The Tennessee Volunteers looked strong offensively in a 38-7 win over Utah State Sunday. The Vols scored early on their second and third possessions and continued to hold momentum throughout the contest.

Tennessee had 383 total yards: 273 passing and 110 rushing. Justin Worley accounted for the pass attack, adding three touchdowns on 27-of-38 passing. Worley averaged 7.2 yards per attempt in what was the most impressive showing of his four-year career.

Senior Marlin Lane and freshman Jalen Hurd split carries evenly out of the Tennessee backfield. Lane totaled 41 yards, 3.7 yards per carry and a touchdown on 11 attempts, while Hurd rushed for 29 yards and a 2.6 average for his 11 touches. Pig Howard was the first player to score for Tennessee on an eight-yard run.  As a team, Tennessee averaged 2.8 yards on 39 attempts for the game.

The Vol receivers combined for 273 yards and three touchdowns on 28 receptions. Howard led in catches with six receptions, while Josh Smith totaled a team-best 48 yards. Jason Croom added two catches for 41 yards and a game-high 20.5 yards per catch average.

It seemed as though Butch Jones and staff wanted to spread the ball around in week one. The only true breakout performer was Worley, who completed passes to 11 different receivers. This game really should be analyzed more for points than statistics. Tennessee saw strong performances from its skill players when called upon and gave every player touches.

The biggest question entering the game was how the inexperienced offensive line would fare. Early penalties were the biggest concern, but after being flagged five times, the line had a single 3rd quarter false start call before a penalty-less 4th quarter. The Vol line gave Worley plenty of time in the pocket, but may need to improve on opening holes for the rushing attack.

Individually, Tennessee’s offense may not have put up the most impressive statistics. As a team, however, the Vols definitely left a lasting impression entering week two offense.