KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (AP) -- Tennessee coach Derek Dooley has suspended defensive tackle Montori Hughes for the final game of the season against Kentucky.

Dooley says the sophomore from Murfreesboro violated a team academics policy.

Hughes started the first five games of the season and has played in all 11 games. He's recorded 16 tackles, and tied a career high four tackles in his first career start against Tennessee-Martin.

Hughes has been backing up senior Victor Thomas. Freshman Joseph Ayers is also available to play in his place.

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)