Running Backs
Daniel: From the perspective of the Vols being able to rest Marlin Lane and Jalen Hurd and get Derrell Scott and Justus Pickett some experience, the game was a success. But in terms of actual productivity, there wasn’t much of anything there. The running backs themselves had just 85 yards and a 3.4 yards-per-carry average. It took some help from the quarterbacks and a couple jet sweeps to Pig Howard to even break the century mark. The Vols retained the unappealing title of the worst rushing attack in the league, now with an average of 109.67 yards per game. Now it looks like Devrin Young could miss some time as well (broken ribs). I won’t fail them all the way since they were shorthanded, but this group didn’t do much to help the Vols win. Grade: D+
Houston: As was the case with the quarterbacks, this group didn’t get much help from the offensive line. Running lanes were narrow and holes closed quickly all game. Derrell Scott showed some of his ability with some quick feet and solid cuts, but both he and Justus Pickett struggled at times in pass protection. I’m going to cut this group a little slack considering that the top two players on the depth chart saw a combined two touches, but it was still a less-than-stellar performance from the running backs. Grade: C
Reed: Derrell Scott made his debut and was indecisive at times. He did make some plays, however, and averaged 4.7 yards per carry despite not having much room to run. Tennessee needs him to contribute down the stretch and getting him reps was huge. Behind Scott, the Vols played numerous reserves at the position and they were less than impressive. Grade: C+
