A 9-3 record would give some SEC teams a chance at playoff qualification, but 10-2 is a golden ticket. Connelly’s latest formula gives 10 SEC teams a 5% chance or better of finishing at least 10-2. Strictly speaking, these percentages do not represent the chance that a team will make the playoff — only its chance of finishing 10-2 or better.

College Football Playoff executive director Rich Clark told Ross Dellenger of Yahoo Sports on Wednesday that the CFP will now include player availability and injury reports from its participating teams.

A College Football Playoff appearance is possible but depends on the Vols reloading at key positions. The team's performance will hinge on the play of new quarterback Joey Aguilar or Jake Merklinger, as well a rebuilt offensive line and receiving corps.