Tennessee football received a rough introduction into the College Football Playoffs Saturday. The Volunteers did more than fall behind early 21-0 to Ohio State. They lost a pivotal piece in Dylan Sampson.

The running back limped off during the first half against the Buckeyes. The news later got worse for Sampson, per Pete Thamel of ESPN.

“Dylan Sampson is officially questionable to return with a lower body injury,” Thamel posted on X. “He looked ginger walking out of locker room and hasn’t had a carry since the 3:27 mark of first quarter.”

Thamel added one more ailment on Tennessee's side.

“Squirrel White was limping with a brace on his right knee. He’s also questionable,” Thamel said.

The Vols fell behind 21-10 at halftime. The Southeastern Conference Offensive Player of the Year Sampson settled for only six yards before his ailment.

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ESPN previously reported Sampson had hamstring trouble before the game. He entered Ohio Stadium with 1,485 rushing yards and 22 touchdowns to lead the SEC. Tennessee trailed 28-10 into the third quarter.

Sampson, however, attempted to return late in the third quarter. He never dressed out of his game day attire. The Volunteers still struggled with establishing the run — as OSU held the Vols to only 87 yards rushing through the first three quarters.

Peyton Lewis ended up leading the ground attack with 77 yards off 10 carries. DeSean Bishop tacked on 22 yards through seven carries. Even quarterback Nico Iamaleava needed to turn to his running ability. The dual-threat passer racked up 47 yards on 20 carries.

Tennessee's season ends at 10-3 overall. Sampson, meanwhile, has a major decision to make. He's already completed three college seasons in Knoxville. Sampson is eligible to enter the 2025 NFL Draft by virtue of playing across a trio of campaigns. He's racked up 2,486 rushing yards and 35 touchdowns. Sampson is ninth in school history for rushing yardage in a career.