Tennessee Vols Survive Overtime Thriller Against Mississippi State

On September 23, 2025, the No. 15 Tennessee Volunteers survived a roller-coaster clash against Mississippi State, edging the Bulldogs 41-34 in overtime. The Vols needed two defensive touchdowns in regulation and a walk-off stop in overtime to escape with the crucial road victory.

Tennessee's defense carried the night, recording five sacks, relentless pressure, and two touchdowns. Colton Hood returned an interception 23 yards for a score in the first quarter, while Tyre West forced a fumble that Joshua Josephs returned 41 yards for a touchdown in the fourth quarter. Running back DeSean Bishop then provided the decisive blow, sprinting 25 yards for a touchdown on the first play of overtime. Linebacker Arion Carter sealed the win by batting down a fourth-down pass in the end zone.

However, mistakes nearly doomed the Vols, as they committed three turnovers that led to Mississippi State touchdowns. Quarterback Joey Aguilar, who has started 29 straight Division I games with at least 200 passing yards, struggled with two interceptions. Despite the chaos, Tennessee enters its open week at 4-1 overall and 1-1 in SEC play, regaining momentum before hosting Arkansas on October 11.