Tennessee Football: Practice Notes and Butch Jones 8/25

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Fall camp practice for the Tennessee football team officially wrapped up over the weekend.

That means it is time for preseason practice, and narrowed in focus on upcoming opponents.

Notes and Observations

Marquez North (WR), Jack Jones (G), Justin Martin (DB), and LaTroy Lewis (DL) were back practicing with the team.

Practice started with a two-point conversion from the first team offense through the air, but because of new restrictions the media is not allowed to share who was on the field.

Individual Work

  • The offensive line got in a lot of sled work and reps as a unit.
  • The wide receivers continue to run routes against air showing some impressive athleticism.
  • Josh Malone displayed leadership in several moments helping instruct some of the freshmen with their routes.
  • The QB’s had their accuracy tested by throwing at a three hole net (Dobbs and Dormady both threw well).
  • Malik Foreman got in work at the nickel in place of Rashaan Gaulden.

What We Learned From Butch Jones

It was announced by Coach Jones that two more freshmen had their black stripes removed. The two are roommates, freshman defensive back Micah Abernathy, and freshman offensive lineman Venzell Boulware. When referring to the freshmen class, Jones said that “just about everyone in our class will play.” Both have been very competitive in practice, and will likely be a part of the large number of freshmen getting playing time this year.

When it comes to narrowing down a starting five on the offensive line,  Jones said that “We’re still mixing things up,” and the “different positions their playing has really proved beneficial.”

The majority of the line has been getting experience at multiple spots along the line. This can be very beneficial for depth concerns knowing that these “individuals” will not be thrown into a position they have no experience in. This is the week the staff had hoped to nail down the starting five.

The media has also been chirping about the ability of wide receiver Jauan Jennings. Coach Jones acknowledged that Jennings has elite ability.

“He’s starting to emerge as one of our play makers on offense, but also one of our play makers on special teams as well.”

Expect to see Jennings making big plays for the Vols a number of ways this season.