Peyton Lewis Injury Update: Why the Tennessee RB Was Ruled Out vs Florida

Tennessee running back Peyton Lewis has been ruled out for the Nov. 22 matchup against Florida. The decision appeared in the updated SEC availability report released on Nov. 21. Lewis will not travel with the team and has been listed as out with an unknown issue.

The Vols will now rely heavily on DeSean Bishop and Star Thomas to carry the load. Officials confirmed the latest update through the conference’s mandated reporting system, which requires accurate player status designations before game day. The Florida Gators will also be without several players, creating significant lineup changes on both sides.

Everything We Know About the Peyton Lewis Injury Update

Lewis is one of six Tennessee players ruled out for the SEC rivalry game. He has rushed for 290 yards and seven touchdowns in his freshman season. His speed and early-season red-zone production made him a key part of Tennessee’s backfield rotation.

The SEC student-athlete availability report listed Lewis as out with no details about the nature of the issue. Tennessee has followed league policy, which requires schools to report any situation that may affect a player’s ability to compete. According to the report, players marked out have a zero percent chance of participating.

Offensive guard Wendell Moe, who was questionable during the week, has been cleared to play. He has started all 10 games this season and is vital to Tennessee’s interior blocking. His availability helps stabilize the offensive line, which will need to support a run game missing one of its top contributors.

Tennessee’s injury list also includes DB Sidney Walton, WR Joakim Dodson, TE Miles Kitselman, CB Jermod McCoy, and CB Rickey Gibson. Florida’s report is even longer, with multiple starters and depth players listed as out, including WR Eugene Wilson, ILB Ty Jackson, and EDGE LJ McCray.

Trusted national outlets such as AP and Reuters have previously reported on the SEC’s newer injury-reporting structure, introduced in 2024 to bring transparency to player availability decisions. This system updates daily and again 90 minutes before kickoff, ensuring uniform reporting across the league.

The Vols enter the game ranked No. 20 at 7-3 overall. The Gators sit at 3-7, dealing with heavy injuries throughout the season. While Lewis’ absence affects Tennessee’s rotation, the team still has depth at running back and retains its starting offensive line.

How Peyton Lewis’ Absence Shapes Tennessee’s Game Plan

Lewis’ absence may shift Tennessee’s approach. Bishop may see increased carries early, while Thomas could fill in on short-yardage plays. The Vols often rely on multiple backs to maintain tempo, so losing one option changes the rhythm.

The Florida defense has struggled in recent weeks, but the Vols will still need consistent production to keep pressure off the passing game. Moe’s return helps, but the team must adjust quickly to life without one of its key rushing contributors.

This game also matters for Tennessee’s late-season positioning. A win would help secure a stronger finish in conference play. Lewis’ injury limits depth, yet the Vols still have capable runners and a stable offensive structure to compete effectively.

Peyton Lewis’ status remains unchanged heading into kickoff. Tennessee will reassess his condition moving forward. For now, the Vols prepare for Florida with adjustments in their offensive backfield and a renewed focus on execution.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What happened to Peyton Lewis?

He was ruled out on the updated SEC availability report. Tennessee listed him as out with an unknown issue for the Florida game.

Q2: Will Peyton Lewis return this season?

The school has not released further information. His status will depend on upcoming availability reports.

Q3: Who replaces Peyton Lewis against Florida?

DeSean Bishop and Star Thomas will lead the backfield. Tennessee may use a heavier rotation to balance snaps.

Q4: How does his absence affect Tennessee’s offense?

The Vols lose a productive red-zone runner. They will rely on blocking consistency and depth to maintain their ground game.

Q5: When does the SEC release injury reports?

Reports begin on Wednesday and update daily. A final update is issued 90 minutes before kickoff.