Breaking: Dylan Sampson leads four Vols voted All-SEC by Associated Press

Tennessee running back Dylan Sampson’s remarkable season has reached new heights as he was named the Southeastern Conference (SEC) Offensive Player of the Year by the Associated Press (AP). The accolade comes as no surprise, given Sampson’s outstanding performance throughout the season. On Wednesday, the AP also honored three additional Tennessee Volunteers as part of its prestigious All-SEC teams, further solidifying the Vols’ dominance in the conference.

Sampson, a standout running back, earned a unanimous first-team selection alongside cornerback Jermod McCoy. Meanwhile, center Cooper Mays and defensive lineman James Pearce garnered second-team honors. These accolades highlight the depth and talent of Tennessee’s roster, which has been a driving force behind their successful campaign this year.

Dylan Sampson’s Stellar Season

Sampson’s recognition as the SEC Offensive Player of the Year underscores his exceptional contributions on the field. Leading the conference in rushing yards with an impressive 1,485 yards and topping the charts with 22 rushing touchdowns, Sampson has proven to be a dominant force. His performance places him third nationally in rushing touchdowns, showcasing his prowess not just within the SEC but across the collegiate football landscape. Remarkably, his touchdown tally ties for the highest in the Power Four conferences, a testament to his consistency and scoring ability.

Beyond his touchdowns, Sampson led the SEC in an astonishing 11 statistical categories this season. His record-breaking efforts have rewritten Tennessee’s history books, as he shattered multiple single-season records. Earlier in December, USA Today also honored him as the SEC Player of the Year, further cementing his legacy in what has been a banner year for the junior running back.

Jermod McCoy’s Defensive Impact

Cornerback Jermod McCoy, another pivotal player for Tennessee, made his presence felt throughout the season. After transferring from Oregon State in the offseason, McCoy quickly established himself as a cornerstone of the Vols’ defense. His contributions were instrumental during Tennessee’s march to the College Football Playoff.

This season, McCoy defended 13 passes, recording four interceptions and nine pass breakups. His knack for making plays at critical moments has been vital for the Vols. Notably, two of his interceptions occurred in the end zone, effectively halting opposing teams’ scoring drives and preserving Tennessee’s momentum in key games. His four interceptions tie him for the SEC lead, a reflection of his exceptional ball-hawking skills and game awareness.

Cooper Mays: Anchoring the Offensive Line

Center Cooper Mays has been a cornerstone of Tennessee’s offensive line, earning him a spot on the AP’s second-team All-SEC. A fifth-year senior, Mays became the first player in school history to be named a finalist for the prestigious Rimington Trophy, which recognizes the nation’s top center. This honor underscores his critical role in the Vols’ offensive success.

Under Mays’ leadership, Tennessee’s offensive line played a significant role in the team’s ability to dominate on the ground. The Vols finished the regular season ranked ninth nationally in rushing offense, averaging an impressive 232 yards per game. Mays’ ability to provide stability and leadership in the trenches has been a key factor in the team’s success this year.

James Pearce: A Defensive Force

Defensive lineman James Pearce’s journey this season has been one of steady progression and impactful moments. While he started the year relatively quietly, as teams adjusted their strategies to avoid his pressure, Pearce’s impact became undeniable as the season wore on. He led the SEC with 52 quarterback pressures, demonstrating his relentless pursuit of opposing quarterbacks.

Pearce’s regular-season stats include 11 tackles for loss and 7.5 sacks, many of which came at crucial junctures for the Vols. His ability to disrupt plays and create havoc in the backfield has been instrumental in Tennessee’s defensive success. Pearce’s performance earned him a well-deserved spot on the AP’s second-team All-SEC.

Additional Honors and Recognitions

The accolades for Tennessee players didn’t stop with the AP All-SEC teams. On Tuesday, the SEC coaches released their own All-SEC selections, with Sampson, Mays, and Pearce earning first-team honors. McCoy was named to the coaches’ second team, further highlighting his defensive prowess.

In addition, Tennessee’s special teams and offensive line received recognition. Kickoff specialist Josh Turbyville and offensive lineman Javontez Spraggins were named to the SEC coaches’ third team, showcasing the depth and versatility of the Vols’ roster. These honors reflect the collective effort and excellence of Tennessee’s program this season.

Preparing for the College Football Playoffs

As the regular season’s accolades pour in, Tennessee remains focused on the road ahead. The Vols are set to face Ohio State in the first round of the College Football Playoff on Saturday, December 21. The matchup promises to be a thrilling contest, as Tennessee aims to build on their successful season and contend for a national championship.

The Vols’ preparation for the playoffs has been marked by a commitment to excellence and a determination to capitalize on their momentum. With standout players like Sampson, McCoy, Mays, and Pearce leading the way, Tennessee enters the postseason as a formidable contender.