Perris Jones (Virginia Cavaliers, RB)
Perris Jones was a bright spot for the Cavaliers, rushing for 39 yards and scoring their only touchdown. His 17-yard touchdown run in the third quarter provided a glimpse of Virginia's potential on offense.
Will Bettridge (Virginia Cavaliers, K)
Will Bettridge kept Virginia's hopes alive with two successful field goals from 30 and 40 yards out. His consistency in special teams play offered the Cavaliers some points despite their offensive struggles.
References:
Team
1
2
3
4
T
Tennessee Volunteers
7
14
14
14
49
Virginia Cavaliers
0
3
7
3
13
