The Vols already have a tough group of rivals in the SEC. Does having another one really help?
At first glance, this question may seem like a dumb one. Of course it's not better for the Tennessee Volunteers if South Carolina is relevant. That just means one more tough game on a schedule that is already one of the tougher ones in the country every season. But the question is worth considering with the Gamecocks coming to town this weekend.
Having the South Carolina Gamecocks as a serious rival year in and year out helps the Vols have a relevant opponent late in the season.