Scotty's Flat Top
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Everyone loves him, shows a great deal of respect to not leak the source of his dismay.
Them Vols offseason thread
- Thread starter wU-Tang Vol
- Start date
Everyone loves him, shows a great deal of respect to not leak the source of his dismay.
BenTenn
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Like Michael Sam. Im not saying Pig is gay, but the way his team kept that a secret showed respect.
Scotty's Flat Top
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Yep. Rare these days.
Scotty's Flat Top
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@patrickbrownTFP: Butch said the 'clock is ticking' for Jason Carr, and a switch from defensive tackle to offensive line is a firm possibility for him.
wU-Tang Vol
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Marquez North*toed the 5-yard line, sank into his stance and fired off the line.
With a swift head fake, the*Tennessee*wideout briefly ducked inside before turning and bolting to the back corner of the end zone.
Ball in air, North — all 6-foot-4, 225 pounds of him — leaped, threw his hands toward the sky and trapped a pass between his catcher’s mitt-sized paws.
But only for a moment.
Emmanuel Moseley*— all 5-foot-10, 160 pounds of him — jarred the ball from the grasp of the former freshman All-American with a swift punch.
Moseley may be small, wiry and young, but Tennessee coach Butch Jones said Thursday the freshman cornerback has stood out this spring and is a serious contender to start next fall.
“(Moseley) continually impresses,” Jones told InsideTennessee. “He’s competitive, fights for the ball in the air.”
Moseley was overmatched physically Thursday during the one-on-one drill against North. He better get used to the feeling. And he better get used to winning when outgunned.
That is, if Jones’ second defense at Tennessee wants to succeed next season.
“I feel a little more comfortable on offense,” Jones said. “Defensively, a long ways to go.”
Jones said Moseley makes up for his small stature with his “smarts,” adding that Moseley has displayed eagerness to learn and improve this spring.
“He’s like a sponge, takes everything that coach (Willie) Martinez tells him, tries to apply it to his game,” Jones told IT. “We just need to get him bigger and stronger to compete at a high level come August and then into September and the football season.”
With*Justin Coleman*— who started opposite*Cameron Sutton*at cornerback last fall — making the move to nickelback, the second corner job was a mystery heading into camp and Moseley was an unlikely candidate to nab it.
Moseley has certainly surprised this spring.
Other than the Vols, the North Carolina native pocked offers from Eastern Carolina, Charlotte and N.C. Sate. He clocked back-to-back sub-4.4 40-yard dashed while at camp in Knoxville, and has been putting that speed to use.
“I really like what he’s brining to the table,” Jones said. “Like I said, though, he just needs to keep getting more physical.”
During the Vols’ second scrimmage last weekend, Moseley was beat by wideout*Jason Croom*down the sideline. Croom caught the pass at roughly the 30-yard line and carried the youngster into the end zone on his back.
While the scrimmage is a glaring example of Moseley’s need to get stronger, he isn’t alone in the lacking physicality department.
“Our entire secondary has to pick it up,” Jones said. “We’re no where near where we need to be.”
Jones said his biggest hope for his team’s upcoming scrimmage this Saturday is that the defense — Moseley included — improves its physicality.
“We must become a much better tackling defensive football team, that’s the reason we continue to make our quarterbacks live. Yeah, it’s for the quarterbacks, to see who can create plays, but it’s almost as much for our defense, to see who can create plays, tackle in space, keep our points on the quarterback when we pass rush,” Jones said. “So we need to see a much, much more physical football team; a team that can grind it and work through and compete and make plays.”
Change coming for Carr?
Jason Carr*may be moving positions soon.
There’s a strong possibility the 6-foot-5, 292-pound defensive tackle will be asked to make the transition to offensive tackle, Jones said Thursday.
Carr, a sophomore, appeared briefly in three games last season and has yet to see impactful reps at defensive line this spring.
Jones said the coaching staff has been considering moving Carr for “awhile.”
Mixon Searching for mentality
MIXONLike most early enrollees, freshman defensive linemen*Dimarya Mixon*has showed ups and downs this spring.
Mixon, a former Scout three-star, was recently moved from defensive end to defensive tackle to aid depth in the interior.
Jones said Mixon has met the physical standards, but is still searching for consistency and finding a “tough mindset.”
“It’s a mentality. You have to bring it every day,” Jones said. “…You don’t just show up and practice. You have to prepare each and every day. Again, it’s those habits we’re trying to create with this football team.”
Cemented at center
Redshirt junior*Mack Crowder*has a strong hold on the starting center position, but his backup is less clear.
Jones said Thursday sophomore Dylan Wiesman would be next in line should Crowder go down, but added that several players have been getting reps at the position.
Freshman*Ray Raulerson*has seen most of his snaps at center, but has struggled with “consistency” this spring.
With a swift head fake, the*Tennessee*wideout briefly ducked inside before turning and bolting to the back corner of the end zone.
Ball in air, North — all 6-foot-4, 225 pounds of him — leaped, threw his hands toward the sky and trapped a pass between his catcher’s mitt-sized paws.
But only for a moment.
Emmanuel Moseley*— all 5-foot-10, 160 pounds of him — jarred the ball from the grasp of the former freshman All-American with a swift punch.
Moseley may be small, wiry and young, but Tennessee coach Butch Jones said Thursday the freshman cornerback has stood out this spring and is a serious contender to start next fall.
“(Moseley) continually impresses,” Jones told InsideTennessee. “He’s competitive, fights for the ball in the air.”
Moseley was overmatched physically Thursday during the one-on-one drill against North. He better get used to the feeling. And he better get used to winning when outgunned.
That is, if Jones’ second defense at Tennessee wants to succeed next season.
“I feel a little more comfortable on offense,” Jones said. “Defensively, a long ways to go.”
Jones said Moseley makes up for his small stature with his “smarts,” adding that Moseley has displayed eagerness to learn and improve this spring.
“He’s like a sponge, takes everything that coach (Willie) Martinez tells him, tries to apply it to his game,” Jones told IT. “We just need to get him bigger and stronger to compete at a high level come August and then into September and the football season.”
With*Justin Coleman*— who started opposite*Cameron Sutton*at cornerback last fall — making the move to nickelback, the second corner job was a mystery heading into camp and Moseley was an unlikely candidate to nab it.
Moseley has certainly surprised this spring.
Other than the Vols, the North Carolina native pocked offers from Eastern Carolina, Charlotte and N.C. Sate. He clocked back-to-back sub-4.4 40-yard dashed while at camp in Knoxville, and has been putting that speed to use.
“I really like what he’s brining to the table,” Jones said. “Like I said, though, he just needs to keep getting more physical.”
During the Vols’ second scrimmage last weekend, Moseley was beat by wideout*Jason Croom*down the sideline. Croom caught the pass at roughly the 30-yard line and carried the youngster into the end zone on his back.
While the scrimmage is a glaring example of Moseley’s need to get stronger, he isn’t alone in the lacking physicality department.
“Our entire secondary has to pick it up,” Jones said. “We’re no where near where we need to be.”
Jones said his biggest hope for his team’s upcoming scrimmage this Saturday is that the defense — Moseley included — improves its physicality.
“We must become a much better tackling defensive football team, that’s the reason we continue to make our quarterbacks live. Yeah, it’s for the quarterbacks, to see who can create plays, but it’s almost as much for our defense, to see who can create plays, tackle in space, keep our points on the quarterback when we pass rush,” Jones said. “So we need to see a much, much more physical football team; a team that can grind it and work through and compete and make plays.”
Change coming for Carr?
Jason Carr*may be moving positions soon.
There’s a strong possibility the 6-foot-5, 292-pound defensive tackle will be asked to make the transition to offensive tackle, Jones said Thursday.
Carr, a sophomore, appeared briefly in three games last season and has yet to see impactful reps at defensive line this spring.
Jones said the coaching staff has been considering moving Carr for “awhile.”
Mixon Searching for mentality
MIXONLike most early enrollees, freshman defensive linemen*Dimarya Mixon*has showed ups and downs this spring.
Mixon, a former Scout three-star, was recently moved from defensive end to defensive tackle to aid depth in the interior.
Jones said Mixon has met the physical standards, but is still searching for consistency and finding a “tough mindset.”
“It’s a mentality. You have to bring it every day,” Jones said. “…You don’t just show up and practice. You have to prepare each and every day. Again, it’s those habits we’re trying to create with this football team.”
Cemented at center
Redshirt junior*Mack Crowder*has a strong hold on the starting center position, but his backup is less clear.
Jones said Thursday sophomore Dylan Wiesman would be next in line should Crowder go down, but added that several players have been getting reps at the position.
Freshman*Ray Raulerson*has seen most of his snaps at center, but has struggled with “consistency” this spring.
wU-Tang Vol
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— The usual bunch were in yellow no-contact jerseys: Brendan Downs, A.J. Branisel, Drae Bowles, Ryan Jenkins, Trevarris Saulsberry and Brian Randolph. Justin Coleman was in green jerseys.
