Tennessee football: Five Vols to watch for vs. Bowling Green

6’5″ 244 pounds; Hometown: Pahokee, Fla.

Although the running game is what makes Josh Heupel’s offense tick, it can’t be ignored that the quarterback is a huge part of it. Heupel surprised nobody when he named Joe Milton III as his starting quarterback over Harrison Bailey and Hendon Hooker earlier in the week, as Milton is the one guy he targeted this offseason.

Now, however, Milton has to validate him. Last year, Milton started the season for the Michigan Wolverines, played in six games and went 2-3 as a starter. He went just 80-of-141 (56.7 percent) for 1,077 yards (7.6 yards per attempt), four touchdowns and four interceptions.

Those numbers aren’t great. However, he’s got a cannon for an arm, and that combined with his ability to scramble but awareness to not look to run first make him the perfect fit for Heupel’s offense. This is a fresh start for him and Tennessee football, and that needs to be on display Thursday when he takes the field.

There is no redeeming part of the Bowling Green Falcons’ defense. As Heupel runs to set up the pass, the passing game should still easily be there. As a result, the UM transfer should be able to have a field day and break this game open.