WNBA icon Candace Parker recently shared her support for Tennessee football following their College Football Playoff loss to Ohio State. In her Instagram post, she expressed pride in the team’s season, showcasing her unwavering loyalty to her alma mater while reflecting on her own journey in sports.
In a challenging matchup during the first round of the 2024 College Football Playoff, the seventh-ranked Tennessee Volunteers faced off against the sixth-ranked Ohio State Buckeyes. The game, held at Ohio Stadium, ended with a decisive 42-17 victory for Ohio State, marking a tough setback for the Volunteers. Despite their efforts, Tennessee was unable to overcome a swift and powerful start from the Buckeyes, who quickly established a commanding lead.
The Vols entered the playoff with a solid season record of 10-3, showcasing their growth under head coach Josh Heupel. This season marked the second time in three years that Tennessee achieved double-digit wins, reflecting a resurgence in their football program. Throughout the season, the team demonstrated resilience and skill, but they faced an uphill battle against a formidable Ohio State team that executed their game plan effectively.
Quarterback Nico Iamaleava had a mixed night, completing 14 of 31 passes for 104 yards while also contributing two rushing touchdowns. Despite the challenges, Iamaleava’s performance highlighted his potential as he concluded his first season as a starter with a historic 10-win record, a first for any freshman quarterback in Tennessee’s history. His progress throughout the year has been a bright spot for the Vols as they look to build on this foundation in the coming seasons.
WNBA Icon Candace Parker Shares About Tennessee Football After CFP Loss
Tennessee’s loss did not deter Parker from expressing her support to the college football team. This can be seen in a video shared by the WNBA star’s account on Instagram.
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Tennessee’s defense managed to register seven tackles for loss, showcasing their ability to disrupt plays despite the overall scoreline. Linebacker Jeremiah Telander stood out with a career-high 10 tackles, reinforcing the team’s defensive efforts. The Volunteers’ tenacity in the face of adversity demonstrated their determination, even as they navigated the challenges of competing at such a high level.
As the season wraps up, Tennessee fans can take pride in their team’s achievements and the foundation laid for future success. With a strong recruiting class and returning talent, the Volunteers aim to build on this year’s experiences, hoping to return to the playoff stage stronger and more prepared for the challenges ahead. If that happens, expect Parker to cheer on her team once again.
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