Offense in desperate need of repair
Jim Chaney has come to Knoxville to repair an offense that finished last in the SEC, and 122nd nationally, in total yardage. His history, which has included stops at Arkansas, Purdue, multiple NFL teams, as well as the most recent stint at Georgia, is well documented.
He now comes to a Tennessee program that, while struggling a year ago, does have pieces to build upon.
At quarterback, Jarrett Guarantano didn’t throw for a very high volume, but he proved efficient a season ago. His 12 touchdowns and only three interceptions indicate that the junior is smart with the football, and has a solid foundation at the position.
His key target will be Marquez Callaway. The wideouts numbers from 2018 don’t pop off the page, with only 592 yards and two touchdowns, but that has more to do with the low passing game output. He was still the leading pass catcher on the team, and as Guarantano improves, so will Callaway’s numbers.
The running back committee will return as well. Ty Chandler and Tim Jordan combined for 1,152 yards and seven touchdowns in 2018. The Volunteers also added Michigan State grad transfer Madre London to the fold.
Of course, all of this hinges on what happens up front. If Trey Smith is healthy, the Vols will have one of the best offensive linemen and an absolute game changer paving the way and protecting the quarterback. If not, it will be another obstacle for this unit.