SEC Power Rankings: Alabama in class by themselves, LSU sliding fast

Nov 14, 2015; Knoxville, TN, USA; Tennessee Volunteers running back Jalen Hurd (1) runs the ball against the North Texas Mean Green at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports

The Tennessee Vols improved to 6-4 overall with a 24-0 Homecoming victory over North Texas Saturday, which secured a bowl game for the second consecutive season for the program. Strangely for such a prestigious program, it’s only the third time since 2005 the Vols have been bowl eligible in back-to-back seasons.

Tennessee’s defense was dominant Saturday and held the Mean Green to 199 total yards – the fewest the Vols have allowed in a game since 2010. The shutout was the first for the squad since the 2013 season opener.

On offense, running back Alvin Kamara led the Vols with 127 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 15 carries. Jalen Hurd had 72 rushing yards and a TD on 15 attempts. Quarterback Joshua Dobbs threw for 136 yards and an interception on 15-for-23 passing and gained three rushing yards on four carries before giving way to back up Quinten Dormady. Nine players caught passes, and Josh Malone led the way with four receptions and 38 receiving yards.

Tennessee’s quest for a 5-0 finish to the regular season continues this week in Columbia, Missouri. While Mizzou has struggled this season, head coach Gary Pinkel will be coaching his final home game before retiring, and the Tigers need a victory to become bowl eligible.

Next Game: Saturday November 21 at Missouri

Next: Mississippi State