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Key Vols player is almost certainly going to break a Tennessee record that has stood for almost 100 years

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Zach Ragan | Last updated Oct 14, 2024 11:14 AM ET

The Tennessee Vols' offensive production has been a bit inconsistent at times this season, but that hasn't stopped junior running back Dylan Sampson from getting off to a terrific start in 2024.

Sampson, who is serving as the Vols' lead running back with Jaylen Wright and Jabari Small off to the NFL, has rushed for 699 yards so far in 2024, which tops his total of 604 yards from last season.

The Baton Rouge native has also rushed for an impressive 15 touchdowns in just six games. That means Sampson is on pace for 30 rushing touchdowns in the regular season. I doubt he keeps up that pace, but even if he doesn't, the talented running back will almost certainly break the Tennessee record for rushing touchdowns in a season as long as he stays healthy.

The current UT record for rushing touchdowns in a season is 18, which was set by Gene McEver in 1929 (Reggie Cobb is second on the list with 17 in 1987 and Tony Thompson is third with 16 in 1990).

Sampson should easily break that record this season.

Additionally, Sampson could end up setting the Tennessee record for career rushing touchdowns.

Sampson currently has 28 career touchdowns, which is tied for fourth (with Stanley Morgan) all-time at Tennessee.

McEver has the record with 37 career rushing touchdowns (James Stewart is second with 35 and Josh Dobbs is third with 32).

It may be a "down season" so far for the Vols' offense, but all-time school records are still in danger of falling this fall.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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