Vols inch closer to spring game, riding the blooming progression of offensive skill groups

As the Tennessee Volunteers inch closer to their highly anticipated spring game, excitement is building in Knoxville for what could be a breakout year for the team. After a strong showing in the 2023 season, the Vols are set to turn the page and look toward the future with a number of promising offensive skill players on the roster. With key players returning and new recruits stepping into important roles, Tennessee’s offense is expected to be one of the most dynamic in the SEC this season.

The spring game will be the first opportunity for fans to get a close look at how Tennessee’s offensive skill groups are progressing. The Vols’ offense, under head coach Josh Heupel, has always been one of the most fast-paced and high-powered units in the country, and with the talent that has been amassed over the last few years, the potential for even greater success is immense. But there are still several pieces of the puzzle that need to come together if Tennessee is going to build on its success and remain a contender in the SEC.

Quarterback Battle: Can Joe Milton Seize the Moment?

One of the biggest storylines heading into Tennessee’s spring game is the battle for the starting quarterback position. After Hendon Hooker’s departure, the Vols find themselves in need of a new signal-caller. Joe Milton, who played in several games last season, has the experience but has yet to prove himself as the consistent leader Tennessee needs at the position.

Milton, who has a cannon for an arm and incredible athleticism, came to Tennessee with high expectations, and there is hope that he can take the reins of the offense this season. However, he’ll face competition from a talented group of quarterbacks, including highly regarded freshman Nico Iamaleava. While it’s unlikely that Iamaleava will win the starting job right away, his development will be something to watch closely as the spring progresses.

The spring game will give fans a chance to see how Milton handles the pressure of being the starter. Can he improve his decision-making and become the leader Tennessee needs, or will the Vols have to look for a different option at quarterback? This will be a key question heading into the summer months, as the starting quarterback plays such a crucial role in the success of Heupel’s high-tempo offense.

Running Backs: A Deep and Talented Group

Tennessee’s running back room is one of the most loaded in the SEC, and it will play a significant role in the Vols’ offensive success this season. Jabari Small returns as the lead back, bringing with him solid experience and the ability to break tackles and churn out tough yards. He’ll be joined by Dylan Sampson, who showed flashes of brilliance last season, and freshman Cameron Seldon, who has impressed in practices and could quickly carve out a role in the rotation.

The running back committee will be crucial for Tennessee’s offensive balance, especially as the quarterback position remains in flux. If the Vols can establish a strong ground game, it will take pressure off Milton and help open up passing lanes for the receivers. Sampson’s ability to make big plays and Seldon’s potential for explosive runs are both exciting prospects, and all eyes will be on the backfield during the spring game.

Wide Receivers: The Heart of Tennessee’s High-Powered Offense

Tennessee’s wide receiver corps is arguably the strongest and most dynamic group on the roster. The Vols have an embarrassment of riches at the position, with a deep and talented group of playmakers who can stretch the field and make big plays in Heupel’s offense.

The star of the group is undoubtedly Bru McCoy, a former USC transfer who has emerged as one of the top wideouts in the country. McCoy is an athletic freak who can take over games with his size, speed, and ball skills. He’ll be joined by a talented group of returners, including Ramel Keyton and Squirrel White, both of whom have shown the ability to be playmakers in Heupel’s system.

However, it’s the young players who could make the biggest difference this season. Freshman Ethan Davis, one of the top recruits in the country, is expected to see significant playing time and could make an immediate impact. Davis, known for his speed and route-running ability, adds another dimension to Tennessee’s already potent receiving corps. With so many weapons at his disposal, whoever wins the starting quarterback job will have plenty of targets to throw to, making Tennessee’s offense one of the most dangerous in the country.

Tight Ends: A Versatile Weapon in the Offense

While Tennessee is primarily known for its explosive passing attack and up-tempo offense, the tight end position could be more important than ever this season. The Vols have a number of talented tight ends on the roster, including Jacob Warren and Princeton Fant, both of whom have the ability to block in the running game and make plays as pass catchers.

Warren, in particular, has been a steady presence in the offense for the past few years and has the potential to have a breakout season as a receiving threat. Fant, on the other hand, is a more versatile player who can line up in a variety of positions and create mismatches for opposing defenses. With the skill set that both players bring to the table, Tennessee’s tight ends will be key in helping balance the offense and provide additional targets for the quarterback.

The spring game will be a good opportunity to see how the tight ends are integrated into the offense and whether they can take on a more prominent role this season. Heupel has a history of utilizing tight ends effectively in his system, and with the talent on hand, it’s likely that the position will play a larger role in 2025.

Offensive Line: A Vital Factor in Offensive Success

While much of the attention has been focused on the skill players, the offensive line will play a crucial role in Tennessee’s success this season. The Vols will need to improve their protection for the quarterback and create running lanes for the talented backfield. The offensive line has been a work in progress under Heupel, and while there is talent in the trenches, consistency has been an issue at times.

Tennessee will need strong performances from veterans like Cooper Mays and Jerome Carvin, who will anchor the line. Additionally, the development of younger players like Max Garrison and Kaden McDonald will be critical in establishing depth and ensuring the line can hold up throughout the season. The spring game will be an important test for the offensive line, as it will show whether the unit can step up and protect the quarterback while also creating a strong push in the running game.

 The Vols Are Poised for Offensive Explosion

As Tennessee prepares for its spring game, all eyes are on the development of its offensive skill groups. With a dynamic quarterback competition, a loaded running back room, and a wide receiver corps that can stretch the field, the Vols have the potential to be one of the most potent offenses in the SEC.

While there are still questions to be answered, particularly at quarterback and on the offensive line, the foundation is in place for Tennessee to continue its offensive dominance under Josh Heupel. The spring game will provide a glimpse into how far along these units are in their development, and if all the pieces come together, the Vols could be a true contender in the SEC this season.

Fans in Knoxville have reason to be excited, as the Vols are riding the momentum of their blossoming offensive skill groups into what promises to be an exciting spring game—and a thrilling 2025 season.