The Tennessee football program has once again found themselves a playmaker from the outside. The Vols added JUCO CB Ro Torrence on Monday night.
The 6-foot-3, 195 pound defensive back comes to Knoxville from Hutchinson Community College, in Kansas. Torrence is from Bessemer, Alabama, and played at Bessemer City High School.
I spoke with Ro Torrence tonight about his decision to pick the Vols and his conversations with the coaching staff. Also, we discussed him playing for a National Title in a few weeks.
Since the JUCO football was postponed until the spring, Torrence recorded 20 tackles, six PBU’s and 3 tackles for loss in seven games played this season. It should also be noted that one of his former teammates is current Tennessee running back Tiyon Evans. Torrence will be playing in the 2021 JUCO National Championship game on June 5th. He will arrive at Tennessee a bit later than other incoming transfers.
Jarrod Sanders Jr., one of his coaches at Hutchinson, had this to say about his ability.
“He’s an extra long corner and can run very well. He’s very physical at the line in press and sets the edge of the defense, like he’s a linebacker. He’s strong in the weight room and continues to make jumps. In January he was 188 pounds and he’s 200 now, so that speaks for itself. He’s smart and always trying to learn more. Sky’s the limit for that kid, he’s one of the best I’ve seen.”
High praise for the cornerback who was just wrapping up his time in the JUCO ranks. He took care of business and landed at a Power-5 school. Talking with folks about Torrence, they seem to really like his ability to attack from different areas. His height and speed will be a nice treat for defensive backs coach Willie Martinez, who he talked to a lot during this process.
The hope is that Torrence can come in and pickup the defense so that he can contribute early one. Knowing the Vols needed help at the position, especially with depth, only benefits the team even more, thanks to Torrence.
