Tennessee football vs. Chattanooga: Five Mocs to watch for against Vols

1. Bryce Nunnelly

Wide Receiver; Junior

6’2″ 190 lbs

The most recognizable player on the Chattanooga Mocs, even beyond Nick Tiano, Bryce Nunnelly was this team’s star going into the season. And through two games, he has not disappointed the public at all.

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For the year, Nunnelly currently has 14 receptions for 187 yards and a touchdown along with one kickoff return for 26 yards. He is continuing to prove just how elite he is, and Tennessee football will struggle handling him Saturday. In fact, he may be the reason Jeremy Pruitt desperately brought back Bryce Thompson probably earlier than he should have.

In fact, Rusty Wright and his coaching staff have not gone to this guy enough through two games, which could be why they’re 1-1. After all, he only had eight receptions for 87 yards in their loss to Jacksonville State. Nunnelly should be getting as many touches as possible.

Last year, Wright had 79 receptions for 1,237 yards and seven touchdowns. He needs to be getting every target from Tiano. On Saturday, the Vols will be trying to shore up their secondary after it gave up key big plays last week despite playing well overall. The unit has been highly inconsistent so far this season, and Nunnelly could exploit that.

Tennessee football should still be able to torch the Chattanooga Mocs. But guys like Tiano and Nunnelly could make this a game, and with Ailym Ford now brining balance, Pruitt has to prepare for this offense Wright has put together in his first season.