Tennessee running backs coach Jerry Mack and defensive coordinator Tim Banks talked with the media Tuesday, four days ahead of the Vols’ week two matchup with Pittsburgh.
Both assistant coaches talked plenty about the Panthers as well as recapping what they saw from their specific units against Bowling Green.
Mack discussed the things that he liked about his one-two inch of Jabari Small and Tiyon Evans in the backfield and why he expects better showings from freshman Jaylen Wright going forward.
The Memphis native discussed why Maryville College transfer Marcus Pierce Jr. was Tennessee’s fourth string running back in the opener and why he was disappointed with his unit’s pass protection.
Tennessee’s defensive performance in the opener impressed Banks, but he made it clear there was room for improvement and greater challenges ahead.
The former Penn State assistant talked his familiarity with Pitt and Panthers’ quarterback Kenny Pickett.
ESPN will televise “The Johnny Majors Classic” Saturday at noon ET. Pittsburgh opened as slight favorites over the Vols.
