So glad it is finally Monday again, many Tennessee sports developments, much to be said.
George MacIntyre (UT/ Athletics)
As Josh Heupel promised, spring football practice provided no official insight into who will be the starting quarterback in September. The race between Fazion Brandon and George MacIntyre did earn an eloquent description from Vol for life Josh Dobbs, one of our eight favorite former quarterbacks.
“This is competition at its finest … I think the opportunity they have is beautiful … two young players that are extremely talented have the chance to compete against each other, day in and day out.”
Ryan Staub (UT/ Athletics)
Interesting distraction: The only touchdown pass of the Orange and White “game” was thrown by No. 3 QB hopeful Ryan Staub to fifth-year walk-on Carson Whitehead, wide open, 72 yards after a bust in the secondary.
Furman scouts didn’t learn much from that.
Only run of significance was 61 yards by Javin Gordon, transfer from Tulane. He powered through a would-be tackler and outran others to the goal. By design, returning tailback DeSean Bishop was mostly ornamental.
Rumor has it that the Tennessee defense is ahead of expectations, that the Vols have grasped and embraced Jim Knowles’ complicated concepts and strategy.
Staub said Knowles has more coverages than he’s ever seen in a defense. MacIntyre said disguised pressure packages really schooled the quarterbacks.
Credit Heupel. It was so smart of the head coach that he allowed the new defensive coordinator to choose his assistants, coaches who had previously worked with him, who knew what he does.
Smart move 2 was bringing in linebacker Amare Campbell, Knowles’ main man on the field last fall at Penn State. The transfer portal can win games or break hearts.
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Maybe yes, maybe no: Prize edge rusher Chaz Coleman was absent from practices and other team activities over the past couple of weeks, leading to speculation about the future of the Penn State transfer.
Coleman was not present for the O&W. Heupel provided a sketchy update.
“Chaz is dealing with some things off the field, and he’s got to handle that and go through that process.
We’re here to help and support him in all of those ways and will continue to do that. But that’s the beginning part of his journey right now. There are some things that he’s got to work through.”
Coleman, a five-star, was ranked the No. 7 overall player and the No. 2 edge in the portal. That projection was based on potential instead of production.
Rumors are flying … homesick … doesn’t want to work as hard as strength and conditioning coach Derek Owings wants … NIL riches not quite enough … maybe none of the above.
Coleman’s absence is concerning for several reasons, including his pivotal position and potential impact.
The Vols lost six edge rushers from last season.
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Alvin Kamara returns with gift. (UT/ Athletics)
Highlight of last week was Alvin Kamara saying thank you to Tennessee for what it did for him.
Master fund-raiser Danny White or someone within his army of professional solicitors came up with an idea that the rich running back bought with some of his many NFL millions. Key words in describing the gift were “large” and “generous.”
“Alvin has made an extraordinary difference in our program, and we are profoundly grateful,” said Dr. Danny.
Kamara, 2015 transfer from Alabama, said “There are certain experiences that shape you throughout your life. In my heart, it was only right that I pour back into the university that gave me an opportunity when I didn’t quite know what was next.”
What Alvin got for what he gave was a prominent naming opportunity inside Neyland Stadium to recognize his commitment. He said it will be “a representation of perseverance and faith for everyone who enters for years to come.”
Money is sometimes magic. Alvin is the first black football Vol to make such a big donation. It could influence others blessed with success to share.
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Smokey XII looks good as the Vols’ new blue-tick coonhound – trim, athletic, alert. Tom Mattingly may already be considering a second edition of his famous book about Tennessee’s beloved mascots.
“Smokey” is the best (only) dog book I’ve ever read. Mattingly can put words together.
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It appears Rick Barnes will eventually reassemble a roster. He has already plucked two scoring guards and a big shot-blocker from the transfer portal. Remember the name Miles Rubin from Loyola of Chicago.
UT assistant coach Amorow Morgan was the winning edge. He was on the Loyola staff for two seasons.
“I’ve known him for years,” said Rubin. “He recruited me in the past. It’s like family. I feel like I could trust him wherever I go. Somebody I could talk to whenever I need to talk. Yeah, it’s like family.”
Barnes is still digesting what happened to ex-Vol JP Estrella, No. 1 among six departures.
What we had there was a difference of opinion. Tennessee didn’t think Estrella was worth what he was asking. Defending national champion Michigan thought he was. Tennessee knew JP has foot and other physical problems. He missed a lot of playing time. Michigan thinks that was then, not next season.
Tennessee didn’t think Estrella was strong enough around the rim. Michigan thought he was one of – maybe the best – big man available in the transfer portal.
After the last basket in the NCAA Elite Eight, Estrella sounded as if he’d like to stay with the Volunteers, assuming they could agree on financial terms. In just a few minutes, they didn’t. No way will Barnes ever throw JP under the bus so we may never know how wide was the gap.
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Three hoorahs for the Tennessee baseball sweep of Mississippi State in Starkville and a tip of the cap to Karlyn Pickens for her fourth softball no-hitter for the Lady Vols, a 5-0 Saturday victory over Kentucky.
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Just in case you still care, Boo Carter, football reject from Tennessee, has impressed Colorado’s new defensive coordinator Chris Marve with his speed and versatility in the secondary.
“We’ve asked him to do a lot. He loves this game. He loves to be coached, and he does whatever you ask him to do, so we’re excited to have him.”
Hmmmm.
Marvin West welcomes comments or questions from readers. His address is marvinwest75@gmail.com
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