Tennessee football rebuilt its offense last season and refound success on that end of the field under Josh Heupel. However, now the Vols turn the page from Joey Aguilar at quarterback to a new, unproven option.
To help the winner of the quarterback battle between George MacIntyre, Faizon Brandon and Ryan Staub, the surrounding pieces around the signal caller will need to perform well. Here are the three most important surrounding pieces to the success of the offense.
LT – David Sanders Jr.
After putting together a strong finish to his freshman season, David Sanders Jr. is being moved on the offensive line. He played his first collegiate year at right tackle with Lance Heard holding down the other side, but now, Sanders is moving back to his natural position of left tackle.
This also means a lot of pressure will be placed on Sanders to perform at a high level. As a former five-star recruit, expectations are that he will be one of the best tackles in the SEC and play his way into a high draft pick by the end of his career.
Offensive line play is certainly a collective effort among all five pieces, but Sanders’ role protecting the blindside is crucial.
More From RTI: Tennessee Football’s Newest Commit Has Family Tie To a Phillip Fulmer Era Volunteer
TE – Ethan Davis
Through the air, the quarterback will have plenty of options. At wide receiver, both Braylon Staley and Mike Matthews return after impressive second seasons at the college level. There are multiple options for the third starting receiver role, as well.
However, the tight end spot could also play a big role as a security blanket in the pass game and as an extra blocker on the ground. The top player in the room is redshirt-junior Ethan Davis, who is the unquestioned starter in the wake of Miles Kitselman’s departure.
The room isn’t too deep behind him, either. There are some talented options, but he is far and away the most proven piece. Getting the best out of Davis would go a long way in both the pass and run attack.
RB – DeSean Bishop
DeSean Bishop returns as one of the top backs in the SEC. As a redshirt-sophomore last season, Bishop ran for 1,076 yards and 16 touchdowns on 182 carries.
However, Bishop’s pair of running mates are gone. Peyton Lewis has transferred to Virginia, and Star Thomas is out of eligibility and now in the CFL. To replace them, UT is hoping to get improved play from rising sophomores Daune Morris and Justin Baker, and hoping Tulane transfer Javin Baker pans out.
Having unproven pieces behind Bishop means more may be on his plate. He was able to handle it last year, but having him stay successful will be imperative.
