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Asked SI one more time about the game without using other predictions but rather SI's own thoughts. Here is what it came up with. I feel somewhat different about it tonight than I did earlier this week. Not dramatically, but I’ve moved a little more toward Tennessee being able to win it. My own read, without using the betting line or other people's predictions, is: Tennessee's offense is the biggest reason. The Vols have scored 42+ in each of their first three games, and their rushing attack gives them a way to keep Texas' defense from simply teeing off on Faizon Brandon. I’m less concerned about Faizon than I was initially. This is obviously his biggest test, but Tennessee's offensive line and running game can make his job considerably easier. Texas' defense is the matchup that worries me most for Tennessee. Heupel himself emphasized Texas' athleticism, pressure packages and ability to limit explosive plays. Arch Manning is the swing factor. Texas has a very experienced roster, but Manning has shown some uneven stretches this season. If Tennessee can pressure him without constantly blitzing, I think that becomes very important. Tennessee's defense is my biggest concern. The Vols haven't been tested like this yet, particularly in the secondary. Heupel specifically identified Texas' Ryan Wingo and Cam Coleman as a major challenge. The environment matters more than usual. A sold-out, Checker Neyland, noon kickoff with College GameDay and the added attention surrounding President Trump's attendance should make this an unusually intense home environment. Weather looks essentially neutral. Current forecasts are around 69°F, sunny, with very light wind, so I wouldn't build weather into the prediction. My revised football-only prediction If I were making the call strictly from the matchup, I'd put it around: Tennessee 34, Texas 31 I don't think Tennessee dominates Texas. I think it's more likely to be a one-score game in the fourth quarter, with Tennessee's ability to run the football and the Neyland environment giving the Vols a legitimate path to finish it. And there's one thing I particularly like about Tennessee's situation: they don't need Faizon Brandon to be spectacular for Tennessee to win. They need him to make the throws that are there, avoid catastrophic mistakes, and let Bishop and that offensive line keep the game on schedule. That's a little different from my earlier read.