Georgia Bulldogs @ Tennessee Volunteers: What We Learned

Oct 5, 2013; Knoxville, TN, USA; Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Justin Worley (14) passes against the Georgia Bulldogs during the first half at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports

Justin Worley Isn’t As Bad As We Thought He Was

No one in college football this season has been more scrutinized than Justin Worley.

Worley, who started the Vols’ first three games, was benched in favor of the ineffective Nathan Peterman for the Florida game, and then heard the boo-birds in a win over South Alabama.

Basically, the junior quarterback from Rock Hill, SC has been through it this season.

For all the criticism Worley has received, some of it deserved, he actually looked liked a poised SEC quarterback against Georgia on Saturday.

Worley stepped up and made the throws on third down, made the plays on fourth down. He read the defense, adjusted accordingly and most important — he didn’t turn the ball over.

You can’t ask for much more really, especially considering what Worley has to work to with this season.

Yes, there were still some inaccurate throws, but Worley also made some big time throws.

Specifically this pass to Marquez North that was literally placed in the only spot that would’ve resulted in a touchdown.

Worley finished the day 17-of-31 for 215 yards (compared to 19-of-34 for 196 yards for Georgia QB Aaron Murray). He might not be the guy that’s going to lead the Vols to an SEC championship, but he’s not nearly as bad as we all made him out to be.