Tennessee's cracks show as CFP return hopes fade in frustrating loss to Oklahoma

Tennessee Volunteers' football team experienced a setback with a 33-27 loss to No. 18 Oklahoma, revealing deeper issues beyond the mid-season transfer of star quarterback Nico Iamaleava. Despite a strong start, Tennessee's offense and defense have regressed from last season's College Football Playoff run, with their rushing game managing only 63 net yards on 1.8 yards per carry against the Sooners. The defense, weakened by key departures to the NFL, allowed Oklahoma to score over 30 points for the first time in their last 13 SEC games.

Quarterback Joey Aguilar, who transferred from Appalachian State and UCLA, threw for 393 yards and three touchdowns but also recorded two interceptions and a costly strip-sack that resulted in a touchdown for Oklahoma. Tennessee's reliance on Aguilar's high-risk playing style has been evident, as the team struggles against top opponents like Georgia and Alabama, suffering narrow losses due to turnovers and defensive lapses.

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