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Buzz generating around Tennessee freshman Alontae Taylor after strong start to fall camp
By Jake Rill
Published:
Freshman Alontae Taylor is listed as a wide receiver and cornerback on Tennessee’s roster. However, it’s his defensive skills that have generated a buzz at Vols fall camp.
Taylor intercepted a pair of passes during drills at Tennessee camp on Sunday, and many people, including media members, took to Twitter to share their early impressions of the freshman from Manchester, Tenn.
And all of them were positive.
Here’s a look at what people were saying about Taylor, who could quickly become a key contributor for the Vols if he continues to shine during fall camp:
Easy to see why Jeremy Pruitt is so high on Alontae Taylor. He’s long and can run. Just displayed great body control with a slick INT on a deep pass off Keller Chryst.
— Jesse Simonton (@JesseReSimonton) August 5, 2018
Alontae Taylor picked off both QBs in today’s practice. If you’re looking for a true freshman who can make an immediate impact, he’s probably your guy. Physical, fearless, and obviously great ball skills. He was a WR in high school.
— David Ubben (@davidubben) August 5, 2018
That's two INT's for Alonte Taylor today he looks like one of better DB's makes a lot of plays. But also see potential for missing a play trying to go for it. Honestly pretty okay with that we need to create turnovers.
— Vol Til I Fall (@jfowler1982) August 5, 2018
I'm no football coach, but I was impressed by Bryce Thompson and Alonte Taylor. Their athletic ability is a breathe of fresh air!
— Knoxville Mike (@Mike_Wallace79) August 5, 2018
Alontae Taylor
Soon to be a fan favorite and household name#GoVols #PoweredByTheT
— Brent (@ChristinaTippen) August 5, 2018
https://twitter.com/Eric_Dorris1/status/1026204506743353344
It wouldn’t be too surprising to see Taylor, a former 4-star recruit, starting when Tennessee plays its season opener against West Virginia on Sept. 1.
Here’s a video of one of Taylor’s interceptions from Sunday’s practice, this one coming against quarterback Jarrett Guarantano, courtesy of David Cobb of the Times Free Press:
Don't expect to see Alontae Taylor back at WR anytime soon. The freshman CB balled out during today's open practice. Here's the video proof: an INT vs. Guarantano. pic.twitter.com/tvu3CJt6E7
— David Cobb (@DavidWCobb) August 5, 2018
Jake Rill contributes to news coverage for Saturday Down South. He has covered the SEC since 2016.