*
— No newcomer has their black stripe removed.
*
—Tennessee verbal commit and Maryville (Tenn) High School product Dylan Jackson was on hand.
*
—Swarms of coaches from high schools around the state crowded the sidelines of Haslam Field.
*
—Several former Vols were attended Thyrsday's practice. Included were J.J. Surlas, Todd Kirk and Chris Treece.
*
—Butch Jones began practice with several one-on-one drills. First up was the Circle of Life. Here are the matchups: Brett Kendrick vs. Kendal Vickers, Justus Pickettvs. Neiko Creamer, Marcus Jackson vs. Dimarya Mixon, Kyler Kerbyson vs. Mixon, Jackson vs. Mixon and Jordan Williams vs. Dylan Wiesman.
*
—Next up, Jones rushed the team to the 10-yard line for one-on-one, wideouts vs. defensive backs drills. Here’s what happened: Josh Malone faced Cameron Sutton, but the ball was well overthrown, Jason Croom jumped to catch a ball above the reach of LaDarrell McNeil, freshman Emmanuel Moseley tallied an impressive breakup against Marquez North in the corner of the end zone, Malik Foreman was forced to hold Von Pearson on a slat route and drew a flag, tight end Alex Ellis beat Max Arnold for the score.
*
—Players then re-huddled for one-on-one pass blocking drills. Jones only called out one matchup: Dontavius Blair vs. Corey Vereen. Blair beat Vereen Tuesday, but held Vereen has he rushed the edge this time.
*
From the offense:*—Marlin Lane was not at practice.
*—Walk-on Jacob Gilliam is still working as the first-team left tackle.
*
—Wideout Cody Blanc made several nice catches during route-running drills, drawing praise from coach Zach Azzanni.
*
—Azzanni had his group run through a jump ball drill, putting a receiver between two receivers posing as corners and lobbing a ball up for grabs. North and Pearson stood out in the group. In one rep, slotman Johnathon Johnson was sandwiched between North and Croom. Azzanni said, “Sorry, buddy. I just put you between the two tallest corners the SEC has ever seen.”
*
*
From the defense:*—Vereen is still wearing a No. 50 jersey with the name “Manning” stitched on back.
*
—JaRon Toney, Lemond Johnson, Devaun Swafford, Max Arnold and McNeil worked with the safeties.
*
—Curt Maggitt again worked with the defensive linemen.
*
—Jason Car is wearing a cost on his right hand. *
*
—Sophomore safety Lemond Johnson dropped a couple of balls in a backpedal/interception drill. Senior nickel back JaRon Toney also had a drop.
*
From special teams:*—Devrin Young, Pearson, North, Malone and Johnson worked as the kickoff returners.
*
—Redshirt freshman Kendall Vickers put blocked walk-on running back Chris Beck off his feet in a kickoff coverage drill.
*
— No newcomer has their black stripe removed.
*
—Tennessee verbal commit and Maryville (Tenn) High School product Dylan Jackson was on hand.
*
—Swarms of coaches from high schools around the state crowded the sidelines of Haslam Field.
*
—Several former Vols were attended Thyrsday's practice. Included were J.J. Surlas, Todd Kirk and Chris Treece.
*
—Butch Jones began practice with several one-on-one drills. First up was the Circle of Life. Here are the matchups: Brett Kendrick vs. Kendal Vickers, Justus Pickettvs. Neiko Creamer, Marcus Jackson vs. Dimarya Mixon, Kyler Kerbyson vs. Mixon, Jackson vs. Mixon and Jordan Williams vs. Dylan Wiesman.
*
—Next up, Jones rushed the team to the 10-yard line for one-on-one, wideouts vs. defensive backs drills. Here’s what happened: Josh Malone faced Cameron Sutton, but the ball was well overthrown, Jason Croom jumped to catch a ball above the reach of LaDarrell McNeil, freshman Emmanuel Moseley tallied an impressive breakup against Marquez North in the corner of the end zone, Malik Foreman was forced to hold Von Pearson on a slat route and drew a flag, tight end Alex Ellis beat Max Arnold for the score.
*
—Players then re-huddled for one-on-one pass blocking drills. Jones only called out one matchup: Dontavius Blair vs. Corey Vereen. Blair beat Vereen Tuesday, but held Vereen has he rushed the edge this time.
*
From the offense:*—Marlin Lane was not at practice.
*—Walk-on Jacob Gilliam is still working as the first-team left tackle.
*
—Wideout Cody Blanc made several nice catches during route-running drills, drawing praise from coach Zach Azzanni.
*
—Azzanni had his group run through a jump ball drill, putting a receiver between two receivers posing as corners and lobbing a ball up for grabs. North and Pearson stood out in the group. In one rep, slotman Johnathon Johnson was sandwiched between North and Croom. Azzanni said, “Sorry, buddy. I just put you between the two tallest corners the SEC has ever seen.”
*
*
From the defense:*—Vereen is still wearing a No. 50 jersey with the name “Manning” stitched on back.
*
—JaRon Toney, Lemond Johnson, Devaun Swafford, Max Arnold and McNeil worked with the safeties.
*
—Curt Maggitt again worked with the defensive linemen.
*
—Jason Car is wearing a cost on his right hand. *
*
—Sophomore safety Lemond Johnson dropped a couple of balls in a backpedal/interception drill. Senior nickel back JaRon Toney also had a drop.
*
From special teams:*—Devrin Young, Pearson, North, Malone and Johnson worked as the kickoff returners.
*
—Redshirt freshman Kendall Vickers put blocked walk-on running back Chris Beck off his feet in a kickoff coverage drill.
Scotty's Flat Top
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My hometown high school is an Adidas school, I know the coaches really well. They say Butch Jones treats them like royalty on their visits.
wU-Tang Vol
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- Jul 31, 2013
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Fans call Tennessee “Wide Receiver U” with good reason.
Even coach Butch Jones says it’s fitting, but it could be time to rethink the school’s unofficial nickname.
“We are Wide Receiver U here, yes, but when you look around at it we could also be O-line U,” Jones said in an exclusive interview with InsideTennessee.
There’s a chance five former Tennessee offensive linemen are selected in May’s NFL Draft. Jones says he’s very proud of the group, but would be lying if he said it wasn’t a great marketing tool for future recruitment.
“It should be a great illustration of what we have at Tennessee. You know, those offensive linemen, I’m exceptionally proud of them,” Jones told IT. “That may have broke the record yesterday for the longest offensive line work out. … all five guys did a tremendous job. It’s a tribute to them and everyone else around them as well.”
With 14 newcomers taking the practice field for the Vols this spring, Tennessee immediately injected its roster with a jolt of play-making ability — especially at the wide receiver position.
While Josh Malone and Von Pearson are praised for their ability to stretch defenses as receivers, they also could pose a threat in the return game. Both have been getting work with the punt returners and kickoff returners.
“They’re explosive. They have natural talent,” special teams coach Mark Elder said. “Of course they can make an impact there.”
Devrin Young doesn’t feel the same way. He views returning duties as his and only his.
“I feel like it’s mine,” Young said. “I made a joke to coach (Robert Gillepsie) only a first-year Oro Bowler could take it from me. If you ain’t that, it’s going to be me back there.”
Tennessee wideout Malone arrived on campus with sky-high expectations and is just starting to show signs of how special he can be in his college career.
Malone struggled during Tennessee’s first spring scrimmage, but wide receivers coach Zach Azzanni said after that day Malone has been making “huge” strides.
“I’ve seen a steady improvement. You know, after those first spring practices he hit a wall. But after that scrimmage on Saturday, I think he was a little overwhelmed. Since that day I think he’s really, really come along,” Azzanni said. “Long way to go. But boy oh boy, you see some flashes. …If he keeps improving at the level he’s improving, he’ll be a very special player here.”
Azzanni’s meeting room has certainly improved talent wise. Last fall, Azzanni was often the loudest coach on the practice field – yelling, teaching and screaming. There’s been a considerable drop in that this spring. Asked if he’s having fun this season, Azzanni could only chuckle.
“No doubt,” he said. “I’m having a blast, and you can’t always say that. This is going to be a great year.”
Some of the top numbers from Tennessee Pro Day: Corey Miller bench pressed 225 pounds 33 times, Rajion Neal timed at 4.5 in the 40-yard dash and Neal logged a vertical leap of 38 inches (Jacques Smith 36 1/2).
A fairly large crowd is expected for Saturday’s scrimmage at Neyland Stadium with the coaches clinic taking place this weekend, student appreciation day and faculty invites. It should be a baby step toward preparing for the decently solid crowd that should arrive for the Dish Network Orange & White game on April 12.
Even coach Butch Jones says it’s fitting, but it could be time to rethink the school’s unofficial nickname.
“We are Wide Receiver U here, yes, but when you look around at it we could also be O-line U,” Jones said in an exclusive interview with InsideTennessee.
