Tennessee Football Sets Offensive Records in 72-17 ETSU Home Opener

The Tennessee Volunteers delivered a commanding performance in their 72-17 home opener victory against East Tennessee State (ETSU) at Neyland Stadium, setting a modern-era record with 48 first-half points and totaling 717 yards of offense. Quarterback Joey Aguilar excelled with 23 completions on 31 attempts for 288 yards and two touchdowns, including a 53-yard deep pass to Mike Matthews. Running back Star Thomas contributed three touchdowns, and Tennessee's defense dominated, not allowing a first down until the second quarter despite injuries in the secondary. ETSU, led by former Michigan and Iowa quarterback Cade McNamara, was outmatched, with Tennessee covering the 40.5-point spread easily. The Volunteers are preparing for a tougher challenge next week as they host No. 4 Georgia in their SEC opener. Injuries on Tennessee’s defense have led to younger players seeing significant playing time as the team builds depth ahead of coming conference games.