The experts have spoken. The Vols are out. Bama is in.

Here’s a breakdown of the most impactful games on November 16, 2024, for Tennessee’s playoff chances with an emphasis on the Tennessee – UGA game:

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**1. Tennessee at Georgia** 

   – **Network**: ABC (6:30 pm CT) 

   – **Sirius/XM**: Home 84 / Away 85 

   – **Why it matters**:  ESPN analysts are already speculating that Alabama will leapfrog Tennessee in the rankings if the Vols stumble.

Lets go to last week’s game analysis

Against Mississippi State, Vols QB Nico went down with a mysterious “upper body” injury late in the first half, the pressure was on, and the Vols’ run game rose to the occasion. Dylan Sampson led a potent rushing attack. The OL took charge, pounding the Bulldogs’ holes into submission. This allowed Tennessee to take complete control of the ballgame. As per usual, Tennessee’s defense was swarming and relentless. They shut down State’s offense in crucial moments. Frankly, I keep waiting for the defense to slip but they seem to WGWTFA every series.

ALERT: The wolves are knocking at the door. The media desperately wants Tennessee to stumble this Saturday. The upcoming matchup at Sanford Stadium isn’t just another game; it’s a must-win with playoff implications. A victory would solidify the Vols’ place in the College Football Playoff conversation and strengthen their hold on the SEC lead.

– **Analysis**: Georgia comes into this showdown with something to prove. After an embarrassing loss to Ole Miss, the Bulldogs’ impressive SEC winning streak (to teams not named Alabama) was snapped. They are feeling the pressure to reassert themselves as an elite force in the SEC.

The Tennessee-Georgia showdown has all the makings of a grudge match, especially after Georgia’s shocking 22-10 loss to Ole Miss last week. Quarterback Carson Beck (AKA Michelle Rapinoe’s doppelganger) seemingly without a care in the world was caught smiling on the sideline during the games final moments, while a Georgia player even joined Ole Miss fans celebrating on the field—a sight that didn’t sit well with Georgia fans.

For Georgia, this game is about redemption. They’re still in the playoff hunt and need to prove their loss was just a fluke. Beck and the Bulldogs’ strong defense want to silence critics, restore their reputation, and remind everyone why they’re a dynasty.

Tennessee, meanwhile, sees a golden opportunity. A win would disrupt Georgia’s season and send a message to the entire SEC—as well as telling ESPN, Herbstreit, and Fowler to “get bent”.

**2. Oregon at Wisconsin** 

   – **Network**: NBC (6:30 pm CT) 

   – **Sirius/XM**: Home 137 / Away 136 

   – **Impact**: Oregon is a leading playoff contender from the Pac-12, and a loss could shake up the playoff picture, opening doors for other SEC teams.

   – **Who to root for**: Tennessee fans should root for Wisconsin to pull an upset, as an Oregon loss could make room in the top four.

**3. Texas at Arkansas** 

   – **Network**: ABC (11:00 am CT) 

   – **Sirius/XM**: Home 81 / Away 84 

   – **Impact**: Texas remains a threat in the playoff race. An Arkansas win would reduce Texas’s playoff hopes, indirectly boosting Tennessee’s chances.

   – **Who to root for**: Tennessee fans should cheer for Arkansas in this one, aiming to knock Texas down a peg in the rankings. Plus an Arkansas win makes the Tennessee loss to Arkansas tastier.

**4. Penn State at Purdue** 

   – **Network**: CBS (2:30 pm CT) 

   – **Sirius/XM**: Home 135 / Away 137 

   – **Impact**: Penn State is vying for a playoff spot, and a loss here could disrupt Big Ten standings. Let’s be perfectly clear. Penn State will not be losing this game. The playoff path for the Nittany Lions is pretty simple. Just keep gobbling up the B1G cupcakes

   – **Who to root for**: A Purdue upset here (see above impact) could eliminate a Big Ten rival in the playoff race, giving Tennessee some breathing room.

**5. Notre Dame vs. Virginia** 

   – **Network**: NBC (2:30 pm CT) 

   – **Sirius/XM**: Home 84 / Away 81 

   – **Impact**: Notre Dame has an outside playoff shot. A loss would make their chances slim, helping Tennessee stay ahead.

   – **Who to root for**: Tennessee fans should root for Virginia to pull the upset, which would narrow the competition for a playoff berth.

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Each of these games will shape Tennessee’s playoff path. If key rivals like Texas, Oregon, and Penn State falter, the Vols’ playoff road gets a bit smoother.