Christmas List: What Vol fans are hoping to find under the tree this year

Tennessee's secondary will look very different next season. So far, the only starter who has eligibility and hasn't already entered the transfer portal is Gabe Jeudy-Lally. All other starters, and even some key reserves, have hit the portal.

Now, the Vols will bring in a pair of transfers in Jermod McCoy and Jakobe Thomas to complete a young and athletic secondary. These young players include Rickey Gibson III and Jourdan Thomas along with incoming freshmen and other inexperienced pieces.

Tennessee will hope that next year the defensive backs will play at a higher level. It hurt the Vols in a few matches in 2023 but it should be a more talented and athletic room in 2024 despite the inexperience.

Men's basketball - A consistent offense

Tennessee has one of the best defenses in the country. The Vols have used this to earn a top-10 ranking and are considered a contender for the national championship.

However, a somewhat concerning flaw is an offense that has already gone through cold stretches.

If Tennessee can solve this issue and consistently put together an effective offense, they'll be tough to beat. This will likely come through the play of Dalton Knecht, Josiah-Jordan James and Zakai Zeigler.

If this happens, look out for the Vols to make a deep run in March.

Women's basketball - A healthy roster

It's been a rough season for the Lady Vols. While some of these issues can't be pinned on injuries, Tennessee also hasn't been fortunate in this regard.

Mainly, Rickea Jackson hasn't been able to see the floor for a large stretch of out-of-conference play. She did return in the team's most recent match but that also marked the first game of a season-ending injury for Destinee Wells.

Jillian Hollingshead, Jasmine Powell and Avery Strickland have also already had to miss time. If the Lady Vols stay healthy, they may be able to turn the year around.

Baseball - An elite starting rotation

Tennessee is always in the conversation for a national championship now that Tony Vitello is atop the program.

Ahead of 2024, there are a handful of questions he will need to address following a College World Series run. One of these is the starting rotation.

Two pitchers that will likely be used are Drew Beam and AJ Russell. The third role hasn't been decided yet. It looks like it could be Wyatt Evans but there is a long way until the final decision will be made.

If the Vols can parlay what is projected to be a dynamic offense with a shutdown pitching staff, they're poised to make another postseason run.

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