High Energy at Haslam: Coming off a big win against Georgia, the energy level was high at Tuesday’s practice.
You could feel the confidence throughout the players and it was apparent that the team had gained some swagger back after rallying to beat the Bulldogs in Neyland Stadium on Saturday.
Although it’s not imperative news per say, it was encouraging nonetheless.
Injury Report: Butch Jones met with the media at noon on Tuesday and provided an update on several key injuries for the Vols football team.
The majority of the update was encouraging as Jones reported the three injured offensive linemen, Jashon Robertson, Mack Crowder, and Brett Kendrick, are all expected to be healthy and ready to go before Tennessee travels to Tuscaloosa to face Alabama. Also, Kyle Phillips and Marquez North both participated in today’s practice and Jones is hopeful they will be ready in time for Alabama.
However, not all news was positive as freshman defensive tackle Shy Tuttle has a broken bone in his leg and a torn ligament in his ankle which will cause him to miss the rest of the season.
Rapid Routes: The Vols receivers look pretty crisp and fluid during a fast-paced pass-catching drill.
Receivers took turns running routes with an emphasis on tempo and for the most part looked great – particularly Josh Smith.
Tennessee has a plethora of talent at receiver and finally showcased some of it against the Bulldogs. Hopefully drills like this are an indicator that the coaching staff plans to continue where they left off.
John Kelly Taken to Hospital: UT spokesperson Ryan Robinson reported that freshman running back John Kelly sustained a neck injury during practice and was transported via ambulance to the hospital.
“John Kelly was transported to a local hospital for a precautionary evaluation and was released,” said Robinson.
The situation seems to have been downplayed, and it appears Kelly is fine, however we are still waiting for further update.
DeBord Working with OLine: Many have jokingly said the Vols have two offensive line coaches in Don Mahoney and Mike DeBord, but it appeared to have some truth on Tuesday as DeBord worked extensively with the offensive line, at least during the periods of practice open to reporters.
While DeBord assisted with the offensive line in pad-level and blocking drills, Butch Jones and receivers coach Zach Azzanni worked with the quarterbacks and receivers on various passing drills.
