The Tennessee Vols hit the practice field Sunday afternoon, opening up the Gator Bowl week on the campus of North Florida.
Right off the top, the one thing that stood out was Brandon Kennedy taking first team reps with QB Jarrett Guarantano. Kennedy, who’s been gradually coming back since he had his knee scoped a few weeks ago, looked to be moving at a good pace. We will see if this continues during the week.
Jerome Carvin was getting 2nd team reps at center during the rapid periods. The offense was working on slants & quick throws out of the backfield.
Jarrett Guarantano wasn’t wearing any kind of hand brace today, as he looked sharped with his throws. Brian Maurer was sporting a knee brace during practice, but didn’t seem to have any type of problems moving around.
Jauan Jennings was all smiles with the group on Sunday. Jennings, who has to sit out the first half of the bowl game, continued to bring the energy, especially as the team was stretching and getting loose.
There were no absences during practice for the Vols, which is a welcomed sign for a group that was starting to get banged up towards the end of the season.
The WR’s continued working on ball security for a few minutes to open practice. Tee Martin was very vocal when talking to his players about securing the football. Knowing they will need a few players to step up in the 1st half on Thursday, he was intent when talking to Tillman, Keyton & Byrd.
The RB group worked on screens & check downs during the open portion. Ty Chandler, Eric Gray & Tim Jordan will need a big game on Thursday, it will be interesting to see which RB is the most productive against the Indiana defense.
It’s just the first day for the Vols in Jacksonville, so I am interested to see if any kind changes happen along the OL, especially at the center position. The WR group has a few more days to sort out who will be getting a good chunk of playing time, in place of Jauan Jennings.
We will continue to bring you coverage from Jacksonville, as the players will meet with the media later on in the day.
