By Lily Helton
It’s no secret that the Volunteers’ offense has been underwhelming in the early half of the season.
The starting quarterback position is in flux, the offensive line has struggled to create a pocket, and the wide receiver room has yet to break out.
But there was a silver lining for Tennessee last week in the win against Arkansas: the offensive production from the tight ends.
Tight end dominance last week
Trent Thomas and DaShaan Brame combined for five receptions, 95 receiving yards, and two touchdowns. Thomas scored his first career touchdown, and Brame set career highs with three receptions and an explosive 68-yard catch-and-run.
“I was excited,” said Brame. “My whole mindset was getting in the endzone.”
With starter Ethan Davis out with an ACL injury, the transfer and sophomore duo have decided to pick up where he left off, with Davis’ constant support and guidance.
“After the game, I came back to my phone, and it was crazy; I got about 15 texts from Ethan [Davis],” said Brame. “He’s been a great support system for all of us.”
Preparation for Alabama
Now, with this newfound momentum going into the Third Saturday of October, the tight end room is focused on pass protection, opening up in the pass game, and continuing to be a threat down the field during practice.
Tight end coach Alec Abeln said his players are ready to master their skill set – if they pay attention to the details.
“We’ve been solid in a lot of aspects; I don’t know that we’ve been dominant,” Abeln said. “Some of it is technique, fundamentals, some of it is mindset.”
UP NEXT: Each year, there is a different twinge in the air leading up to the Tennessee-Alabama game. Both teams are wearing their home jerseys, both too prideful to lose.
The Volunteers take on the Alabama Crimson Tide at 3:30 p.m. ET, and if there was ever a game for Tennessee’s tight ends to show up offensively, it is this Saturday.
“If you can’t get up for this one, you’re probably in the wrong building,” said Abeln.