Receivers/Tight Ends
Daniel: Pretty good effort from this group. The numbers weren’t massive (202 yards), but the receivers made tough and timely catches. It wasn’t necessarily a breakout game for Marquez North, though he seemed more engaged in the offense and made some really impressive catches to help move the chains. Josh Malone and Von Pearson both had nice touchdown grabs. Pig Howard had a solid day with four catches for 49 yards and could’ve had a massive play when he got behind the defense, but Dobbs missed him. Freshman Vic Wharton got some significant snaps and made his first catch in a meaningful situation. Quiet day for Ethan Wolf, Jason Croom and Johnathon Johnson overall. Solid, but not spectacular work overall. A couple inaccurate passes kept it from being a better performance. Grade: B
Houston: This group finally looked like they had some energy in this game. Marquez North made some highlight catches, Josh Malone and Von Pearson found the end zone and the entire group seemed to really respond well when Josh Dobbs entered the game. Dobbs and North are roommates, so that may help explain why he had his best SEC game of the season, but I felt like the entire group really seemed to gain some confidence in what they were doing. All of the receivers appeared more focused, more aware and more prepared for this game than they have in recent weeks. It was also good to see Josh Malone catch his first touchdown in such a meaningful game. That’s the type of play that could really help him build some confidence as the Vols head down the home stretch of the season. The numbers weren’t anything special really, but this group took a step forward against a very good defense. Grade: B
Reed: Despite a couple drops from Ethan Wolf and Daniel Helm and a dropped TD from Marquez North, the Vol receivers took a step forward after struggling the last few weeks. They were more physical and did a much better job of getting open than they have in weeks. North reemerged with four catches for 56 yards and eight Vols caught passes. Josh Malone battled the flu all week but had a huge touchdown catch, Von Pearson added another and Pig Howard was a bright spot yet again. For the most part, they blocked well when runs were called. Tennessee needs more from Jason Croom moving forward but the rest of the WRs played well. Grade: B
Average Grade: B
