Rick Barnes evaluates Tennessee defense early against Louisiana

Tennessee has done one thing well this season under Rick Barnes — play defense. The Vols have been consistent all season and at times, won games thanks to their great defensive performances. If a win against Louisiana is going to be produced on Thursday, similar results will have to be accomplished.

Early on, Barnes seems to be happy with his team’s defense. He talked about how switching into a zone has affected the Ragin’ Cajuns, even if Tennessee is not used to playing in it. An early sign of success for the highly-favored four-seed.

“Well, they did a good job,” Barnes said of Louisiana. “We were really trying to pressure. They did a good job of using their speed. Got us in a lot of double, low ball screens. We didn’t handle it very well. Switched it up, the zone has been good to us so far. We don’t normally do it but it’s worked out a little bit right now. But a long way to go.”

Heading into Thursday night, Louisiana was one of the best offensive teams in the country, averaging 78 points a night. There will continue to be opportunities for the Ragin’ Cajuns to break out at some point. IN fact, they will likely need a few runs to win the game.

But for now, Tennessee is performing well and playing solid defense. A consistent them for them throughout the season is translating well early on.

Tennessee, Rick Barnes looking to advance in NCAA Tournament

Tennessee has been one of the more consistent teams in the SEC over the past few years. Barnes continually has the Vols near the top of the rankings and competing for a conference championship. However, the NCAA Tournament has been a different kind of story.

A loss in the first weekend has been the result of the past two appearances. In the eight seasons Barnes has been in charge, Tennessee has only made the Sweet 16 once. Something they are going to be desperate to change.

Not having Zekai Zeigler is going to hurt, as we saw during times at the stretch end of the regular season and the SEC Tournament. Barnes must be able to adapt, continue to rely on his quality defense, and still be in the big dance a week from now.