Running Back
Reggie Cobb
He may not have the most yards in Vol history, but Reggie Cobb was a dymanic runner for the Vols in the late 80s. And if not for injuries, Cobb’s career could’ve been even more memorable. Cobb and Chuck Webb were a powerhouse duo for the Vols in the late 80s, but unfortunately both had injury issues and didn’t get the recognition they deserved. But when it came to pure talent, Cobb was rarely matched. He finished with 2,360 rushing yards with a 5.3 yard per carry average and 26 touchdowns. He’s still in the top 10 in career rushing yards and rushing touchdowns in school history despite not playing for Tennessee in almost 30 years.
Jamal Lewis
Once again, if not for injuries, this Vol would’ve been remembered even more fondly than he already is. Jamal Lewis had his 1998 season cut short thanks to a season-ending injury in the fifth game of the season. If not for that, Lewis may very well be Tennessee’s all-time leading rusher. Even with that injury, Lewis is still the Vols’ fifth-leading rusher in school history with 2,677 yards. He also finished with 17 touchdowns and a 5.5 yard per carry average. Lewis was part of a deep running back pool in the late 90s, but Lewis was arguably the most talented and definitely had the most successful professional career.
Johnnie Jones
Back in his day, Johnnie Jones was a record-breaker. Jones was the first Vol to ever run for 1,000 yards in a season, and he held the record for most rushing yards in a season with 1,290 in the 1984 season until Jay Graham ran for 1,438 yards in 1995. Jones has the unique designation of being the only Vol to have two 1,000-yard rushing seasons in a career, and he still places fourth all-time in program history with 2,852 rushing yards.
One Response
I would have included Bob Suffridge at OL, Dewey Warren at QB, Jack Reynolds/Jackie Walker at LB and Curt Watson at RB but that’s just me.