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Mike Bajakian impressed with Tennessee offense’s progress
By Jason Hall
Published:
The Tennessee offense looks improved through its first two games of the 2014 season. The Vols have recorded 798 yards of total offense, including 520 passing yards and 278 rushing yards.
Former Cincinnati offensive coordinator Mike Bajakian followed Butch Jones to Tennessee after this colleague accepted the head coaching position in December 2012. In year one, the Vols’ personnel struggled to pick up Bajakian’s read option offense early, but looks much better in 2014.
One of the biggest improvements has been the play of senior quarterback Justin Worley. Worley has shown poise and confidence through his first two games, something he lacked throughout his time in Knoxville. Though it’s still early, Worley looks to have a career season for the Vols and flourish as a solid starter.
“I like the way he’s playing football right now,” Bajakian said. “He’s been very decisive and very assertive with the football making quick decisions. His rhythm has been good. He’s taking command. He needs to continue to play his best football as he’s been doing.”
Marquez North was one of the few bright spots for last year’s 5-7 Tennessee team. The sophomore has continued his success this season and has provided Worley with a playmaking No. 1 option.
“I think guys are getting more comfortable. The timing and the rhythm has been good, particularly between Justin [Worley] and Marquez [North]. And all those guys have done a great job going up and making plays.”
Tennessee has also seen an improvement in its running game with the addition of freshman sensation Jalen Hurd. Hurd led Tennessee in rushing last week and was named SEC Freshman of the Week, the first Vol back to be honored since Arian Foster in 2005.
Tennessee’s offense will face a tough matchup against Oklahoma. The Sooners boast a talented team that is strong in the trenches, as well as in pass coverage. Facing Oklahoma, Bajakian hopes to see his players keep up a fast-moving offense to catch the Sooners off guard.
“We’ve even emphasized playing with tempo,” Bajakian said. “We need to make sure we clean up the little things like technique and being assignment sound. Schematically, they create a lot of one-on-one matchups, so we’re focusing on making sure we play with great technique and great tempo.”
A former freelance journalist from Nashville, Jason covers Tennessee, Vanderbilt and Kentucky
