There's no question that the passing game is a major question mark for Tennessee going into the opener against Syracuse. There's a new quarterback, Joey Aguliar, a transfer from Appalachian State, and a group of young receivers. And that's not even taking into account the Boo Carter drama that has been surrounding training camp over the past few weeks, even in light of his return.
But despite the questions, there is a lot of optimism. Aguilar threw for 6,759 yards and 56 touchdowns in two seasons with the Mountaineers. And the young receivers have immense talent. It's such a promising group that ESPN's Billy Tucker couldn't decide on a potential breakout candidate between Mike Matthews and Braylon Staley. So he chose both of them.
🚨 The second-year players we’re predicting will break out in the 2025 college football season
— Billy Tucker (@TheUCReport) August 13, 2025
New for @ESPNCFB we look at which players are ready to make the leap in year two 👇https://t.co/4vbBjpFgeE pic.twitter.com/F3nMH1IiBE
It's no surprise that all eyes will be on Matthews. He's a former blue-chip prospect ranked in the top 50 nationally. He saw the field a lot last season on special teams and in multiple WR sets. Matthews had three catches in a game against Vanderbilt and two catches against Kent State. But more than his receptions, Matthews received attention last year for his physicality and grit as a downfield blocker.
Staley only appeared in a couple of games last season and took a redshirt. He did make a couple of catches in the playoff game against Ohio State, which should be great for his confidence. Tucker particularly mentions Staley's short-area quickness and ball skills as two of his greatest attributes.
Matthews and Staley have both dealt with some injuries and, unfortunately, that has continued into camp. The good news is Matthews is back on the field and participated in a weekend scrimmage. Staley, however, is still working his way back from injury.
Good news: Mike Matthews is back from injury.
— Adam Sparks (@AdamSparks) August 5, 2025
Bad news: Braylon Staley is out with an injury.
Tennessee continues injury carousel at already thin wide receiver group.https://t.co/lZ7fX5MUXW
Right now, the overall health of the wide receiver room is down. Returning starter Chris Brazzell II hasn't been able to be a full participant in practice, and he's also dealing with off-the-field issues. However, there is a lot of potential once this group can get back on the field at the same time. And that includes freshman Travis Smith Jr., who is taking full advantage of the opportunity to get extended reps.
If all this young talent at receiver can get on the field at the same time, expect some fireworks in the air.