Quick list of goals for Tennessee football's 2017 season, including no embarrassing losses

 Almost all college football teams set season goals, which they usually keep to themselves. But there’s nothing secret about my goals for UT’s upcoming season.

Don’t get embarrassed: Embarrassments are relative. Some would consider any loss to Vanderbilt an embarrassment. But based on the recent history of the series, that assessment is outdated.

The Commodores have won three of the past five games.

There’s no debating whether UT was embarrassed in last season’s loss to Alabama, which rushed for 409 yards in a 49-10 victory.

It could have been worse. Alabama didn't score in the last 11 minutes.

Don’t let anyone hit 600: Both Kentucky and Missouri amassed more than 600 yards last season.

I realize this is an offensive era, and UT won both games. But still, 600 yards?

30 or more forced turnovers: Even if Tennessee’s defense gives up huge chunks of yardage, it could help itself immensely by forcing more turnovers. UT had 11 pass interceptions and 13 fumble recoveries last season.

1,300 yards rushing for John Kelly: After two seasons, UT’s junior running back has only 795 yards rushing. But that was as a backup behind Jalen Hurd and Alvin Kamara.

As UT's No. 1 running back, he's capable of becoming the fifth Vol to rush for as many as 1,300 yards in a season.

A 3,000-yard passer: The Vols haven’t had a quarterback throw for more than 3,000 yards since Tyler Bray did it in 2012, although Joshua Dobbs came close (2,946 yards) last season.

But whether Quinten Dormady or Jarrett Guarantano is the starting quarterback, UT is apt to rely more on the pass than last season.

Five players with 30 or more catches: The Vols had three receivers with 40 or more receptions last season, but no one else had more than 21.

This preseason, coaches have talked about getting the tight end more involved in the offense. Although Jauan Jennings is the only returning receiver with 40 or more catches, there’s plenty of potential on the depth chart.

Four players with five or more sacks: All-American defensive end Derek Barnett had 13 sacks last season and fellow end Corey Vereen had seven. But no one else had more than 2.5.

The Vols can’t expect anyone to match Barnett’s production, but more players could have an impact rushing the passer.

At least 175 yards rushing in 11 games: With Kelly running behind a veteran line, the Vols should click offensively right away.

UT managed just 127 yards rushing in last season’s opener against Appalachian State.

At least 75 yards rushing against Alabama: That would be more than twice as much as what the Vols gained against the Tide last season when they totaled 32 yards rushing on 32 carries.

Bowl goal: UT's recent bowl formula has worked beautifully. So why change?

Just win enough games to qualify for a bowl against a Big Ten West opponent. That has produced three consecutive impressive victories. 

Reach John Adams at john.adams@knoxnews.com or 865-342-6284 and on Twitter @johnadamskns.