Vols 2015 Stat Projections: Josh Malone

Josh Malone has the potential to be a big play threat for the Vols.

In fact, given Malone’s size and speed combination, he should be Tennessee’s go-to guy when it comes to “splash” plays.

But the Gallatin, TN native had an up-and-down true freshman season in 2014 and the big-play ability didn’t exactly shine through.

Malone proved against Ole Miss that he can be a playmaker in the SEC. He caught five passes for 75 yards against a solid Rebels team.

Unfortunately for Malone, and the Vols, he only caught four passes over the last six games of the season.

Malone, however, says there was a reason for his poor play over the last half of the season — a groin injury that he says he suffered in mid-October last year.

Malone’s had a solid camp and a terrific showing in Tennessee’s open scrimmage on August 15. The groin issue does not appear to be an issue any longer.

If the sophomore wide receiver can stay healthy and find consistency, then he could be in for a big season.

I would caution Vol fans to temper their expectations for Malone in 2015, but I do believe there’s room for marked improvement in his numbers from last season.

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