ESPN's Football Power Index (FPI) predicts Tennessee's 2026 college football schedule, offering insights into the Vols' potential performance. With a preseason ranking of No. 16, Tennessee aims to bounce back from a disappointing 8-5 season in 2025. The FPI projects a 7.3-game win total against a nine-game SEC schedule, giving the Vols a 3.3% chance of winning the conference and a 20.5% chance of making the College Football Playoff. This analysis delves into the team's prospects, considering factors like returning starters, new coordinators, and quarterback competitions. The article highlights key matchups, including home games against Furman, Kennesaw State, and Vanderbilt, as well as away games against Georgia Tech, Arkansas, and LSU. It also discusses the challenges posed by SEC rivals like Texas, Auburn, and Alabama, and the potential impact of new coaches like Lane Kiffin at LSU and Ryan Silverfield at Arkansas. The FPI's predictions provide a comprehensive outlook, offering a glimpse into Tennessee's future in the highly competitive SEC.
