Tennessee’s Ranking in AP Top 25 Still Uncertain After Syracuse Win
Tennessee opened its season with a convincing 45–26 victory over Syracuse, but where that leaves the Volunteers in the upcoming AP Top 25 poll has become a point of debate among national media outlets. The Vols entered the matchup already carrying preseason expectations, and while they delivered offensively, their ranking trajectory remains split between analysts.
On3 projects Tennessee will climb one spot, landing at No. 23. That prediction reflects the offensive efficiency shown in the win and the belief that Tennessee has the depth and playmakers to build momentum in the weeks ahead. The team’s ability to spread the ball around and control the tempo impressed observers, especially against a Power Five opponent in Week 1.
Sports Illustrated’s Mike McDaniel, however, has a different perspective. Despite the victory, he predicts Tennessee will slide to No. 25. His view stems from concerns over defensive lapses that allowed Syracuse to keep the game competitive for longer stretches than expected. While the Vols finished strong, McDaniel suggests that voters might weigh those vulnerabilities more heavily, especially with other ranked teams posting dominant wins.
The split illustrates the unpredictable nature of early-season rankings, where strength of opponent, style points, and voter perception all collide. For Tennessee, the main takeaway is that the program remains firmly in the national spotlight. Whether at No. 23 or No. 25, the Vols continue to hold a place in the poll and have an opportunity to climb higher with consistent performances.
Ultimately, their path forward is straightforward: stack wins, tighten up on defense, and prove to the nation that their victory over Syracuse was just the beginning of a bigger campaign. The next few weeks will determine if Tennessee can silence doubts and solidify itself as a Top-20 contender.
