Willie Martinez speaks to Tennessee’s freshmen DBs: ‘All 3 of them are making something happen’
By Ethan Stone
Published:
Tennessee’s freshman trio of defensive backs – Cristian Conyer, Rickey Gibson and Jordan Matthews – have reportedly all looked the part for the Vols at practice.
Vols secondary coach Willie Martinez needs a step up in production at the corner and safety positions, a weaker spot for Tennessee last season. Tennessee has plenty of options heading into the season, but an abundance of options does not always translate to on-field success.
That’s why the freshman trio’s comfort within on the defense is a big deal for Martinez heading into the new season.
“I think they’re obviously a lot more comfortable than they were in the spring,” said secondary coach Willie Martinez, via 247Sports. “About the 4th or 5th time that we’ve had installs, you’re seeing less and less alignment issues. You see a lot more execution on a consistent basis. And again, they’re competing at a different level because they know it more, and it’s good to see. You’ve got some of the guys making plays. Consistently all three of them are making something happen during a practice.”
The starting 5 in the secondary is very unlikely to be won by a freshman. Tamarion McDonald, Wesley Walker, Gabe Jeudy-Lally, Kamal Hadden and Doneiko Slaughter are likely to get the majority of reps, with Warren Burrell and Christian Charles sure to play major roles as well.
However, the depth created by Martinez’ encouraging report is nice to hear for a Vols squad desperately needing a step-up in production.
The Vols kick off the 2023 season in Nashville against Virginia. The game is set to kick off at Noon on ABC.
Ethan Stone is a Tennessee graduate and loves all things college football and college basketball. Firm believer in fouling while up 3.
