Tennessee's starting left tackle, Lance Heard, will be sidelined for the Vols' SEC opener against Oklahoma on Saturday night, confirmed by both ESPN and Tennessee. Heard, who was listed as "questionable" earlier in the week, will not be available for the upcoming crucial matchup. The Vols had been relying on the LSU offensive tackle transfer to fill the void left by Gerald Mincey, who transferred to Kentucky after being a two-year starter.

With Heard out of commission, Dayne Davis, a versatile super senior, will step in to start at left tackle for Tennessee. Davis has already showcased his proficiency as an offensive lineman for the Vols this season, making him a reliable replacement. The Vols find themselves with a thin offensive line, and alongside Davis, John Campbell Jr. will take on the role of right tackle, with Larry Johnson also in contention for playing time.

Oklahoma poses a formidable challenge, particularly with its robust defense led by defensive ends R Mason Thomas and Gracen Halton, who have already accumulated 5.5 sacks in just three games this season. The strength of Oklahoma's defensive front will test the endurance and adaptability of Tennessee's offensive line, placing additional pressure on Davis and his fellow linemen. The Vols will have to deliver a solid performance to contend against this tough defense.