Tennessee football: 4 players whose return to health could rejuvenate Vols
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Brandon Kennedy is above Trey Smith because we know he is returning and Tennessee football has fewer options at center. Last year, Kennedy suffered a season-ending injury in the opening game of the season, further setting back Jeremy Pruitt and the Vols since he played center.
This year, though, Kennedy’s return to health should really add to the flexibility that Pruitt, Jim Chaney and Will Friend would have. They now have multiple options at center and can shuffle their interior line, two areas they were lacking in last year.
Add in the arrivals of five new offensive linemen, and Kennedy makes for a unit that could be a lot deeper and more stable. Tennessee football got a splash pickup when he transferred from the Alabama Crimson Tide last year, and his season-opening injury was highly unfortunate.
Had Kennedy played all year, the Vols would have not had their collapse against the Florida Gators, they would’ve beaten the South Carolina Gamecocks, and they could have established a more consistent rushing attack. His return, despite a rocky start in his only game, should be a huge boost.
Next. Ranking position groups for Vols 2019 recruiting class. dark
Remember, Kennedy was once a four-star recruit before going to Alabama. It’s clear that he has talent. He just needs a chance to showcase it. Finally, this could be the year in which that happens. And with him back anchoring the middle, you could see a dramatic improvement up front regardless of what happens everywhere else. That’s why his return is huge for Tennessee football.