Earlier this month, I hypothesized that Tennessee could possibly redshirt true freshman running back Derrell Scott.
However, it does not look like that is going to be the case.
A rash of injuries to the Volunteers’ backfielld (Jalen Hurd and Marlin Lane are both nicked up), could force Scott into action this weekend. He’s yet to play this season due to a foot injury.
Vols offensive coordinator Mike Bajakian described Scott as “game-ready” on Wednesday after practice.
Also on Wednesday, during Vol calls, Butch Jones said that Scott should get reps on Saturday.
I still wouldn’t consider the North Carolina native a lock to play. The Volunteer assistants said the same thing last week and we’ve still yet to see Scott.
One thing, however, is certain — the Vols absolutely love the former four-star running back’s potential.
Justin Worley described Scott as “shifty” and said “he hits the hole hard, he’s an explosive guy”.
Butch Jones added that Scott is “Very quick. Very elusive. He’s a downhill runner.”
Those are some attributes that Tennessee could desperately use. The Vols’ running game has been, at best, anemic this season.
Fellow true freshman Jalen Hurd has done a good job this season, but he’s struggled to find much room behind a porous offensive line. He’s had to rely on pure strength to pick up positive yards.
Add Marlin Lane’s struggles to the mix and the Volunteers find themselves near the bottom of the SEC in rushing efficiency.
Derrell Scott could be the spark the Vols need to get their ground game going. Of course we have to see him in a game first to know whether or not that will be the case.
Perhaps the Chattanooga game is the Vols’ perfect opportunity to break out their “shifty” running back.