Not just that, but our highly touted OL underperformed egregiously. Which set up our QB — hardly the most resourceful field general, even under the best of circumstances — for another turnover-fest meltdown.
But hold on.
Our OL was going up against probably the best DL in college football. With no spring practice. Limited fall practice, due to Covid. Weeks of building cohesion, understanding assignments and technique better, and building on that…
Lost.
I think the DL has a huge advantage in such a situation. They are attacking. The OL is protecting, executing blocking schemes.
I cite as evidence the surprising effectiveness of our D in the first half, stuffing them on 4th and short twice. Which was awesome. Especially the goal line stand to end the half. And we get the ball first to start the second. Up by 4! Good times on ol’ Rocky Top.
Ugh.
Don’t give up on this guy yet. He’s dealt with nothing but strange circumstances since he took the job. I actually think he’s handling them pretty well so far.
But that second half has left a pretty awful taste…