The Vols’ offense was in desperate need of a wake up call when they took on Kentucky this past weekend. Tennessee entered that contest having not scored a touchdown on offense in 14 straight quarters.
Tennessee didn’t score a touchdown in the first quarter against the Wildcats, but they found a way to score not only one, but two touchdowns in the second quarter to end their drought. And according to the Pro Football Focus college football analysts, the Vols’ offense put together a solid overall showing.
According to Pro Football Focus, Three Vols graded out well enough to make their SEC Team of the Week on offense. Quarterback Jarrett Guarantano, running back Ty Chandler, and tight end Ethan Wolf all made the team.
PFF Week 9 – SEC Team of the Week – Offense
J’Mon Moore is the highest graded WR for the second week in a row. pic.twitter.com/gGHHL6SG5w
— PFF College Football (@PFF_College) October 31, 2017
Ty Chandler, a true freshman, actually received the highest grade of any player in the SEC on offense for Week 9. His 90.9 score was the only score in the 90s. Guarantano was the only quarterback listed, which means he earned the highest quarterback grade in the SEC last weekend. Ethan Wolf was also the only tight end listed, which means he was the highest-scoring tight end in the SEC in Week 9.
Guarantano did, at least statistically, put together his best performance of the season on Saturday. He completed 18 of his 23 pass attempts for 242 yards, setting career highs in completions, attempts, and yards in the process.
Chandler had a breakout game in his first major action of his career. Carlin Fils-Aime technically got the start at running back, but Chandler got more snaps and touches. Chandler ran for 120 yards and two touchdowns on 22 carries while also catching two passes for 33 yards as well.
Ethan Wolf tied for the team lead in receptions with three, and he used those catches to pick up first downs a couple times. He finished with 33 yards on those three receptions.
Ultimately, the uptick in offense didn’t result in a win for the Vols, and that’s what truly matters. But at least there were some bright spots from an otherwise dismal day on Saturday.
