This situation is what I was speaking to earlier this year, specifically the idea that a number of schools would come in with atypical talent and competitive options due to fifth year seniors using the exception to return. Experience has value, and fifth year players (particularly those with talent) will present unique opportunities to the schools who can start them. It also puts teams who won't have those players return at a disadvantage, and naturally, Tennessee is one of those teams. It's no fault or obligation on the part of the departing players, but it is yet another kick to Tennessee while it's struggling to stay relevant. It doesn't seem like much of a tilt in the playing field, but if, let's say, Tennessee loses a few extra games to teams they normally wouldn't have, which in turns hurts their recruiting profile or costs them a better seed -- well.
