RTI)
More than any other game in his Tennessee football career, Joey Aguilar was pressured in hit in the Vols’ 37-20 loss to Alabama. With a stiff neck, he was forced to enter the injury tent during the game, and backup Jake Merklinger warmed up on the sideline. Ultimately, Aguilar didn’t miss a snap, though, and played the entire game at quarterback.
On Monday, Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel was asked to update the status of Aguilar heading into a road clash at Kentucky. The news was seemingly positive.
“Obviously (there were) a couple hits that Joey took, but he’ll be ready to go this Saturday,” Heupel said.
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In the loss, Aguilar produced 268 passing yards and a touchdown on 28-of-44 completions. His biggest miscue was a pick-six thrown at the goalline as time expired in the first half. With little time remaining and no timeouts, Heupel dialed up a pass play despite going to a jumbo package. Alabama jumped the route to take a commanding lead into the break.
Aguilar’s other miscue was taking a sack in the end zone for a first-half safety. The play gave the Tide a 9-7 lead that it wouldn’t surrender for the rest of the game. He was ultimately sacked four times in the game.
Overall, it was a strong showing for Aguilar, though. His favorite target proved again to be Braylon Staley, who he found 10 times for 92 yards and a touchdown. According to PFF, his receivers dropped five passes in the game.
On the season, Aguilar is responsible for 1,948 passing yards, 15 touchdowns and six interceptions through seven games. He’s run for a total of 97 yards for two touchdowns, as well.
Next, Tennessee heads north to play a struggling Kentucky team. The Wildcats just lost to Texas in overtime, but sit at 2-4 (0-4 SEC) on the season. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:45 p.m. ET and will air on SEC Network.
