Tennessee’s offense took a major hit in the second quarter against Texas A&M when star wide receiver Mike Matthews went down with a lower-body injury.
Matthews had just hauled in a catch and fought through four Aggie defenders before he was finally taken to the turf. On the way to the injury tent, he was unable to put weight on his left leg. Not long after, he was seen using crutches and heading into the locker room, a strong sign his day was over.
The full extent of the injury wasn’t known at the time of writing, but it was the kind of scene that can make Tennessee fans uneasy. Matthews has been one of the Vols’ most reliable weapons this season, emerging as their leading receiver and the offense’s biggest big-play threat. When Tennessee has needed someone to win a matchup, he’s been the guy doing it.
His value goes beyond the passing game, too. Matthews has also been a standout blocker, something that matters plenty for a Tennessee team built around the run. That part of his game doesn’t always grab headlines, but it has been a real asset.
If Matthews can’t return, Braylon Staley and Radarious Jackson would be in line for more chances. Both have the ability to make plays, and their roles could expand quickly if Tennessee has to move on without its top receiver.
It’s another tough injury blow for a Volunteers team that has already taken hits this season, including the loss of Daune Morris and Tyree Weathersby for the year earlier this week. For a team still in the College Football Playoff hunt, losing another key player would be a hard one to absorb.
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An LSU win would do more than just add another ranked victory to the conference ledger. It would strengthen the Tigers' standing as an opponent and help clear some of the clutter in the SEC standings, which is exactly the kind of help Tennessee could use as it tries to keep its own playoff hopes and conference math in order. [Read more 🡒]
Tennessees Defensive Depth Just Took Another Hit At Texas A&M
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The timing is less than ideal with kickoff set for 3 p.m. ET on ESPN, especially for a defense that has already had to absorb multiple season-ending injuries and other players unavailable for this one. For Tennessee, the challenge is no longer just about matching up with the Aggies, but about finding enough healthy bodies inside to hold up for four quarters. [Read more 🡒]