There’s a chance five former Tennessee offensive linemen are selected in May’s NFL Draft. Jones says he’s very proud of the group, but would be lying if he said it wasn’t a great marketing tool for future recruitment.
“It should be a great illustration of what we have at Tennessee. You know, those offensive linemen, I’m exceptionally proud of them,” Jones told IT. “That may have broke the record yesterday for the longest offensive line work out. … all five guys did a tremendous job. It’s a tribute to them and everyone else around them as well.”
With 14 newcomers taking the practice field for the Vols this spring, Tennessee immediately injected its roster with a jolt of play-making ability — especially at the wide receiver position.
While Josh Malone and Von Pearson are praised for their ability to stretch defenses as receivers, they also could pose a threat in the return game. Both have been getting work with the punt returners and kickoff returners.
“They’re explosive. They have natural talent,” special teams coach Mark Elder said. “Of course they can make an impact there.”
Devrin Young doesn’t feel the same way. He views returning duties as his and only his.
“I feel like it’s mine,” Young said. “I made a joke to coach (Robert Gillepsie) only a first-year Oro Bowler could take it from me. If you ain’t that, it’s going to be me back there.”
Tennessee wideout Malone arrived on campus with sky-high expectations and is just starting to show signs of how special he can be in his college career.
Malone struggled during Tennessee’s first spring scrimmage, but wide receivers coach Zach Azzanni said after that day Malone has been making “huge” strides.
“I’ve seen a steady improvement. You know, after those first spring practices he hit a wall. But after that scrimmage on Saturday, I think he was a little overwhelmed. Since that day I think he’s really, really come along,” Azzanni said. “Long way to go. But boy oh boy, you see some flashes. …If he keeps improving at the level he’s improving, he’ll be a very special player here.”
Azzanni’s meeting room has certainly improved talent wise. Last fall, Azzanni was often the loudest coach on the practice field – yelling, teaching and screaming. There’s been a considerable drop in that this spring. Asked if he’s having fun this season, Azzanni could only chuckle.
“No doubt,” he said. “I’m having a blast, and you can’t always say that. This is going to be a great year.”
Some of the top numbers from Tennessee Pro Day: Corey Miller bench pressed 225 pounds 33 times, Rajion Neal timed at 4.5 in the 40-yard dash and Neal logged a vertical leap of 38 inches (Jacques Smith 36 1/2).
A fairly large crowd is expected for Saturday’s scrimmage at Neyland Stadium with the coaches clinic taking place this weekend, student appreciation day and faculty invites. It should be a baby step toward preparing for the decently solid crowd that should arrive for the Dish Network Orange & White game on April 12.
wU-Tang Vol
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- Jul 31, 2013
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Notes:*—Offensive guard Austin Sanders was did not dress or participate in the scrimmage
*
—Wideout Jacob Carter has an air boot on his right leg.
*
From the scrimmage:*—Tennessee’s first-team offense consisted of Justin Worley, Marlin Lane, Von Pearson, Ethan Wolf, Marquez North, Jacob Gilliam, Marcus Jackson, Mack Crowder, Kyler Kerbyson and Coleman Thomas.
*
—The first-team defense was Emmannuel Moseley, Cameron Sutton, Lemond Johnson, LaDarrell McNeil, Justin Coleman, Jalen Reeves-Maybin, A.J. Johnson, Curt Maggitt, Jordan Williams, Danny O’Brien and Corey Vereen.
*
—Worley put some impressive touch on a back-shoulder pass to Marquez North that was good for a gain of a little more than 20 yards. Worley was hurried on the next from a blitz off the* edge from Johnson and Coleman. George Bullock missed a 49-yard attempt wide right, but the kick had the distance.
*
—Joshua Dobbs flared a screen pass to Devrin Young, who scampered for a gain of 30 yards. Dobbs was sacked by Dimarya Mixon on the* next play to force a third and 15. On the third down play, Dobbs fired a pass that feel harmlessly to the turf with no receiver even close.
*
—Lane picked up a first down on the first play of Riley Ferguson’s first drive. On the very next play, Ferguson rolled to his right and threw an interception to Reeves-Maybin.
*
—Nathan Peterman handed to Jalen Hurd on the first two plays to pick up a first down. After an incompletion, Peterman hit Cody Blanc down the left sideline for a gain of 40 yards. LaTroy Lewis tackled Peterman for a loss on a zone-read keeper. Jakob Johnson sacked Peterman for a loss of 5 on the next play to set up a 38-yard field goal from Derrick Brodus.
*
—O’Brien and Corey Vereen teamed to sack Worley on the first play. The offense would recover, though, as Worley found Pearson wide open in the back of the end zone for a 15-yard score.
*
—Ferguson handed to Hurd on the first two plays, which resulted in a 1-yard gain and a loss of two. Left tackle Dontavius Blair was beat bad by Lewis, forcing Ferguson to scramble for a gain of 4 yards. Ferguson missed Josh Smith in the corner of the endzone on third down. He had Daniel Helm wide open in the middle of the end zone.
*
—Ferguson missed on a fade route to North in left corner of the end zone, but Moseley was flagged for pass interference to get up first and goal from the 5. Williams then dropped Ferguson for a loss of 5 yards. Ferguson was sacked again on the next play by a host of defenders. Brodus hit on a 42-yarder.
*
—Worley gave to Young, who bolted off right tackle to record a 12-yard touchdown run.
*
*
—Sutton made a nice play on a fade pass to Malone, breaking up what looked to be a sure touchdown pass from Worley. Worley looked to Malone on the very next play and Moseley was flagged for pass interference.
*
*
—On Worley’s drive, Lane was tackled for no gain on back-to-back plays. Jones broke up a fade pass to North. Bullock missed from 20 yards.*
*Ball on the 43-yard line going in…—Ferguson gave to Pearson on an end-around, resulting in a gain of 15-yards. But the gain was negated by a holding penalty called on Alex Ellis. Vereen stuffed Lane in the backfield on the next play. Ferguson rolled right and forced a throw over the middle that should have been intercepted by A.J. Johnson, but he dropped it. Bullock made a 40-yarder.
*
—Dobbs avoided some pressure off the edge and found Wolf for a gain of 24 yards. After a few runs from Hurd, Dobbs capped the drive with a 3-yard touchdown on a zone-read keeper.
*
—A.J. Johnson sacked Worley on a playaction pass on the first play for a loss of 10. Jacob Gillliam was beat badly by Vereen, but Worley stepped up to avoid the pressure and found Malone for a first down. A Malone drop and a 4-yard gain from Lane set up a fourth and 6 from the 37 yard line. Worley rolled right and threw to a wide open North, but the pass was dropped.
*
—Ferguson hit Johnathon Johnson on a slant route for again of 10 yards. Ferguson then bolted for a gain of 12 yards on a zone-read keeper, but it was called back because of an illegal procedure called on Johnathon Johnson. Ferguson then made his best throw of the afternoon, hitting Josh Smith for a 33 yard touchdown in the right corner of the end zone.
*
—Ferguson stayed on the field for the next drive and picked up 10 yards with his legs on a broken play. Young took a handoff off right tackle and gained 12 yards. After a defensive offsides call set up a first and goal situations, Hurd fumbled a handoff and Vereen jumped on the loose ball.
*
—Worley handed to Young on the first play, which resulted in a gain of 12 yards. Worley then teamed with Blanc for the play of the scrimmage, floating a pass down the right sideline for a 36-yard touchdown pass. Blanc left his feat and dove for the ball.
*
*
—Worley scored on a zone-read keeper.
*
—Lewis sacked Peterman on a play-actoin pass. But the offense recovered. Peterman hit Josh Smith for a 12-yard touchdown pass.
*
—Ferguson hit Wolf in the corner of the end zone off a play-action pass.
*
*
—Butch Jones took to his microphone to announce that three seconds would be put on the clock to set up a last play situation. He said the offense trailed by four points and would attempt to score from the 18-yard line, then from the 12, 8 and 3 yard lines.
*
—From the 18: Worley bought some time with his legs and threw to a wide open Malone in the back corner of the end zone, but Malone dropped the pass.
*
—From the 12: Johnson ripped the ball out of Pearson’s hands in the back corner of the end zone.
*
—From the 8: Worley over threw a slant pass to North.
*
—From the 3: North dropped a pass from Worley.
*
—From the 18: Ferguson threw an interception to Riyahd Jones.
*
—From the 12: Ferguson was flushed out of the pocked, but ran out of bounds. He was screamed at by Jones afterwards.
*
—From the 8: Peterman took over after Ferguson’s mistake, but his pass was tipped at the line of scrimmage.
*
—From the 3: Peterman handed to Young, but he was stuffed in the backfield for a loss.
