The Tennessee Volunteers cruised to a 2-0 record after a 34-19 win over Arkansas State Sunday. The Vols offense accounted for 415 yards and held a 31:03-28:57 advantage over the Red Wolves in time of possession. Tennessee looked strong offensively and provided an answer for dual-threat quarterback Fredi Knighten on defense. The Vols continue to hold momentum entering one of the most difficult schedules in college football. Here’s five things to take away from Tennessee’s Week 2 win.

  • Justin Worley continues to show improvement: Through two games, Justin Worley is on pace to have a career season. The senior has 520 yards and five touchdowns on 49-of-76 passing. Worley has shown poise and confidence, which he lacked at times in years past. Even behind an inexperienced offensive line, Worley has avoided sacks and held a strong pocket presence while receivers have made plays downfield. Tennessee’s pass attack has taken more chances downfield this season after relying heavily on screen plays in 2013. The personnel is improved and Worley has flourished with a talented group of wide receivers.
  • Jalen Hurd is improving each game: Jalen Hurd looked strong in his second collegiate game. The five-star freshman recorded 83 yards and a touchdown on 23 carries. Hurd also saw a 23-13 advantage over senior Marlin Lane in rushing attempts, with Lane finishing with 54 yards. Hurd will likely be the Vols featured back moving forward and should continue to see a steady growth at the college level.
  • Marquez North and Von Pearson are scary good: Marquez North was a human highlight reel in 2013. After a quiet season debut, the sophomore made a huge impact with 68 yards and two touchdowns on four catches. Von Pearson jumped out to a potential breakout game before suffering an ankle injury in the second quarter. The former JUCO All-American finished with 71 yards on four catches. If Pearson can return to Tennessee’s lineup, they may have one of the scariest one-two punches at wide receiver in the SEC.
  • Defense showed poise, stays with Arkansas State’s tempo: At times, quarterback Fredi Knighten looked like the player many expected Utah State’s Chuckie Keeton to be last week. The elusive play caller made several big plays against the Vol defense, but had little to show for his efforts. Tennessee remained poised on defense and made few mistakes in the big win. The confidence boost from two consecutive showings bodes well for the young defense entering a tough schedule.
  • Aaron Medley’s kicking woes continue: Butch Jones emphasized on his special teams unit’s lack of success in Week 1. Freshman Aaron Medley’s struggles followed him into Week 2 as he missed on a 35-yard field goal in the fourth. Medley did answer on the next drive with a successful 38-yarder, but that’s not going to be enough heading into the bulk of the schedule. Tennessee will need to find a consistent kicker moving forward.