After struggling to find any offense in the second half, Matt Simms found Denarius Moore in the back of the end zone and Tennessee escaped with a 32-29 double-overtime win against Alabama-Birmingham.

The teams exchanged field goals in the first overtime, then the Blazers grabbed a 26-23 lead. The Volunteers wasted no time going for the win. On first down, Simms stood tall in the pocket and floated a perfect pass to Moore, who leaped to corral his second touchdown of the day.

At first it looked like Tennessee was on its way to an easy win. Tennessee took a 23-7 lead late in the second quarter on Prentiss Waggner’s 9-yard interception return. But the Volunteers struggled in the second half just as they have all season. Tennessee was shut out in the second half, and for the game converted just two of 15 third downs.

The Volunteers also were shredded by UAB quarterback Bryan Ellis, who threw for 372 yards. UAB (1-3) outgained Tennessee 545 to 286 total yards.

UAB kicker Josh Zahn missed five field goals in regulation but made both in overtime.

Simms finished 19 of 34 for 244 yards and three touchdowns. The Volunteers were held to 42 rushing yards.

Tennessee improved to 2-2 and plays LSU next week.