Vols Football: Mid-Season Grades for Every Position

Oct 11, 2014; Knoxville, TN, USA; Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Justin Worley (14) passes against the Chattanooga Mocs during the first half at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports

Quarterback: B

Taking out the times redshirt sophomore Nathan Peterman has filled in, the quarterback position for the Vols has been one of the good surprises for the Vols this season.

Senior QB Justin Worley has progressed to the point where he looks nothing like the quarterback who took a backseat to Peterman before the Florida game in 2013. Worley looks much more poised and confident in his 2nd season in Mike Bajakian’s offensive system, and his play on the field has reflected that.

Through 6 games this season, Worley has already surpassed his statistical output in 8 total games last season. Worley has thrown for 1,388 yards, 12 touchdowns, and 5 interceptions. Compare that to 1,239 yards, 10 TD’s, and 8 INT’s in 2013, and it’s apparent Worley has taken a step forward in his last season as a Vol.

While he has still made some poor decisions (most notably in the redzone at times), Worley has been the solid quarterback this offense needs. The one point of concern is his health moving forward, as he has already been sacked 22 times in just 6 games. If he can be kept upright, there’s no telling what kind of numbers Worley can put up.