Tennessee football: Five Vols to watch for against Pitt
Redshirt junior. player. 839. Scouting Report. Quarterback. Joe Milton III. 3. Pick Analysis
6’5″ 244 pounds; Hometown: Pahokee, Fla.
The way to beat the Pittsburgh Panthers on defense is to cash in on a couple of big passing plays. Obviously, given the way they rush the passer, that can be tricky, but Josh Heupel’s deep-ball plays aren’t as slow-developing as Jim Chaney’s were, so Tennessee football’s offense should have multiple chances to cash in on one.
Given the need for deep-ball success, Cedric Tillman could also be on here as the Vols’ top wideout. However, it all comes down to UT’s starting quarterback. Joe Milton III has a huge arm, but his issues with deep passes were on full display last week.
Milton overthrew Tillman on two surefire deep touchdown passes. His one TD pas was actually a bad throw, but Tillman made a great play on it. UT can’t afford for Milton to misfire like that this week. He’s got to convert on those few opportunities to make this a game.
Another reason Milton is on here, though, is his mobility. Given what we said about Pitt rushing the passer, Milton, who had two rushing touchdowns last week, will likely have lots of chances to scramble. This is where his major strength is, and if he can deliver on it, he could also help neutralize the one thing Pitt does best.