I think UT's offensive has a gimmicky feel to it, but it's certainly a legit style that can be very successful if executed properly and if the opposing defense either isn't prepared for it or talented enough to do what it takes to defend against it.

When I think of "gimmick" offenses, I think of offenses that can be successful with inferior players. For years, Georgia Tech's triple option felt like a gimmick because they didn't have better athletes, but they could give teams a headache because few teams run that type of offense any more; it could be tough to prepare for and it required great concentration and discipline on top of being a better physical athlete.

Gus Malzahn's offenses at Auburn felt "gimmicky" because of the amount of trick plays and misdirection he utilized.

Likewise, Tennessee's current offense has a "gimmicky" feel to it because of the spread concepts and HUNH that are intended to confuse defenses, force them to commit to one type of play (run or pass), and tire them out quickly by preventing them from subbing. It's not based on simply being "better" than the other team, but relies on manipulating the other team.

In short, yes, it feels "gimmicky", but it's an effective offense as long as defenses are forced to pick their poison. As long as it works for them, they should keep using it. It's all about winning, so who cares if it's "gimmicky" or not?