Receivers/Tight Ends
Daniel: Von Pearson had maybe his best day as a Vol, setting a new career high with seven catches for 75 yards that included a nice touchdown grab that gave the Vols a commanding 35-7 edge. Pig Howard had a nice all-around day with two catches and two rushes for a total of 53 total yards. He looked as fresh and energized as he had all season as well. Wharton also did his part on the trick play by faking a block well and then slipping away to get open for the score. The tight ends were quiet in the passing game, but made some nice block. It was another frustrating day for Josh Malone, who had no catches and one drop. And if we’re nitpicking, Pearson probably should’ve made the catch on Dobbs’ lone interception. But especially considering how banged up this unit was, it got the job done and helped UT get the impressive win. Grade: B+
Houston: This was a very solid performance by this group. Von Pearson finally looked to be 100-percent healthy and made the most of it by hauling in seven catches for 75 yards and a touchdown. Vic Wharton broke loose for a 49-yard score on a trick play andPig Howard set up the Vols’ first touchdown on a nifty sweep on their opening drive. Tennessee could have gotten more from this group had they needed it, but when the rushing attack is working as well as it did on Friday…why risk it? A few drops will lower the grade, but this was a strong outing. Grade B
Reed: What this group was able to do against a defense that came into the contest ranked 8th nationally in passing yards allowed per game was very impressive. Von Pearson came up big with a career day including a beautiful TD grab to put the game out of reach. Vic Wharton had a breakthrough 49-yard touchdown and Pig Howard, who quietly put together a nice year (54 catches for 618 yards), had 53 yards of offense and set up UT’s first touchdown with a dynamic sweep. Given the injuries to this group, it was a productive and solid day. The Vols simply got what they needed out of their receivers. Grade: B+
Average Grade: B+