*Special Teams notes:*—The first-team kickoff unit currently consists of Emmanuel Moseley, Cameron Sutton, Lemond Johnson, Jalen Reeves-Maybin, Deanthonie Summerhill, A.J. Johnson, LaDarrell McNeil, Jakob Johnson, Justin Coleman and Malik Foreman
*
—The first-team kickoff return unit was Devrin Young, JaRon Toney, Ethan Wolf, Jason Croom, LaTroy Lewis, Riyahd Jones, Cody Blanc, Deanthonie Summerhill, LaDarrell McNeil, Malik Foreman and Jalen Reeves-Maybin.
*
—During a first-team punt drill, Sutton fielded the punt and took it 64-yards for the score.*
*
—Wideout Jacob Carter has an air boot on his right leg.
*
From the scrimmage:*—Tennessee’s first-team offense consisted of Justin Worley, Marlin Lane, Von Pearson, Ethan Wolf, Marquez North, Jacob Gilliam, Marcus Jackson, Mack Crowder, Kyler Kerbyson and Coleman Thomas.
*
—The first-team defense was Emmannuel Moseley, Cameron Sutton, Lemond Johnson, LaDarrell McNeil, Justin Coleman, Jalen Reeves-Maybin, A.J. Johnson, Curt Maggitt, Jordan Williams, Danny O’Brien and Corey Vereen.
*
—Worley put some impressive touch on a back-shoulder pass to Marquez North that was good for a gain of a little more than 20 yards. Worley was hurried on the next from a blitz off the* edge from Johnson and Coleman. George Bullock missed a 49-yard attempt wide right, but the kick had the distance.
*
—Joshua Dobbs flared a screen pass to Devrin Young, who scampered for a gain of 30 yards. Dobbs was sacked by Dimarya Mixon on the* next play to force a third and 15. On the third down play, Dobbs fired a pass that feel harmlessly to the turf with no receiver even close.
*
—Lane picked up a first down on the first play of Riley Ferguson’s first drive. On the very next play, Ferguson rolled to his right and threw an interception to Reeves-Maybin.
*
—Nathan Peterman handed to Jalen Hurd on the first two plays to pick up a first down. After an incompletion, Peterman hit Cody Blanc down the left sideline for a gain of 40 yards. LaTroy Lewis tackled Peterman for a loss on a zone-read keeper. Jakob Johnson sacked Peterman for a loss of 5 on the next play to set up a 38-yard field goal from Derrick Brodus.
*
—O’Brien and Corey Vereen teamed to sack Worley on the first play. The offense would recover, though, as Worley found Pearson wide open in the back of the end zone for a 15-yard score.
*
—Ferguson handed to Hurd on the first two plays, which resulted in a 1-yard gain and a loss of two. Left tackle Dontavius Blair was beat bad by Lewis, forcing Ferguson to scramble for a gain of 4 yards. Ferguson missed Josh Smith in the corner of the endzone on third down. He had Daniel Helm wide open in the middle of the end zone.
*
—Ferguson missed on a fade route to North in left corner of the end zone, but Moseley was flagged for pass interference to get up first and goal from the 5. Williams then dropped Ferguson for a loss of 5 yards. Ferguson was sacked again on the next play by a host of defenders. Brodus hit on a 42-yarder.
*
—Worley gave to Young, who bolted off right tackle to record a 12-yard touchdown run.
*
*
—Sutton made a nice play on a fade pass to Malone, breaking up what looked to be a sure touchdown pass from Worley. Worley looked to Malone on the very next play and Moseley was flagged for pass interference.
*
*
—On Worley’s drive, Lane was tackled for no gain on back-to-back plays. Jones broke up a fade pass to North. Bullock missed from 20 yards.*
*Ball on the 43-yard line going in…—Ferguson gave to Pearson on an end-around, resulting in a gain of 15-yards. But the gain was negated by a holding penalty called on Alex Ellis. Vereen stuffed Lane in the backfield on the next play. Ferguson rolled right and forced a throw over the middle that should have been intercepted by A.J. Johnson, but he dropped it. Bullock made a 40-yarder.
*
—Dobbs avoided some pressure off the edge and found Wolf for a gain of 24 yards. After a few runs from Hurd, Dobbs capped the drive with a 3-yard touchdown on a zone-read keeper.
*
—A.J. Johnson sacked Worley on a playaction pass on the first play for a loss of 10. Jacob Gillliam was beat badly by Vereen, but Worley stepped up to avoid the pressure and found Malone for a first down. A Malone drop and a 4-yard gain from Lane set up a fourth and 6 from the 37 yard line. Worley rolled right and threw to a wide open North, but the pass was dropped.
*
—Ferguson hit Johnathon Johnson on a slant route for again of 10 yards. Ferguson then bolted for a gain of 12 yards on a zone-read keeper, but it was called back because of an illegal procedure called on Johnathon Johnson. Ferguson then made his best throw of the afternoon, hitting Josh Smith for a 33 yard touchdown in the right corner of the end zone.
*
—Ferguson stayed on the field for the next drive and picked up 10 yards with his legs on a broken play. Young took a handoff off right tackle and gained 12 yards. After a defensive offsides call set up a first and goal situations, Hurd fumbled a handoff and Vereen jumped on the loose ball.
*
—Worley handed to Young on the first play, which resulted in a gain of 12 yards. Worley then teamed with Blanc for the play of the scrimmage, floating a pass down the right sideline for a 36-yard touchdown pass. Blanc left his feat and dove for the ball.
*
*
—Worley scored on a zone-read keeper.
*
—Lewis sacked Peterman on a play-actoin pass. But the offense recovered. Peterman hit Josh Smith for a 12-yard touchdown pass.
*
—Ferguson hit Wolf in the corner of the end zone off a play-action pass.
*
*
—Butch Jones took to his microphone to announce that three seconds would be put on the clock to set up a last play situation. He said the offense trailed by four points and would attempt to score from the 18-yard line, then from the 12, 8 and 3 yard lines.
*
—From the 18: Worley bought some time with his legs and threw to a wide open Malone in the back corner of the end zone, but Malone dropped the pass.
*
—From the 12: Johnson ripped the ball out of Pearson’s hands in the back corner of the end zone.
*
—From the 8: Worley over threw a slant pass to North.
*
—From the 3: North dropped a pass from Worley.
*
—From the 18: Ferguson threw an interception to Riyahd Jones.
*
—From the 12: Ferguson was flushed out of the pocked, but ran out of bounds. He was screamed at by Jones afterwards.
*
—From the 8: Peterman took over after Ferguson’s mistake, but his pass was tipped at the line of scrimmage.
*
—From the 3: Peterman handed to Young, but he was stuffed in the backfield for a loss.
*Special Teams notes:*—The first-team kickoff unit currently consists of Emmanuel Moseley, Cameron Sutton, Lemond Johnson, Jalen Reeves-Maybin, Deanthonie Summerhill, A.J. Johnson, LaDarrell McNeil, Jakob Johnson, Justin Coleman and Malik Foreman
*
—The first-team kickoff return unit was Devrin Young, JaRon Toney, Ethan Wolf, Jason Croom, LaTroy Lewis, Riyahd Jones, Cody Blanc, Deanthonie Summerhill, LaDarrell McNeil, Malik Foreman and Jalen Reeves-Maybin.
*
—During a first-team punt drill, Sutton fielded the punt and took it 64-yards for the score.*
wU-Tang Vol
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The newcomers to*Tennessee's football team are making quite a statement without speaking a word.
Tennessee hasn't made any of its early enrollees available to the media thus far in spring practice, but the first-year players already are making their presence felt. They're the products of a signing class ranked among the top five in the nation by multiple recruiting services.
Several newcomers are challenging for starting roles on a team lacking experience at key positions.
"It's where we're at in the program," Tennessee coach Butch Jones said. "We can't hide it. It is what it is. But I'm encouraged by their youthfulness, their eagerness and the talent that we have and the talent we have coming in."
The newcomers getting much of the attention, due to the positions they play, are running back*Jalen Hurd*and receivers*Josh Malone*and*Von Pearson. They should instantly upgrade the big-play ability of Tennessee's offense.
Hurd should form a one-two punch in the backfield with senior running back*Marlin Lane. Hurd and Malone are freshmen who were rated as five-star prospects by at least one recruiting service.
Pearson, a transfer from Feather River College in Quincy, Calif., showed his big-play ability by making a spectacular one-handed touchdown catch with a defensive back grabbing his jersey during a spring one-on-one drill. Tennessee's sports information department put a clip of the catch on YouTube, where it's been viewed nearly 90,000 times.
"With Von and Josh, just getting them on the right page first was the big thing," senior quarterback*Justin Worleysaid. "Now that they've kind of grasped the offense better, they've been able to go out there and play more fluidly and consistently for us. They've started making some big plays for us. It's good to have them here now instead of (arriving) in the summer."
They're not the only new faces who could play right away.
Tennessee must replace its entire starting offensive line from last season. Senior linebacker*A.J. Johnson*is the only returning starter from last year's front seven on defense. The Volunteers are counting on newcomers to plug many of those holes.
