Tennessee football 2019 preview by position: Vols running backs
Biggest questions
1. What will be Ty Chandler’s usage rate per game?
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Given his versatility, it’s safe to say that Tennessee football grossly underused Ty Chandler last year. Again, he is the Vols’ best offensive playmaker. The best evidence of that was their final game against the Vanderbilt Commodores. Chandler had a 75-yard touchdown run to open the half. Then he only got two more touches the rest of the game.
Jim Chaney is more dedicated than Tyson Helton is to adapting to his personnel and giving his playmakers the ball. So Chandler should see much more action this year, but how much remains a question. The answer to that could determine the entire scope of the Vols’ offense.
2. How often will running backs be used in the passing game?
Building off the last question, Ty Chandler became the first running back in UT history to have a receiving touchdown in three straight games. Again, Chaney likes getting the ball to his playmakers however he can.
If the offensive line remains an issue, that will mean incorporating playmakers like Chandler and even Tim Jordan into the passing game to get them the bal. Doing that could help Jarrett Guarantano a lot, so it’s going to be key for the Vols as their line develops.
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3. Can Jeremy Banks emerge as a reliable power back?
Again, we have him at No. 3 on the depth chart. But as the only power back on the roster, Jeremy Banks should be seeing a similar amount of carries to Tim Jordan given the fact that he brings something completely different to the table from Ty Chandler.
The reason for moving him to linebacker last year was his inability to hold onto the ball. If he can take that next step to better ball security as a sophomore, his size and an improved offensive line could make Tennessee football significantly better in short-yardage situations.