KNOXVILLE — Tennessee (3-5, 1-4 SEC) has kicked of Homecoming week against Charlotte (4-4, 3-2 C-USA).

Jeremy Pruitt discussed the 49ers ahead of Saturday’s game.

“We’ve got a really good opponent this week in Charlotte,” Pruitt said. “Their coaching staff has a ton of experience. They’re very well coached, offensively and defensively.”

Charlotte ranks as the No. 18 best defense nationally in giving up 318.6 total yards per game. The 49ers rank No. 6 nationally in rushing yards given up per game (89.8) and 69th in passing yards (228.9).

“They eliminate the run in the run game,” Pruitt said. “They get lots of turnovers.”

Charlotte’s defense ranks tied for 36th nationally in turnovers created with 14 (9 INTs, 5 fumble recoveries). Senior linebacker Juwan Foggie leads the nation in interceptions with six.

Pruitt wants to continue focusing on his team and improving throughout game week.

“We’ve got to focus on us and try to improve,” he said. “I think when we do that it shows up on Saturdays. Then we have to take it to the game and we have to do a good job of finishing in the game.”