Fullbacks
Austin Pope continues to receive the majority of his reps at fullback rather than tight end. It was the first game all season in which he was the only player to line up at fullback for the Vols. While in the game, serving as a key blocker either lined up in the backfield or offset behind the tight end, Pope had six positive blocks to 10 negative blocks.
The Knoxville native also had a costly fumble that cost Tennessee a touchdown in the second quarter and has received quite a bit of negative attention because of it. Yes, Pope can’t fumble the ball in that situation, but I’m chalking it up to bad luck. He was trying to cover up the football with two hands and unfortunately punched the ball out as his legs were taken out from underneath him. Regardless, you have to hold on to the football in that situation.
Snaps at fullback:
Austin Pope: 13
