Tennessee was nearly unrivaled in offensive production through the first three weeks of the season.

Averaging 63 points against non-conference opponents, that scoring total has been cut in half and then some since the Vols started SEC play. Held to 25 points against Oklahoma in a conference-opening win, Josh Heupel’s squad scored just 14 points during the loss to Arkansas in Week 6.

Ahead of their matchup against Florida at home, Tim Tebow attempted to get a pulse on the Tennessee offense. He looked toward the stat sheet for evidence that the Vols have fallen off track since SEC play began.

“This team started so hot,” Tebow said during an appearance on SportsCenter on Saturday morning ahead of SEC Nation. “Non-conference, they were dominating. 639 yards per game, but in-conference, yeah, you cut that by 300. That’s not the same team that’s been playing the last few weeks, and they’re just not on the same page.”

The former Florida Gators quarterback brought out the film against Arkansas to break down what exactly has been going wrong for the Volunteers offensively since conference play began.

“Look at this 3rd & 11, we call it money down. This is not money. It’s max protection, and all your receivers are walking. What is Nico supposed to do? You have to be on the same page,” Tebow said. “Another opportunity — you start a two-minute drill. You have a bubble up to the top, [Iamaleava] looks at it, doesn’t like it, looks the boundary. What are we doing? Blockers just standing there not blocking. How are you supposed to be successful when your team’s not on the same page?

“This is an offense that has so many gifts, but they’re not on the same page.”

Notably, the Vols have not played a conference game inside Neyland Stadium this season. The matchups against OU and Arkansas were both on the road, so Saturday’s game against Florida is the first chance for Tennessee to be backed by their home-field advantage.

Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET live on ESPN.

Tennessee football commit Ethan Utley has visited Knoxville a number of times for games at Neyland Stadium.

But through all his visits, Utley has never been to a Tennessee-Florida game.

That will change Saturday night. Utley is a four-star prospect from Ensworth ranked as the No. 2 overall 2025 player in Tennessee and the No. 23 defensive lineman nationally, according to the 247Sports Composite. He will be among what’s expected to be a large group of 2025 commits that will visit Tennessee when it hosts Florida.

“I’ve been to Tennessee-Kentucky twice and Tennessee-South Carolina. But I think that the Florida game will be something different, especially at night time,” Utley said. “Checkerboard Neyland, wearing the traditional home uniforms. I’m excited to see it and I’m excited to see my friends and future teammates.” 

UT is holding a Checker Neyland game for the eighth time. Fans are encouraged to wear orange or white, depending on their seat location, to make a checkerboard board pattern throughout the stadium. 

More: How Tennessee football commit Ethan Utley honors brother’s memory. ‘I’m living both our dreams out’

What Ethan Utley said about Tennessee football loss to Arkansas

Utley let out a long sigh when asked about Tennessee’s 19-14 upset loss at Arkansas last week. 

It was not a fun watch, but Utley saw a silver lining.

“Watching that game, it gave me hope,” Utley said after Ensworth’s 24-7 win over Father Ryan on Friday. “There’s still more to learn. The defense got its back against the wall a few times and came up with some huge stops. Those guys are still playing electric and not folding, kind of like we did tonight.” 

More: Pearl-Cohn, East Nashville in Class 2A? Key takeaways from TSSAA’s football classification release

Utley has helped Ensworth (7-0) get off to its best start since 2013, but every Saturday he’s closely watching Tennessee. 

“I’m locked in at all times. Me and my best friend (Tennessee commit) Dylan Lewis, who’s from Atlanta, we’ll FaceTime and watch the game together,” Utley said. “We’ll talk about it, kind of envision ourselves on the actual defense itself.”

Reach sports writer Tyler Palmateer at tpalmateer@tennessean.com and on the X platform, formerly Twitter, @tpalmateer83.

Local independent bookstores have never been more important. With fair access to literature under political attack, bookstores are a bulwark against censorship and an asset to the communities they serve. 

Each week we profile an independent bookstore, discovering what makes each one special and getting their expert book recommendations.

This week we have Leah Gilkerson and Kaitlyn Parker of The Unkind Raven in Dandridge, Tennessee!

What’s your store’s story?

We had a vision that The Unkind Raven Booktique could bring our community together in a non-traditional way by hosting workshops, fundraisers and events. Our charming indie bookstore is nestled in downtown historic Dandridge inside a quaint 1845 building known as the Historic Hynds House. As a women-owned establishment, we’re proud to have opened our doors in December 2023, extending a warm welcome to all who step into our shop.

What makes your independent bookstore unique?

We stand out by fostering community bonds through an array of classes, gifting children’s books, and housing a dedicated museum within our historic building, creating a space where stories come to life. Our commitment to creating a holistic literary experience sets us apart as more than just a bookstore, but a cultural hub for all to enjoy.

What’s your favorite section in your store?

Our most cherished spots within the bookstore are the cozy rooms, where one can immerse themselves in books, or enjoy spirited games with friends, creating lasting memories within the heart of our historic house.

What book do you love to recommend to customers and why?

Ray Bradbury’s “Fahrenheit 451” will always be recommended because of its stance against censorship and the upholding of literature. Additionally, John Steinbeck’s “East of Eden” is such a classic that gets overlooked!

Why is shopping at local independent bookstores important?

It’s crucial as it directly supports the local economy, preserves community character, and sustains neighborhood livelihoods. These small shops often offer personalized recommendations, unique selections, and a sense of belonging, fostering a vibrant literary culture that celebrates individuality and diversity.

What are some of your store’s upcoming programs or partnerships you would like to share?

We are continuing to achieve this vision through the month of October with pottery, jewelry making, a release party and reading, The Unkind Raven One Year Anniversary Booktacular, cookie decorating, stained glass, and Halloween fun.