The first time Josh Malone stepped onto the field at Neyland Stadium in a game environment, he exploded for 181 yards and three touchdowns.
After that stellar performance in the Vols’ Orange and White game, fans were eagerly anticipating what Malone was capable of doing in an actual game.
But Malone, however, is still a true freshman. Rarely does a true freshman, at any position, dominate from day one. Malone, like plenty before him, has had his share of struggles this season.
The Tennessee native started the season with a modest two catches for 26 yards against Utah State. Malone proceeded to catch a pass in each of his first five games of his career, before going without a reception against Chattanooga.
Then Malone seemingly arrived. Against #3 Ole Miss, Malone caught five passes for 75 yards, leading the Volunteers in receiving.
It was easy to assume that Malone had hit his stride, after a performance like he had in the game against Ole Miss. But that wasn’t the case.
Tennessee has played two games since then and Malone has only one catch in those two games (his one catch was his first career touchdown, against Alabama).
Despite the lack of results on the field, Malone is improving. At least according to his coaches.
Vols wide receivers coach Zach Azzanni recently said “Malone is making progress with his maturity. His habits are getting better. It’s been a great growing year this year”.
That comment comes a week after Azzanni made a reference to Malone having to adjust to the high level of competition at the collegiate level, saying “Malone has had to grow up quick. He was dominating in high school. He’s fought through a ton of adversity in the field here”.
The way the Vol staff believes in Malone reminds me of the belief they showed in wide receiver Josh Smith last year, during his freshman season.
Smith struggled with drops throughout his freshman season, yet the coaching staff continued to praise his work ethic, his good hands in practice and his overall ability.
The breakout didn’t come for Smith last season, but he was well on his way to a breakout season in 2014, before an ankle injury prematurely ended his sophomore campaign.
Tennessee’s coaches were right about Smith. I have a feeling they’re just as right about Malone, a former four-star stand out.
Josh Malone is the prototypical Tennessee wide receiver. At 6’3″/204 lbs, he possesses ideal size. He also possesses ideal speed.
The added element to the offense that Joshua Dobbs brings will only help Malone’s development. You can see the field opening up on offense for the Vols.
Last week it was Pig Howard (5 rec., 109 yards) who was the biggest benefactor of the Vols’ “new look” offense.
Against Kentucky, I think it’s Josh Malone that’s primed for a breakout.
Coaches know best and Malone just happens to be the guy that led Zach Azzanni to tell GoVols247 “He can be as good as he wants to be. I’ve said that from Day One”.
When it comes to talent evaluation, listen to the coaches. They might just know a thing or two.