MOSELEY"I don't think I've ever been a part of a program where you have to rely on so many newcomers at one or two particular positions," Jones said. "Usually your newcomers that are playing, (there are) a couple at one position, a couple at this position, a couple at that position. There's no secret (here). They're going to have to play at linebacker. They're going to definitely have to play on the defensive line and the offensive line. ... Throw in it's the SEC, which is an unforgiving conference up front."
On offense, freshman*Coleman Thomas*has been working as the first-team right tackle all spring. Garden City (Kan.) Community College transfer*Dontavius Blair*is competing with senior*Jacob Gilliam*at left tackle. Freshmen*Daniel Helm*and*Ethan Wolf*have stood out at tight end, where the Vols didn't get much production last season.
On defense, the Vols need Butler (Kan.) Community College transfer*Owen Williams*and freshman*Dimarya Mixon*to contribute immediately on the line. Freshman cornerbackEmmanuel Moseley*has spent time working with the first-team secondary.
"They're going to bring a lot to the table," sophomore cornerback Cam Sutton said of the newcomers. "You can see that now during the spring. Guys are making plays on both sides, offense and defense. And it's going to roll over into the season."
Jones expects this highly touted recruiting class to continue paying dividends when the rest of the first-year players arrive this summer.
"The great thing is we'll welcome 18 newcomers in June," Jones said. "It will almost be like starting the process over again. A lot of them will have to play as true freshmen. They have no choice. That's where we're at."
Tennessee hasn't made any of its early enrollees available to the media thus far in spring practice, but the first-year players already are making their presence felt. They're the products of a signing class ranked among the top five in the nation by multiple recruiting services.
Several newcomers are challenging for starting roles on a team lacking experience at key positions.
"It's where we're at in the program," Tennessee coach Butch Jones said. "We can't hide it. It is what it is. But I'm encouraged by their youthfulness, their eagerness and the talent that we have and the talent we have coming in."
The newcomers getting much of the attention, due to the positions they play, are running back*Jalen Hurd*and receivers*Josh Malone*and*Von Pearson. They should instantly upgrade the big-play ability of Tennessee's offense.
Hurd should form a one-two punch in the backfield with senior running back*Marlin Lane. Hurd and Malone are freshmen who were rated as five-star prospects by at least one recruiting service.
Pearson, a transfer from Feather River College in Quincy, Calif., showed his big-play ability by making a spectacular one-handed touchdown catch with a defensive back grabbing his jersey during a spring one-on-one drill. Tennessee's sports information department put a clip of the catch on YouTube, where it's been viewed nearly 90,000 times.
"With Von and Josh, just getting them on the right page first was the big thing," senior quarterback*Justin Worleysaid. "Now that they've kind of grasped the offense better, they've been able to go out there and play more fluidly and consistently for us. They've started making some big plays for us. It's good to have them here now instead of (arriving) in the summer."
They're not the only new faces who could play right away.
Tennessee must replace its entire starting offensive line from last season. Senior linebacker*A.J. Johnson*is the only returning starter from last year's front seven on defense. The Volunteers are counting on newcomers to plug many of those holes.
MOSELEY"I don't think I've ever been a part of a program where you have to rely on so many newcomers at one or two particular positions," Jones said. "Usually your newcomers that are playing, (there are) a couple at one position, a couple at this position, a couple at that position. There's no secret (here). They're going to have to play at linebacker. They're going to definitely have to play on the defensive line and the offensive line. ... Throw in it's the SEC, which is an unforgiving conference up front."
On offense, freshman*Coleman Thomas*has been working as the first-team right tackle all spring. Garden City (Kan.) Community College transfer*Dontavius Blair*is competing with senior*Jacob Gilliam*at left tackle. Freshmen*Daniel Helm*and*Ethan Wolf*have stood out at tight end, where the Vols didn't get much production last season.
On defense, the Vols need Butler (Kan.) Community College transfer*Owen Williams*and freshman*Dimarya Mixon*to contribute immediately on the line. Freshman cornerbackEmmanuel Moseley*has spent time working with the first-team secondary.
"They're going to bring a lot to the table," sophomore cornerback Cam Sutton said of the newcomers. "You can see that now during the spring. Guys are making plays on both sides, offense and defense. And it's going to roll over into the season."
Jones expects this highly touted recruiting class to continue paying dividends when the rest of the first-year players arrive this summer.
"The great thing is we'll welcome 18 newcomers in June," Jones said. "It will almost be like starting the process over again. A lot of them will have to play as true freshmen. They have no choice. That's where we're at."
wU-Tang Vol
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As film studies and weight lifting sessions came to an end Friday,*Curt Maggitt*gathered his defensive teammates for a meeting.
Enough was enough.
“Yesterday we decided as a defense — as a unit — we were going to pick it up,” Maggitt told InsideTennessee. “We wanted to recommit ourselves. We wanted to play with more energy.”
It certainly showed Saturday.
After being challenged by coach Butch Jones to play more physically for the last two weeks, the defense answered the call during*Tennessee’s third scrimmage of spring camp.
“I can honestly say the past few practices weren’t good as a defense. We were fatigued,” Maggitt said. “Today, we came out with effort and it showed.”
The defense held the offense in check throughout the afternoon, forcing three and outs, long field goal attempts and tallying two turnovers.
Defensive end*Jordan Williams*credits the improved effort to that Friday meeting, saying the talk made younger players realize they needed to be playing with a increased “sense of urgency.”
“We only have like… 30 practices left before the season. That’s not a lot. We have to take each day seriously and get better,” Williams told IT. “We just have to get it together and get the energy flowing.”
Playing in front of hundreds of students and Tennessee faculty members in Neyland Stadium, defensive end*Corey Vereen*believes the improvement Friday was because the unit finally decided to let loose.
“Before, man, we were playing like afraid. I mean, we were just going through the motions,” Vereen said. “Today…we’re trying to attack. We’re not just trying to make plays, we’re trying to get after it.”
Maggitt agrees with Both Vereen and Williams, but also added another theory as to why the defensive unit played so much better than it had in the other two scrimmages.
A.J. Johnson*was back.
Johnson, the team’s leading tackler, was held out of last Saturday’s scrimmage for rest purposes and saw limited snaps in the mock game before that.
“It’s a big difference. He brings that spark,” Maggitt said. “Just to know he’s behind me, it’s a good feeling.”
Added Vereen: “It’s awesome to have (Johnson) out there. You know you’re with a professional when he’s out there. He knows what he’s doing. He’s relaxed. He’s cool. He’s calm. The calls come in quicker.”
Throughout the practice, the defensive line forced Tennessee’s four quarterbacks to leave the pocket and make throws while on the run.
Vereen recorded at least two sacks and several quarterback hurries on top of that.
But it wasn’t just the defensive line that stood out.
Aside from a few pass interference calls, the Vols’ secondary was solid as well.
Freshman cornerback*Emmanuel Moseley*and safetyLemond Johnson*broke up several would-be touchdown throws.
“It just felt like everyone had an edge,” Vereen said. “Everyone had a little pep.”
While all agree it was by far the best defensive showing of the spring, Maggitt said the key now becomes to keep improving and avoid being satisfied as the dog days of spring camp approach.
“We just have to keep building,” Maggitt said. “We hit that wall, but we’re pushing through it.”
Too many problems
PEARSONFreshman quarterback Riley Ferguson threw an interception and running back Jalen Hurd fumbled, but in Jones’ eyes Tennessee’s offense committed much more than two turnovers Saturday.
Vols wideouts dropped several passed during the scrimmage. Jones said in his up-tempo offensive system, a dropped pass is just as bad as a turnover.
“They’re at talented, but they’re still exceptionally young,” Jones said of his receivers. “They have to learn to attack the ball in the air.”
Jones, however, isn’t worried about those mistakes being fixed. He called wide receivers coach Zach Azzanni “the best in the country.”
Jones shows 'swagger'
Tennessee’s third scrimmage of spring was dubbed “Student and Faculty Appreciation Day,” which drew hundreds of spectators to Neyland Stadium.
But the real highlight of the afternoon came as practice neared its end.
Jones came over his microphone and invited students onto the field to huddle around the team’s field goal and punting drills.
Jones then gathered both players and students in a circle, addressed the group and then started dancing with the crowd as DJ “Stearl the Pearl” provided the tunes.
“You don’t see a lot of coaches doing that stuff,” Maggitt said. “He got swag. He the man. Coach Jones is the man.”
With a smile, freshman quarterback Ferguson said he’d give Jones’ dance moves a “B-plus.”
Enough was enough.
“Yesterday we decided as a defense — as a unit — we were going to pick it up,” Maggitt told InsideTennessee. “We wanted to recommit ourselves. We wanted to play with more energy.”
It certainly showed Saturday.
After being challenged by coach Butch Jones to play more physically for the last two weeks, the defense answered the call during*Tennessee’s third scrimmage of spring camp.
