Saturday Blitz
Fansided

Tennessee Football: 5 reasons why Volunteers will stink in 2017

By Andrew Miller

BRISTOL, TN - SEPTEMBER 10: Running back Travon McMillian #34 of the Virginia Tech Hokies breaks the tackle attempt of defensive back Todd Kelly Jr. #24 of the Tennessee Volunteers in the first half at Bristol Motor Speedway on September 10, 2016 in Bristol, Tennessee. (Photo by Michael Shroyer/Getty Images)
BRISTOL, TN - SEPTEMBER 10: Running back Travon McMillian #34 of the Virginia Tech Hokies breaks the tackle attempt of defensive back Todd Kelly Jr. #24 of the Tennessee Volunteers in the first half at Bristol Motor Speedway on September 10, 2016 in Bristol, Tennessee. (Photo by Michael Shroyer/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
6 of 6
Next
ATHENS, GA – OCTOBER 1: Joshua Dobbs #11 of the Tennessee Volunteers celebrates after the game against the Georgia Bulldogs at Sanford Stadium on October 1, 2016 in Athens, Georgia. (Photo by Scott Cunningham/Getty Images)
ATHENS, GA – OCTOBER 1: Joshua Dobbs #11 of the Tennessee Volunteers celebrates after the game against the Georgia Bulldogs at Sanford Stadium on October 1, 2016 in Athens, Georgia. (Photo by Scott Cunningham/Getty Images) /

1. No Joshua Dobbs

We’ve talked about it already on this list, the fact that Joshua Dobbs was the most valuable player for the Vols for the last two years is a depressing realization for Tennessee fans. The replacement options seem solid but it’s hard to say they’ll be better than Dobbs at any point.

Dobbs could run the read option, threaten defenses with his low-key speed and athleticism, and hit intermediate routes to break open defenses. The combination of Dobbs with Kamara and Hurd was hard for opposing defenses to consistently shut down.

There’s sure to be a long adjustment period for Guarantano or Dormedy to click with Kelly and other running backs. Skilled receivers like sophomore Marquez Callaway and junior Jauan Jennings help make this transition a bit easier. If the receiving corps can be a steadying force for the eventual starting quarterback then not having Dobbs might not be as big of a deal.

Next: 5 big name quarterbacks who will be benched in 2017

Yet, more than anything, Dobbs was smart. He was great leader, very likable player for the team, coaches and fans, and the face of Tennessee football. Losing that type of player is demoralizing for everyone in the locker room.

Home/Tennessee Volunteers