Tennessee's defense has opportunity to prove it's championship-worthy vs. Georgia

Tennessee's fate lies in its defense's hands.

With uncertainty at quarterback, the Vols must lean on their defense to snap a seven-game losing streak to CFP No. 12 Georgia (7-2, 5-2 SEC) in Week 12.

The unit appears ready for the task based on Tennessee's first 10 games. The Volunteers rank fifth in FBS in scoring defense (12.6 points per game) and haven't allowed 20 points in a game this season.

But as strong as Tennessee's defense has been, it must have its best game for the Vols to move a win away from clinching a spot in the SEC Championship game for the first time since 2007.

No. 7 Tennessee (8-1, 5-1 SEC) ends the season with games against UTEP (2-8, 2-5 Conference USA) and Vanderbilt (6-4, 3-3 SEC). Per ESPN, it has a 99% chance of beating the Miners and 79% chance of beating the Commodores.

The Vols are one of three SEC teams with one loss in the conference (Texas, Texas A&M). The Longhorns and Aggies play each other in Week 14, meaning Tennessee controls its destiny for a chance to play for a conference title.

Quarterback Nico Iamaleava, who's started every game for Tennessee this season, is uncertain for Saturday after suffering a concussion against Mississippi State in Week 11. Even if Iamaleava is active, the Vols should have a tough time moving the ball against Georgia's defense.

In six SEC games, Tennessee has averaged 24.5 points per game, well below its 63.7 points per game in three non-conference games. Earlier this season, it went three consecutive SEC games without scoring in the first half.

Few teams could withstand those offensive shortcomings, but Tennessee's defense always gives it a chance.

It has a potentially advantageous matchup against Georgia quarterback Carson Beck. He's struggled in recent weeks, going 68-of-112 (60.7%) for 670 yards, two touchdowns and seven interceptions in the Bulldogs' last three games.

Tennessee's front could be the difference in the game should the Vols pull off the upset. Per ESPN Bet, Georgia is a 9.5-point favorite.

Beck has performed poorly under pressure, going 19-of-54 (35.2%) for 256 yards (4.7 yards per attempt), three touchdowns and five interceptions. Those numbers could be worse, as PFF credits Beck with 10 turnover-worthy plays in those situations.

Tennessee has the individual pieces to accentuate Beck's worst traits.

Vols edge-rusher James Pearce Jr. could be a potential top-10 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft and leads Tennessee with 42 total pressures, including 5.5 sacks. 

Jermod McCoy is a lockdown corner, allowing 21 completions on 44 targets (47.7%) for 226 yards, one touchdown, two interceptions and six pass breakups, per Pro Football Focus.

The defense has carried the Vols throughout SEC play. With the biggest game of their season (so far) looming, the unit can't afford a letdown when Tennessee needs it the most.