Glenn Schumann (DC) – Though the Bulldogs’ schedule has not presented any immediate threats, Schumann’s defense has looked unstoppable, allowing just 13 points through the first two weeks. His defense will certainly be tested this weekend against a Volunteers offense that scored 45 points against Fran Brown and the Orange in week one. While a lot of pressure will be on Bobo and Stockton to perform on the road, Schumann will have to have his unit ready to go when Heupel looks to light up the Tennessee sky.

Nate Frazier (RB #3) – When playing on the road in the SEC, establishing a run game is essential for offensive success. The light start on the schedule has held Frazier back from beginning his sophomore season, but this matchup with Tennessee will force him to be used in critical situations. Frazier showed elite flashes last season behind Etienne, but he will likely be fully unleashed in Neyland.

Zachariah Branch ( WR #1) – The transfer from USC took Athens by storm with his performance against Marshall, scoring a 47 yard touchdown en route to a Bulldogs’ victory. Branch was less productive in the win over Austin Peay with 17 receiving yards on three receptions. He will need to be a reliable weapon for Stockon as he navigates the sounds of Neyland in his first SEC road game.

Gunner Stockton (QB #14) – Stockton will be entering his first true road start as the new starting quarterback for the Bulldogs. In last week’s win over Austin Peay, he was limited to 227 yards through the air. Stockton’s running ability will be another factor for the Volunteers’ defense to keep an eye on, so look for a few breakout runs from Georgia’s dual-threat quarterback.

CJ Allen (LB #3) – The projected first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft is arguably the Bulldogs’ best player on defense after a productive sophomore year. Now as a junior, Allen leads his defense into what will be a rocking Neyland Stadium, as the Volunteers look to dethrone the Dawgs atop the SEC. Against Austin Peay, he had seven tackles, including a sack. Look for Allen to keep pressure on Aguilar’s offense and keep Tennessee off the scoreboard.

Zion Branch (S #2) – Branch was quiet in the win over Austin Peay, but recorded seven tackles in his first game in Athens against Marshall. He will have the task of stopping the deep ball when Joey Aguilar and Heupel try to dial up an explosive play against the Bulldogs’ secondary. This transfer from USC has yet to make his mark for Bulldog Nation, and a clutch interception could go a long way in doing that.

Peyton Woodring (K #91) – Aside from being 10-10 on extra points this season, Woodring has seen very little action when it comes to field goals. With the chance that Stockton and the Bulldogs struggle to find the end zone, Woodring could be called upon to tack on three points for the Bulldogs when they need it most. This game will likely come down to a few possessions, so he could be called on in the final moments similar to Marshall Morgan’s game-winner against Tennessee in 2013.