“I can honestly say the past few practices weren’t good as a defense. We were fatigued,” Maggitt said. “Today, we came out with effort and it showed.”
The defense held the offense in check throughout the afternoon, forcing three and outs, long field goal attempts and tallying two turnovers.
Defensive end*Jordan Williams*credits the improved effort to that Friday meeting, saying the talk made younger players realize they needed to be playing with a increased “sense of urgency.”
“We only have like… 30 practices left before the season. That’s not a lot. We have to take each day seriously and get better,” Williams told IT. “We just have to get it together and get the energy flowing.”
Playing in front of hundreds of students and Tennessee faculty members in Neyland Stadium, defensive end*Corey Vereen*believes the improvement Friday was because the unit finally decided to let loose.
“Before, man, we were playing like afraid. I mean, we were just going through the motions,” Vereen said. “Today…we’re trying to attack. We’re not just trying to make plays, we’re trying to get after it.”
Maggitt agrees with Both Vereen and Williams, but also added another theory as to why the defensive unit played so much better than it had in the other two scrimmages.
A.J. Johnson*was back.
Johnson, the team’s leading tackler, was held out of last Saturday’s scrimmage for rest purposes and saw limited snaps in the mock game before that.
“It’s a big difference. He brings that spark,” Maggitt said. “Just to know he’s behind me, it’s a good feeling.”
Added Vereen: “It’s awesome to have (Johnson) out there. You know you’re with a professional when he’s out there. He knows what he’s doing. He’s relaxed. He’s cool. He’s calm. The calls come in quicker.”
Throughout the practice, the defensive line forced Tennessee’s four quarterbacks to leave the pocket and make throws while on the run.
Vereen recorded at least two sacks and several quarterback hurries on top of that.
But it wasn’t just the defensive line that stood out.
Aside from a few pass interference calls, the Vols’ secondary was solid as well.
Freshman cornerback*Emmanuel Moseley*and safetyLemond Johnson*broke up several would-be touchdown throws.
“It just felt like everyone had an edge,” Vereen said. “Everyone had a little pep.”
While all agree it was by far the best defensive showing of the spring, Maggitt said the key now becomes to keep improving and avoid being satisfied as the dog days of spring camp approach.
“We just have to keep building,” Maggitt said. “We hit that wall, but we’re pushing through it.”
Too many problems
PEARSONFreshman quarterback Riley Ferguson threw an interception and running back Jalen Hurd fumbled, but in Jones’ eyes Tennessee’s offense committed much more than two turnovers Saturday.
Vols wideouts dropped several passed during the scrimmage. Jones said in his up-tempo offensive system, a dropped pass is just as bad as a turnover.
“They’re at talented, but they’re still exceptionally young,” Jones said of his receivers. “They have to learn to attack the ball in the air.”
Jones, however, isn’t worried about those mistakes being fixed. He called wide receivers coach Zach Azzanni “the best in the country.”
Jones shows 'swagger'
Tennessee’s third scrimmage of spring was dubbed “Student and Faculty Appreciation Day,” which drew hundreds of spectators to Neyland Stadium.
But the real highlight of the afternoon came as practice neared its end.
Jones came over his microphone and invited students onto the field to huddle around the team’s field goal and punting drills.
Jones then gathered both players and students in a circle, addressed the group and then started dancing with the crowd as DJ “Stearl the Pearl” provided the tunes.
“You don’t see a lot of coaches doing that stuff,” Maggitt said. “He got swag. He the man. Coach Jones is the man.”
With a smile, freshman quarterback Ferguson said he’d give Jones’ dance moves a “B-plus.”
NochNoch
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I don't think this is exactly ground breaking analysis but I do think this team will be improved, however inconsistent, all over the field.
The only problem is that the one spot where that isn't true is the OL and I'm scared how bad that unit is going to be.
The only problem is that the one spot where that isn't true is the OL and I'm scared how bad that unit is going to be.
wU-Tang Vol
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Near the end of Saturday’s situational scrimmageTennessee*quarterback*Justin Worley*threw an 18-yard touchdown strike to*Josh Malone*… who dropped it.
On the very next play Worley threw a 12-yard TD strike toVon Pearson*… who was stripped before he could secure ball.
Two plays later Worley threw a three-yard scoring strike toMarquez North*… who dropped it.
Fans who saw only those final two minutes of the scrimmaging probably think the Vols are hurting at wide receiver. Fans who saw the preceding 118 minutes know better. Drops aside, this could be one of the finest wideout corps Tennessee has ever fielded. The talent level is light-years ahead of last fall.
Pearson, the 6-foot-3, 189-pound junior college transfer, is a freak. He isn’t as thick as Vol predecessor*Cordarrelle Patterson(another JUCO transfer) but he’s just as elusive. In an open-field tackling drill he toyed with Vol defensive backs. A spin move left*LaDarrell McNeilon the turf, grasping nothing but air. After a second DB also whiffed, the third won a moral victory: He didn’t tackle Pearson but he at least got a hand on him as he whistled past.
In addition to his antics in the one-on-one tackling drill Pearson got free in the back of the end zone for a 15-yard touchdown pass from Worley and later deftly pushed offJustin Coleman*(without getting caught) for a 20-yard TD catch. Pearson also found time to pop an end-around for a 15-yard gain. He had another one for 50 yards but it was nullified by a holding penalty. Book it: Several SEC defensive backs will be getting whirlpool treatments come fall from wrenching their backs trying to bring down the elusive Mr. Pearson.
The other mid-term newcomer to Tennessee’s receiver corps, 6-foot-3, 202-pound freshman Josh Malone, showed some flashes. He made cornerback*Malik Foreman*whiff during the one-on-one tackling drill and also caught a three-yard touchdown toss from*Riley Ferguson.
Massive*Jason Croom*is learning how to exploit his incredible size (6-feet-4, 234 pounds), although he didn’t make a lot of plays in Saturday’s scrimmage.
Three wideouts most fans probably have forgotten appear to have improved significantly since last fall.*Cody Blanchad a 40-yard catch from*Nathan Peterman*and reeled in a 36-yarder from Worley.*Josh Smith*caught TD passes of 33 yards from Ferguson and 12 yards from Peterman.Johnathan Johnson*made a couple of nice grabs.
The emergence of Pearson, Malone, Croom, Blanc, Smith and Johnson should make opponents think twice before double-covering last season’s freshman sensation, Marquez North. The 6-foot-4, 221-pounder caught 38 passes for a team-high 496 yards last fall, averaging a solid 13.1 yards per reception.
“It always helps having a lot of good people around you,” North said following Saturday’s workout. “Plus, we’re interchanging. There’s a lot of improvement. Everybody’s buying in.”
Croom believes Tennessee’s new-found receiver depth is going to make life miserable for some SEC defensive backs come fall.
“DBs don’t rotate,” he said, “so if you’ve got fresh receivers coming in there each time that’s going to break them down eventually.”
The drops at the end of Saturday’s workout, he believes, were no big deal.
“Today was inconsistent but we’ll improve it,” Croom said. “That’s just something that comes along with being young. We’re still learning how things are supposed to be done around here.”
Given all of the progress being made at the wideout positions, Worley isn’t too concerned about Saturday’s dropped balls, either. He figures they were just lapses in concentration.
“We had three dropped balls out of my four plays, which always hurts,” he noted. “I talked to all three of the guys, (saying) ‘We’ve got to come through. This is live or die, win or lose right here.”
North, best known for a spectacular lunging 39-yard catch he made reaching around a*South Carolina*defender last October, is making more highlight-reel grabs these days.
“He’s made some big plays for us this spring, similar to the catch in the South Carolina game,” Worley said. “He’s made several catches like that. He’s done a better job of going up and getting the ball, attacking it. And he’s broken some big runs after the catch.
“It’s been good seeing his explosiveness come out.”*
On the very next play Worley threw a 12-yard TD strike toVon Pearson*… who was stripped before he could secure ball.
Two plays later Worley threw a three-yard scoring strike toMarquez North*… who dropped it.
Fans who saw only those final two minutes of the scrimmaging probably think the Vols are hurting at wide receiver. Fans who saw the preceding 118 minutes know better. Drops aside, this could be one of the finest wideout corps Tennessee has ever fielded. The talent level is light-years ahead of last fall.
Pearson, the 6-foot-3, 189-pound junior college transfer, is a freak. He isn’t as thick as Vol predecessor*Cordarrelle Patterson(another JUCO transfer) but he’s just as elusive. In an open-field tackling drill he toyed with Vol defensive backs. A spin move left*LaDarrell McNeilon the turf, grasping nothing but air. After a second DB also whiffed, the third won a moral victory: He didn’t tackle Pearson but he at least got a hand on him as he whistled past.
In addition to his antics in the one-on-one tackling drill Pearson got free in the back of the end zone for a 15-yard touchdown pass from Worley and later deftly pushed offJustin Coleman*(without getting caught) for a 20-yard TD catch. Pearson also found time to pop an end-around for a 15-yard gain. He had another one for 50 yards but it was nullified by a holding penalty. Book it: Several SEC defensive backs will be getting whirlpool treatments come fall from wrenching their backs trying to bring down the elusive Mr. Pearson.
