DraftKings · as of July 10, 2026
Tennessee defeated Syracuse 45–26 to secure a comfortable win. Tennessee covered by 5.5; Game went Over by 17.5. The market closed at Tennessee -13.5 and the Blue Chip model made it Tennessee -19.6 - a gap of 6.1 points toward Tennessee, of which 6.1 points were beyond the model's measured factors. That was an information gap - the market pricing something the model does not carry - rather than a measured edge.
Syracuse managed only 377 total yards and quarterback Steve Angeli was sacked five times, indicating the offensive line struggled against Tennessee's pass rush. This could be a concern against UConn if the line doesn't improve.
Angeli completed 23 of 40 passes for 247 yards with one touchdown and one interception. While he showed some promise, the interception and five sacks suggest he needs to improve decision-making and pocket awareness.
Running back Yasin Willis rushed for 91 yards and three touchdowns, providing a reliable ground game. His performance could be key for Syracuse's offense moving forward, especially if the passing game remains inconsistent.
Syracuse cut the lead to 38-26 in the fourth quarter but failed on the conversion attempt, and couldn't complete the comeback. This shows the team has fight but needs to execute better in critical moments.
After facing a ranked Tennessee team, Syracuse has upcoming games against UConn, Clemson, Notre Dame, and Miami. The loss to Tennessee may have exposed weaknesses that need to be addressed quickly to avoid a losing streak.
Joey Aguilar threw for 247 yards and 3 touchdowns in his first game with Tennessee, showing composure and effectiveness in the offense.
Star Thomas (92 yards), DeSean Bishop, and Peyton Lewis each contributed rushing touchdowns, giving the Volunteers a versatile ground attack.
Tennessee's defense sacked Syracuse quarterback Steve Angeli five times and forced an interception, limiting the Orange's offensive rhythm.
True freshman offensive lineman David Sanders Jr. was inactive due to an undisclosed injury, which could impact depth in upcoming games.
Tennessee hosts East Tennessee State on Sept. 6, a favorable matchup to build on the season-opening win and address areas needing improvement.
This game was played indoors at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in a climate-controlled environment. Weather was not a factor.
Indoor, climate controlled
~72°F
Mercedes-Benz Stadium is a domed venue. Wind, precipitation and temperature are not factors in this game.
| Measure | SyracuseAway | TennesseeHome |
|---|---|---|
| This week | 781 miles | 154 miles |
| Last week | Bye week | Bye week |
| Season total | 781 miles | 154 miles |
| Body clock | 12:00 | 12:00 |
| Rest | Season opener | Season opener |
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