Tennessee football is set to open its 2024 season on Saturday against in-state FCS opponent Chattanooga.

Ahead of the matchup, the VolReport staff gave some predictions for how things will go down in Neyland Stadium.

Here's what we think.

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Ryan Sylvia: 59-3 Vols

Tennessee shouldn't have much of a problem with Chattanooga. The Mocs are a solid FCS-level program but compared to the Vols, this shouldn't be much of a game by the time the first quarter ends. Nico Iamaleava will look the part of a starter as he gets the season started with no turnovers committed. The defense will also tighten up and hold the majority of Chattanooga drives to punts before crossing the 50.

Noah Taylor: 58-6 Vols

For all of the talk since the Citrus Bowl about Tennessee's offense under the direction of Iamaleava, Tennessee will finally get to show it against Chattanooga. The Vols will put up points quickly, putting on display their upgraded wide receiving corps and run game now headlined by Dylan Sampson. The defense will dominate, too, forcing the Mocs into some mistakes. Expect plenty of reps for the two and three teams in the second half.

Dale Dowden: 52-6 Vols

As it is the first game of the season and the possibility of struggling is there, I believe the Vols' offense gets rolling, but I would not be shocked to see some points come from the defense and/or the special teams.

Ryan Sylvia: Vols only rack up a pair of sacks

I don't expect Tennessee to notch too many sacks in the first game. This has nothing to do with ability, though, and more so how Chattanooga will look to attack. With one of the best defensive lines in the country clad in orange, the Mocs will likely get the ball out before any harm gets homes. So, if the sack number is low, there isn't any reason to panic.

Noah Taylor: Tennessee's defense comes up with three or more turnovers

If the Vols' vaunted defensive front leans into its talent advantage, it could help force the Chattanooga offense into some mistakes. All three levels of Tennessee's defense will have a hand in at least three turnovers, whether it's forcing and recovering fumbles or the secondary coming up with an interception.

Dale Dowden: The Vols will force at least three turnovers

They have the best defender in college football playing the edge in James Pearce Jr. with a bunch of hungry young guys in the secondary and are eager to get their hands on the football.

Ryan Sylvia: Nico Iamaleava

There isn't just one player that will be the difference in a win and loss on Saturday. Since the margin should be wide, the player I'll have my scope on is Nico Iamaleava. I expect him to look the part of a starter without too many errors but that will likely be the difference between Vol fans going home happy or upset after the opener.

Noah Taylor: The run game

Tennessee leaned heavily into its run game a year ago, in part because of necessity. The passing game will its big play ability on Saturday, showing that it is now a compliment to running the ball. Dylan Sampson will get a handful of carries and help get the offense going early, but the rest of the group will take advantage of reps and stand out in their first significant game action.

Dale Dowden: Dylan Sampson

As this will be Sampson's first year as the starter and the pressure is on, Samson is ready. Expect the talented running back to be a factor in the passing game as well as the obvious, running game.

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