5 Vols That Need A Big Season In 2015
By Zach Ragan
Oct 19, 2013; Knoxville, TN, USA; Tennessee Volunteers wide receiver Marquez North (8) celebrates with fans after defeating the South Carolina Gamecocks at Neyland Stadium. Tennessee won 23-21. Mandatory Credit: Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports
Marquez North — Wide Receiver
Junior
It might surprise you to see Marquez North’s name on this list. It kind of surprises me to be putting it on here.
But when I thought about the players that would compose this short list, North’s name is the one that consistently came to mind.
There’s no denying the potential/talent that North possesses. He’s big, strong, fast and has incredible hands. He’s shown us what he’s capable of doing, his one-handed catch against South Carolina during his freshman season for example.
But potential and talent only take you so far.
North will be a junior this upcoming season and he’s still yet to completely take over a game, let alone have a breakout season.
I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention that North has battled some nagging injuries during his time at Tennessee.
And that’s played a huge part in why he hasn’t performed at a high level.
In order to be a star, however, in the SEC, the Charlotte native is going to have to find a way to stay healthy.
North caught only 30 passes for 320 yards as a sophomore last season. That’s down from 38 receptions for 496 yards as a freshman (North played in 11 games as a freshman and 10 as a sophomore).
Circumstances haven’t been the best for North during his short tenure on Rocky Top. Inconsistent quarterback play and an inexperienced offensive line have hindered North’s ability to standout.
But great players make those around them better.
If Marquez North wants to leave a lasting legacy at Tennessee, he’ll need to have a big season in 2015.