With Tennessee facing its bye week, here are some superlatives for the Vols’ standout performers through three games.

Most likely to succeed: Jalen Hurd, RB: Jalen Hurd seen an immediate impact for Tennessee. Enrolling last January, the five-star prospect got a leg up on the playbook and speed of the college game. Each game has seen Hurd rush for a new season-high, including 97 yards and a 6.93 average on 14 carries against Oklahoma last week. Hurd faced huge expectations following a decorated prep career and has lived up to the hype thus far. Through three games, the Hendersonville native has given Tennessee fans a glimpse of a bright future.

Most Improved: Josh Smith, WR: Between injuries and dropped passes, Josh Smith had a miserable freshman season in 2013. The Knoxville native made it a personal goal to improve and he’s been successful thus far. Prior to a high ankle sprain injury, Smith saw efficient numbers and provided Tennessee with its only touchdown in a 34-10 loss to Oklahoma. If he can return at 100 percent, Smith will likely continue his progression and enjoy a solid sophomore season.

Best Leader: Justin Worley, QB: In Week 1, head coach Butch Jones told SEC Nation’s Joe Tessitore that Justin Worley looked like a senior quarterback on and off the field. His actions and play thus far have proven the coach correct. Worley is off to the best start of his collegiate career and has shown poise, confidence and many other endearing qualities looked for in a veteran quarterback. Following last week’s blowout that included five sacks and eight QB hurries by a talented Oklahoma pass rush, Worley tweeted of his confidence in his offensive line and continued to show his support through the bye week. The former Gatorade National High School Player of the Year has shown the maturity and camaraderie needed to excel as a team leader, something the last few Tennessee quarterbacks severely lacked.

Most exciting player to watch: Marquez North, WR: Marquez North reprieved his role as Tennessee’s human highlight film in his second season. North leads the Vols in receiving yards (173), receiving touchdowns (2) and catches (14). In Week 2, North made several highlight worthy catches against Arkansas State, including two athletic touchdown grabs.

Best Player: A.J. Johnson, LB: A.J. Johnson leads the SEC with 29 total tackles. “The Beast” is looking to cap off a decorated individual career with a winning record in his senior season. Deciding to forego the NFL Draft, Johnson returned to Tennessee after three consecutive losing seasons. In 2014, he may off to the best start of his career, which is extremely impressive considering he’s posted back-to-back 100-tackle seasons and 80 as a true freshman.