Tennessee Used Drop Kick Against Texas
Tennessee unsuccessfully attempted a rare drop kick on an onside kick during their narrow 20-17 loss to Texas.
Updated on Sept. 26, 2026 in Football
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Tennessee utilized a rare drop kick technique during an onside kick attempt at Neyland Stadium with 1:22 remaining in the fourth quarter. Despite the successful recovery by Arion Carter, Tennessee ultimately lost to No. 1 Texas with a final score of 20-17.
Why it matters
Tennessee attempted the unconventional kick to regain possession while trailing in the game's final minutes. Texas coach Steve Sarkisian has since requested an SEC review to determine the play's legality.
Tennessee executed the drop kick with 1:22 remaining in the fourth quarter at Neyland Stadium. The game ended in a 20-17 defeat against No. 1 Texas, despite a 30-yard touchdown reception by Mike Matthews.
The players
Jackson Ross
He is the Tennessee kicker who executed the drop kick technique during the game.
Arion Carter
He is the Tennessee player who recovered the ball following the onside kick.
Steve Sarkisian
He is the head coach of the Texas football team who requested an SEC review of the play.
The details
Kicker Jackson Ross performed the drop kick, allowing Arion Carter to recover the ball after it moved past the opponent's front line. Although officials initially flagged the play, they rescinded the call following a discussion.
Timeline
The game between Tennessee and Texas took place on 2026-09-26.
Tennessee attempted the onside kick with 1:22 remaining in the fourth quarter.
Season Trajectory
This game impacts the SEC standings and playoff implications for both No. 1 Texas and No. 13 Tennessee. The controversy over the legality of the kick could lead to formal guidance from the league that changes how teams approach late-game onside attempts for the remainder of the season.
The potential SEC ruling could result in a future ban or clarification on drop kick usage for all conference teams. Tennessee fans should monitor if this technique remains in the special teams rotation for upcoming games.
The takeaway
The use of a drop kick demonstrates the extreme measures teams will take to overcome a deficit in the final minutes of play. Coaches and special teams coordinators will likely watch for a formal league response before attempting similar unconventional plays this season.
Further reading
For more on the latest team developments and league updates, visit Football.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Leaf-Chronicle.
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