Tennessee Has Leaned on Dylan Sampson All Season: Can the RB Lead the Vols to Victory at Ohio State?
As the Tennessee Volunteers gear up for their crucial showdown against Ohio State, one player stands out as the key to their success: running back Dylan Sampson. The sophomore speedster has been a consistent force in the Vols’ offense all season, and now the pressure is on him to deliver a standout performance against one of the nation’s top defenses.
Sampson’s Emergence as a Star
Coming into the 2024 season, many eyes were on the Volunteers’ backfield. While Jabari Small and Jaylen Wright received much of the preseason hype, it has been Dylan Sampson who’s made the biggest impact. With his quick feet, explosive bursts, and knack for finding running lanes, Sampson has delivered game after game, keeping Tennessee’s offense balanced and dangerous.
Through 11 games, Sampson has racked up 947 rushing yards, 10 touchdowns, and an impressive 5.8 yards per carry. His versatility in the passing game has also been on display, contributing 238 receiving yards and 2 touchdowns through the air. In an offense that often thrives on tempo and big plays, Sampson’s ability to move the chains consistently has been a stabilizing factor.
Why Tennessee Needs Sampson Against Ohio State
The Buckeyes’ defense has been a nightmare for opponents all season, ranking among the best in the country in both points allowed and total yards. Their front seven is anchored by elite talents like linebacker Tommy Eichenberg and defensive end J.T. Tuimoloau, who specialize in shutting down opposing run games.
For Tennessee to overcome this defensive juggernaut, they’ll need to establish the run early and often – and that’s where Dylan Sampson comes in. His ability to cut quickly, break tackles, and find gaps in the defense could give the Vols a chance to control the clock and keep Ohio State’s explosive offense off the field. A successful ground game would also take pressure off quarterback Nico Iamaleava, allowing Tennessee to avoid becoming one-dimensional.
The X-Factor: Explosive Plays
While ball control is critical, Sampson’s big-play potential could be the deciding factor. Tennessee has relied on his explosiveness to break open games, and against a defense like Ohio State’s, those opportunities might be scarce. If Sampson can exploit even the smallest mistake in the Buckeyes’ defense, he has the speed to turn a modest gain into a game-changing touchdown.
Additionally, his ability to contribute in the passing game could give Tennessee another dimension. Screen passes, swing routes, and checkdowns to Sampson might help mitigate Ohio State’s aggressive pass rush.
A Team Effort, but Sampson Holds the Key
Tennessee’s coaching staff, led by head coach Josh Heupel, knows that winning this matchup will take a complete team effort. The offensive line needs to create gaps, the receivers need to stretch the field, and the defense must limit Ohio State’s big-play potential.
But at the heart of it all is Dylan Sampson. If the Volunteers are to pull off an upset and make a statement in this high-stakes clash, their star running back will likely have to deliver one of his best performances yet.
Can He Deliver?
Dylan Sampson has proven time and again this season that he thrives under pressure. Whether it’s grinding out tough yards or breaking free for explosive runs, he’s been the engine of Tennessee’s offense. Now, facing their toughest challenge yet, the question remains: Can Sampson carry the Vols to victory in the hostile environment of the Horseshoe?
Vols fans are counting on it. And if history is any indicator, they just might be in for a thrilling ride.
