For Tennessee offensive tackle Michael Munoz, last week's bye week could not have come at a better time.

The same could be said for the entire offensive line.

"There are guys nicked and bruised and aren't getting to practice as much," Munoz said Tuesday, "but last week getting that week off to do nothing but recuperate and heal themselves is helping us a lot."

Munoz suffered a concussion against Alabama on Oct. 23 but continued to play in the game.

Munoz, who had never had a concussion, said a blow to his head in the first half caused the injury and it worsened over a series of plays in the second half.

He missed the Oct. 30 game at South Carolina and most of the next week of practice before the Vols' 17-13 loss to Notre Dame.

It was a forgettable game for both Munoz and the rest of the line.

UT gained 58 rushing yards against Notre Dame, its second-lowest rushing output of the season.

"I mean, it's just one of those things you've got to put that game behind you and learn from it, hope for better luck and hope people don't get banged up," Munoz said.

Munoz said he has recovered, and the rest of the line is on its way back, too.

"I've been able to practice during bye week full go," he said. "(Monday) I thought was one of the best practices the line has had this year as far as energy and tempo. I think a lot of it had to do with being healthy and being ready to go and ready to get back on track."

Starting center Jason Respert (ankle) and backup center Chuck Prugh (ankle) are listed as probable for Saturday's game at Vanderbilt.

Guard Cody Douglas (foot) will probably not play. Tackle Arron Sears, who has played with foot and ankle injuries most of the season, is closer to full speed.

Left guard Rob Smith is the only offensive lineman who has started every game at the same position. Respert had started every game at center before the Notre Dame game.

"The good thing now is a lot of guys are healthy and I think we're ready to go," Munoz said. "Arron practiced full go (Monday)."

With a chance to clinch the SEC East Saturday, it's a good time for the line to be getting healthy.

"At the beginning of the year, that's our first goal, to put ourselves in position to win the SEC championship game and Vanderbilt is our next step," Munoz said.