Tennessee has questions that need to be answered throughout its roster, but that doesn't mean the Vols already have some answers in the preseason.
The Vols' running back room could be a highlight of the offense again this year, although Tennessee fans can expect to see a lot of new faces running the ball.
Tennessee running backs coach De'Rail Sims has been praising the top three running backs on the roster. Duke transfer Star Thomas, redshirt sophomore DeSean Bishop, and true sophomore Peyton Lewis all have the skills to be the Vols' leading rusher this year.
This means we could see the Vols utilize a committee approach to the running back position again this year. But unlike years past, it could be because they have two or three dominant players lined up in the backfield looking for their breakout opportunity.
A few weeks ago, I reviewed Tennessee's roster and identified four players who could be playmakers for the Vols this season, but may also transfer out after the end of the year.
Two of those players were DeSean Bishop and Peyton Lewis. Unless Josh Heupel and the Vols' offensive coaching staff can perfectly balance snaps for those two guys and Star Thomas, one of the Vols' running backs could choose to transfer out at the end of the year.
"I think you got to look at the first two, the returning guys from last year," Sims said about Tennessee's running back room. "You got [DeSean Bishop], you got Peyton [Lewis], and then you got to look at the rest of the room. It's no really set numbers and rotation yet.
"I think it's still working itself out as it get towards game week, the competition factor in that. I think you start with the two older guys, and then you look at Star [Thomas] and other guys, played a ton of football, that's working his way, and has had a really good camp."
Tennessee's running back room could be loaded this year with three potential backs that can carry the Vols' offense.
While there are still some questions at quarterback and wide receiver, the Vols' running back trio is ready to provide some answers.