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Rapid Reaction: Worley, Vols enjoy another dominant win over Arkansas State
By Jason Hall
Published:
Here’s a few thoughts on Tennessee’s 34-19 win over Arkansas State:
What it means: Tennessee’s passing attack looked strong against a solid Arkansas State pass defense. Facing two preseason Thorpe Award watch list nominees, Justin Worley enjoyed another impressive showing with 247 yards and two touchdowns on 22-of-38 passing. The senior successfully connected with 11 different receivers for the second consecutive week and guided the Volunteer offense to another big win. Jalen Hurd looked improved in his second career game after rushing for 83 yards and a touchdown on 23 carries. Marquez North saw more targets and provided a highlight reel of catches with 68 yards and two touchdowns on four receptions. Von Pearson also impressed with a team-best 71 yards on four catches, before leaving the game in the second quarter with an ankle injury. Defensively, the Vols were successful at containing dual-threat quarterback Fredi Knighten. Knighten had some big plays, but didn’t do nearly enough to pose a threat to Tennessee’s comfortable lead.
What I liked: Tennessee’s defense was unfazed by Knighten’s big plays. The young unit remained composed and had yet another impressive effort against an elusive quarterback. Offensively, the running game seemed to improve as the game continued. After a slow start, Tennessee’s backs combined for 168 yards and two touchdowns on 45 carries. The receiving corps provided plenty of options for Worley in the pass attack and North saw an increase in targets. Also, the offensive line continues to gain experience each game and is improving their overall chemistry.
What I didn’t like: I’m not sold on Aaron Medley as the starting kicker. Special teams coach Mark Elder said the competition is still open between Medley and George Bullock. I don’t know what to expect from Bullock, but it can’t possibly be much worse than what we’ve seen from Medley thus far. Week 2 marked the second consecutive game where Medley missed an easy field goal attempt. Moving forward, the Vols will need a dependable kicker to win close games. Also, seeing Von Pearson go down with an injury after a fast start was hard to watch. Pearson will be a major loss for the Vols who look to have one of the best 1-2 combinations in the conference if healthy.
Key Play: Justin Worley connected with Marquez North on a 10-yard touchdown reception to put Tennessee ahead 17-6. The Vols continued to add to their lead and held momentum throughout the remainder of the game.
What’s next: Tennessee will travel to Norman to face No. 4 Oklahoma. The Sooners are 2-0 after defeating Tulsa 52-7 on Saturday.
A former freelance journalist from Nashville, Jason covers Tennessee, Vanderbilt and Kentucky