The other mid-term newcomer to Tennessee’s receiver corps, 6-foot-3, 202-pound freshman Josh Malone, showed some flashes. He made cornerback*Malik Foreman*whiff during the one-on-one tackling drill and also caught a three-yard touchdown toss from*Riley Ferguson.
Massive*Jason Croom*is learning how to exploit his incredible size (6-feet-4, 234 pounds), although he didn’t make a lot of plays in Saturday’s scrimmage.
Three wideouts most fans probably have forgotten appear to have improved significantly since last fall.*Cody Blanchad a 40-yard catch from*Nathan Peterman*and reeled in a 36-yarder from Worley.*Josh Smith*caught TD passes of 33 yards from Ferguson and 12 yards from Peterman.Johnathan Johnson*made a couple of nice grabs.
The emergence of Pearson, Malone, Croom, Blanc, Smith and Johnson should make opponents think twice before double-covering last season’s freshman sensation, Marquez North. The 6-foot-4, 221-pounder caught 38 passes for a team-high 496 yards last fall, averaging a solid 13.1 yards per reception.
“It always helps having a lot of good people around you,” North said following Saturday’s workout. “Plus, we’re interchanging. There’s a lot of improvement. Everybody’s buying in.”
Croom believes Tennessee’s new-found receiver depth is going to make life miserable for some SEC defensive backs come fall.
“DBs don’t rotate,” he said, “so if you’ve got fresh receivers coming in there each time that’s going to break them down eventually.”
The drops at the end of Saturday’s workout, he believes, were no big deal.
“Today was inconsistent but we’ll improve it,” Croom said. “That’s just something that comes along with being young. We’re still learning how things are supposed to be done around here.”
Given all of the progress being made at the wideout positions, Worley isn’t too concerned about Saturday’s dropped balls, either. He figures they were just lapses in concentration.
“We had three dropped balls out of my four plays, which always hurts,” he noted. “I talked to all three of the guys, (saying) ‘We’ve got to come through. This is live or die, win or lose right here.”
North, best known for a spectacular lunging 39-yard catch he made reaching around a*South Carolina*defender last October, is making more highlight-reel grabs these days.
“He’s made some big plays for us this spring, similar to the catch in the South Carolina game,” Worley said. “He’s made several catches like that. He’s done a better job of going up and getting the ball, attacking it. And he’s broken some big runs after the catch.
“It’s been good seeing his explosiveness come out.”*
Scotty's Flat Top
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Nate Peterman is still clinging, man I was hoping he would've got his walking papers.
Scotty's Flat Top
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#NeverForget
Skeeter said Peterman was the best QB on campus since Manning.
Skeeter said Peterman was the best QB on campus since Manning.
Vercingetorix
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Someone needs to set up an IsAWalkOnStillStartingAtLeftTackle.com website.
BenTenn
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Or a WalkOnLeftTackle alter over there.
wU-Tang Vol
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Notes & updates:— The usual bunch were in yellow no-contact jerseys: Brendan Downs, A.J. Branisel, Drae Bowles, Ryan Jenkins, Trevarris Saulsberry and Brian Randolph.
*
—Devaun Swafford, Max Arnold, Austin Sanders and Jason Croom were in green jerseys.
*
—Jacob Carter did not practice and has an air cast on his right leg.
*
— No newcomer has their black stripe removed.
*
—Former Tennessee coach Phillip Fulmer was at practice
*
From the offense:*—After stretching, Tennessee ran through several plays of live, offense versus defense drills. Here was the first-team offense: Justin Worley, Marlin Lane, Josh Malone, Von Pearson, Marquez North, Ethan Wolf, Jacob Gilliam, Marcus Jackson, Mack Crowder, Kyler Kerbyson and Coleman Thomas.
*
—Here’s who trotted out with the second-team: Riley Ferguson, Jalen Hurd, Alden Hill, Daniel Helm, Jason Croom, Josh Smith, Dontavius Blair, Marques Pair, Ray Raulerson, Dylan Wiesman and Brett Kendrick.
*
—Both squad’s ran several end-around plays, which saw Pearson, Malone, North and Devrin Young take most of the handoffs. The biggest gain, however, came on Johnathon Johnson’s lone touch. He picked up roughly 15 yards.
*
—Freshman tight end Daniel Helm drew praise from Butch Jones after running a crisp route and making a nice catch over the middle of a throw from Riley Ferguson.
*
*
—Mid-term freshman Josh Malone made an acrobatic*adjustment and reaction*to reel in a ball*thrown three feet to his right by Nathan Peterman.
*
—Apparently making his break a split-second late on a quick hitch, sophomore Marquez North*barely got his hands up in time to avoid*getting beaned in the helmet*by*a laser shot from Ferguson.
*
—As media were leaving the practice area Butch Jones chided Josh Dobbs' mechanics*by shouting, "R2Dobbs2! Don't be so robotic."
*
From the defense:*—Here’s a look at the first-team defense: Jordan Williams, Corey Vereen, Danny O’Brien, Owen Williams, Curt Maggitt, A.J. Johnson, LaDarrell McNeil, Lemond Johnson, Justin Coleman, Cameron Sutton and Emmanuel Moseley.
*
—The second team: Jason Carr, Kendal Vickers, Allen Carson, LaTroy Lewis, Colton Jumper, Kenny Bynum, LaRon Toney, Geraldo Orta, D’Andre Payne, Riyahd Jones and Malik Foreman.
*
From special teams:*—Devrin Young fumbled during a “live” kickoff return drill.
*
—Butch Jones invented a new*rule at the start of Tuesday's workout, calling a "poor kick" penalty when Derrick Brodus mis-hit a kickoff so badly that the ball wobbled down the west sideline at Haslam Field and nearly rolled out of bounds. The coach made the senior kicker boot the ball again. This time Brodus nailed one deep and down the middle of the field.
*
—Devaun Swafford, Max Arnold, Austin Sanders and Jason Croom were in green jerseys.
*
—Jacob Carter did not practice and has an air cast on his right leg.
*
— No newcomer has their black stripe removed.
*
—Former Tennessee coach Phillip Fulmer was at practice
*
From the offense:*—After stretching, Tennessee ran through several plays of live, offense versus defense drills. Here was the first-team offense: Justin Worley, Marlin Lane, Josh Malone, Von Pearson, Marquez North, Ethan Wolf, Jacob Gilliam, Marcus Jackson, Mack Crowder, Kyler Kerbyson and Coleman Thomas.
*
—Here’s who trotted out with the second-team: Riley Ferguson, Jalen Hurd, Alden Hill, Daniel Helm, Jason Croom, Josh Smith, Dontavius Blair, Marques Pair, Ray Raulerson, Dylan Wiesman and Brett Kendrick.
*
—Both squad’s ran several end-around plays, which saw Pearson, Malone, North and Devrin Young take most of the handoffs. The biggest gain, however, came on Johnathon Johnson’s lone touch. He picked up roughly 15 yards.
*
—Freshman tight end Daniel Helm drew praise from Butch Jones after running a crisp route and making a nice catch over the middle of a throw from Riley Ferguson.
*
*
—Mid-term freshman Josh Malone made an acrobatic*adjustment and reaction*to reel in a ball*thrown three feet to his right by Nathan Peterman.
*
—Apparently making his break a split-second late on a quick hitch, sophomore Marquez North*barely got his hands up in time to avoid*getting beaned in the helmet*by*a laser shot from Ferguson.
*
—As media were leaving the practice area Butch Jones chided Josh Dobbs' mechanics*by shouting, "R2Dobbs2! Don't be so robotic."
*
From the defense:*—Here’s a look at the first-team defense: Jordan Williams, Corey Vereen, Danny O’Brien, Owen Williams, Curt Maggitt, A.J. Johnson, LaDarrell McNeil, Lemond Johnson, Justin Coleman, Cameron Sutton and Emmanuel Moseley.
*
—The second team: Jason Carr, Kendal Vickers, Allen Carson, LaTroy Lewis, Colton Jumper, Kenny Bynum, LaRon Toney, Geraldo Orta, D’Andre Payne, Riyahd Jones and Malik Foreman.
*
From special teams:*—Devrin Young fumbled during a “live” kickoff return drill.
*
—Butch Jones invented a new*rule at the start of Tuesday's workout, calling a "poor kick" penalty when Derrick Brodus mis-hit a kickoff so badly that the ball wobbled down the west sideline at Haslam Field and nearly rolled out of bounds. The coach made the senior kicker boot the ball again. This time Brodus nailed one deep and down the middle of the field.
wU-Tang Vol
Senior Member
- Joined
- Jul 31, 2013
- Messages
- 3,313
A different Zach Azzanni is roaming Tennessee’s practice field this spring.
