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Tennessee football: 10 safest starting spots on 2020 roster

By Caleb Calhoun

JACKSONVILLE, FL - JANUARY 02: Henry To'o To'o #11 of the Tennessee Volunteers celebrates during the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl against the Indiana Hoosiers at TIAA Bank Field on January 2, 2020 in Jacksonville, Florida. Tennessee defeated Indiana 23-22. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
JACKSONVILLE, FL - JANUARY 02: Henry To'o To'o #11 of the Tennessee Volunteers celebrates during the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl against the Indiana Hoosiers at TIAA Bank Field on January 2, 2020 in Jacksonville, Florida. Tennessee defeated Indiana 23-22. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /
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Photo by Donald Page/Getty Images
Photo by Donald Page/Getty Images /

Scouting Report. Jackson, Tenn.. Trey Smith. 5. player. 839. Pick Analysis. Senior

Left guard

When it comes to offense, Tennessee football has to replace every starter at receiver, and the emergence of Eric Gray makes for a competition for the main running back between him and Ty Chandler. However, the offensive line is proving itself to be loaded with guys certain to start, and Trey Smith is clearly the most obvious one on here.

The preseason All-American, two-time first-team All-SEC guard and first-round NFL Draft prospect who won over tons of fans by deciding to return for his senior season, is easily going to resume his position at left guard. He thrived when moving back there last year, and he’s started every game he’s ever played for Rocky Top. This year wouldn’t be any different.

Even if Cade Mays does end up receiving his eligibility, he’ll have some competition with guys like Riley Locklear to start. Smith, who is now 6’6″ 330 pounds and a product of University School of Jackson, will have no competition. There’s no question that he will be the starter in the opener provided he’s healthy, and he’s likely to be the team’s biggest star.

Why, then, is he not higher on this list? Well, we still can’t ignore the blood clots in his lungs. That kept him out of two full offseasons and cut short his sophomore season in 2018. Even if he’s worked out a way to play, they could be an issue, especially with the current pandemic.

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