It has been over a decade since the Vols were part of the National Title discussion. This year will not mark their return to prominence, however, it could be another step in the right direction.
JR QB Tyler Bray with his cannon of an arm will be behind center this year, and he could emerge as one of the top selection in the 2014 NFL draft if he continues to develop. He has two of the most spectacular targets in the nation to throw to in JRs DaRick Rodgers and Justin Hunter. Behind the USC tandem, this is the best WR combo in the whole country. The o-line is very experienced, and although none of the players stand out as superb, they are all better than serviceable, and the unit should do very well. My only question mark is from the running game.
Defensively, this team is young, and hungry. The most talent resides in the linebacking unit behind SR Herman Lathers. He has the experience, but the guys to watch are SO OLBs Curt Meggitt and AJ Johnson. I think each of these guys, who started last year as true freshmen, are on the brink of becoming the best OLB tandem in the nation. One more year of game play under their belts, and the NFl will come calling for both. The defensive front is going to be improved over last year's group, mainly in part to the addition of JUCO transfer DE Darrington Sentimore. The former Alabama commit will bring a pass rush presence and that will help a young secondary.
The Vols, are not there yet, but they are on their way back. If all of the talented underclassmen continue to develop and return to school next year, 2014 could be the year that Tennessee fans have been waiting for.
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