“I’m having a lot of fun,” Azzanni said. “That’s not something you can always say.”
Yes, Tennessee’s wide receivers coach still does plenty of yelling, he still must correct hair-pulling mistakes more often than he’d like and there have been no shortages of frustrating film sessions this spring.
The biggest difference form last fall to this spring?
“The attitude,” Azzanni told InsideTennessee.
Oh, and one other thing.
“Also, just to be honest,” Azzanni continued, “we just have more weapons.”
With that pairing in mind, Azzanni likely owes a big ‘thank you’ for his improved practice attitude to JUCO transfer Von Pearson.
After what feels like every spring practice, Azzanni praised Pearson for his work ethic and fun-loving attitude.
“I don’t think Von has ever had a bad day in his life,” Azzanni once said.
Pearson, on campus for just three months now, has already cracked Sportscenter’s Top 10 plays for a one-handed, leaping snag in the corner of the end zone during one-on-one drills.
He has the attitude and certainly qualifies as a “weapon.”
But Pearson is also the recipient of much of Azzanni’s still-remaining yelling.
While Azzanni says the sky is the limit for Pearson’s talent, he also adds that if the term “raw” applied to anyone, it’s Pearson.
“The game is going fast for him,” Azzanni told IT. “At Feather River (Community College) it was, ‘Hey, Von, line up over here and we’ll throw it to you.”
In Azzanni’s eyes, Pearson is the epitome of why Tennessee scrimmages so much during spring camp.
Azzanni said Von Pearson was 'awful' in the first scrimmage, 'less awful' in scrimmage No. 2 and 'a little bit less awful' last Saturday.
With those three scrimmages in the books, Pearson has tallied just two catches for 22 yards.
So, Azzanni spent Thursday afternoon calling the former Scout four-star “22.”
It’s a nickname Pearson isn’t exactly fond of, but Azzanni knows he can handle the harassment.
“He doesn’t get down as fast as some of the younger guys,” Azzanni said. “Kid is all smiles.”
Again, it all comes down to attitude.
And with Pearson’s in mind, Azzanni says he’s confident Pearson will “figure things out.” But Azzanni’s also not shy to say he’s got a lot of figuring out to do.
In attempts to cut down on the mistakes, Azzanni said he’s been making things simple for Pearson.
“I’m not worried about him being a leader right now,” Azzanni said. “I just want him to line up and play as hard as he can right now.”
Until that day when Pearson “figures it out” — should that day ever come — the yelling from Azzanni will continue.
But one thing’s for sure: The yelling won’t last for long.
“He's got so much energy and juice, it's hard to stay angry at him for more than about 10 seconds,” Azzanni said. “He's gonna be fine. He’s fun to coach.”
Kerbyson surprises
KERBYSONWhen Kyler Kerbyson first spoke with the media this spring he talked about a rebuilding offensive line that would prove to be as good as last season’s group. He said he was more determined than ever to develop into “one of the best” to sink into a three-point stance in the orange and white. He talked about being “hungry” to prove doubters wrong.
Talk is cheap, but he’s apparently walking the walk.
Tennessee offensive line coach Don Mahoney called Kerbyson the most pleasant surprise of spring, praising the Knoxville native for his consistency, work ethic and leadership.
“He’s really been a guy that’s emerged big time,” Mahoney said.
Mahoney calls Kerbyson “a surprise” because he remembers a day when he wasn’t sure how big of a contributor he would be.
Mahoney said when this staff first arrived, Kerbyson was overweight, out of shape and didn’t have the “right” mental approach. He says all those things are fixed now.
“He’s doing a really great job,” Mahoney said.
Big Orange Weekend
Tennessee coach Butch Jones revealed several events that will take place as a part of what he dubbed “Big Orange Weekend,” which is focused around Saturday’s Orange & White spring scrimmage.
On Friday, Jones said there will be a lettermen’s golf outing and “VFL reception” at night.
The true festivities begin Saturday, with kickoff slated for 3 p.m.
But besides watching the Vols crack pads at Neyland, Jones said there will be what he called the “VFL Classic” – a flag football game featuring past players. Jones said the MVP from the game will take home a 13-foot, 9-inch trophy.
“Why?” Jones said. “Because we’re Tennessee.”
Jones said at halftime of the scrimmage he’ll announce the winner of a newly unveiled trophy, the Al Wilson leadership award. It will go to the player who displayed the most leadership during the spring and offseason.
“I’m having a lot of fun,” Azzanni said. “That’s not something you can always say.”
Yes, Tennessee’s wide receivers coach still does plenty of yelling, he still must correct hair-pulling mistakes more often than he’d like and there have been no shortages of frustrating film sessions this spring.
The biggest difference form last fall to this spring?
“The attitude,” Azzanni told InsideTennessee.
Oh, and one other thing.
“Also, just to be honest,” Azzanni continued, “we just have more weapons.”
With that pairing in mind, Azzanni likely owes a big ‘thank you’ for his improved practice attitude to JUCO transfer Von Pearson.
After what feels like every spring practice, Azzanni praised Pearson for his work ethic and fun-loving attitude.
“I don’t think Von has ever had a bad day in his life,” Azzanni once said.
Pearson, on campus for just three months now, has already cracked Sportscenter’s Top 10 plays for a one-handed, leaping snag in the corner of the end zone during one-on-one drills.
He has the attitude and certainly qualifies as a “weapon.”
But Pearson is also the recipient of much of Azzanni’s still-remaining yelling.
While Azzanni says the sky is the limit for Pearson’s talent, he also adds that if the term “raw” applied to anyone, it’s Pearson.
“The game is going fast for him,” Azzanni told IT. “At Feather River (Community College) it was, ‘Hey, Von, line up over here and we’ll throw it to you.”
In Azzanni’s eyes, Pearson is the epitome of why Tennessee scrimmages so much during spring camp.
Azzanni said Von Pearson was 'awful' in the first scrimmage, 'less awful' in scrimmage No. 2 and 'a little bit less awful' last Saturday.
With those three scrimmages in the books, Pearson has tallied just two catches for 22 yards.
So, Azzanni spent Thursday afternoon calling the former Scout four-star “22.”
It’s a nickname Pearson isn’t exactly fond of, but Azzanni knows he can handle the harassment.
“He doesn’t get down as fast as some of the younger guys,” Azzanni said. “Kid is all smiles.”
Again, it all comes down to attitude.
And with Pearson’s in mind, Azzanni says he’s confident Pearson will “figure things out.” But Azzanni’s also not shy to say he’s got a lot of figuring out to do.
In attempts to cut down on the mistakes, Azzanni said he’s been making things simple for Pearson.
“I’m not worried about him being a leader right now,” Azzanni said. “I just want him to line up and play as hard as he can right now.”
Until that day when Pearson “figures it out” — should that day ever come — the yelling from Azzanni will continue.
But one thing’s for sure: The yelling won’t last for long.
“He's got so much energy and juice, it's hard to stay angry at him for more than about 10 seconds,” Azzanni said. “He's gonna be fine. He’s fun to coach.”
Kerbyson surprises
KERBYSONWhen Kyler Kerbyson first spoke with the media this spring he talked about a rebuilding offensive line that would prove to be as good as last season’s group. He said he was more determined than ever to develop into “one of the best” to sink into a three-point stance in the orange and white. He talked about being “hungry” to prove doubters wrong.
Talk is cheap, but he’s apparently walking the walk.
Tennessee offensive line coach Don Mahoney called Kerbyson the most pleasant surprise of spring, praising the Knoxville native for his consistency, work ethic and leadership.
“He’s really been a guy that’s emerged big time,” Mahoney said.
Mahoney calls Kerbyson “a surprise” because he remembers a day when he wasn’t sure how big of a contributor he would be.
Mahoney said when this staff first arrived, Kerbyson was overweight, out of shape and didn’t have the “right” mental approach. He says all those things are fixed now.
“He’s doing a really great job,” Mahoney said.
Big Orange Weekend
Tennessee coach Butch Jones revealed several events that will take place as a part of what he dubbed “Big Orange Weekend,” which is focused around Saturday’s Orange & White spring scrimmage.
On Friday, Jones said there will be a lettermen’s golf outing and “VFL reception” at night.
The true festivities begin Saturday, with kickoff slated for 3 p.m.
But besides watching the Vols crack pads at Neyland, Jones said there will be what he called the “VFL Classic” – a flag football game featuring past players. Jones said the MVP from the game will take home a 13-foot, 9-inch trophy.
“Why?” Jones said. “Because we’re Tennessee.”
Jones said at halftime of the scrimmage he’ll announce the winner of a newly unveiled trophy, the Al Wilson leadership award. It will go to the player who displayed the most leadership during the spring and offseason.
Vercingetorix
Senior Member
- Joined
- Apr 16, 2007
- Messages
- 1,655
Weather looks great for Saturday. Might actually be there. I haven't been to an O&W game since Johnny Majors was the coach.
