Vols : Why You Can’t Run on Tennessee in 2015

Oct 11, 2014; Knoxville, TN, USA; Chattanooga Mocs running back Derrick Craine (41) is tackled by Tennessee Volunteers defensive lineman Dimarya Mixon (40) during the first half at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports

Dimarya Mixon

The next two guys have come on as strong as anyone on the team from the last half of last season til this very day. Dimarya Mixon was a lucky surprise. He had originally signed with Nebraska for the upcoming 2013 season. Due to clearing house issues Mixon sat out that season, and signed with the Vols instead of the Cornhuskers. It was Tennessee’s gain.

Mixon is an interesting player. He is a very gifted athlete first and foremost. He is listed at 6’4″ and 259 lbs. He played at defensive tackle last season behind Jordan Williams due to the lack of depth. He is actually better suited to play defensive end.

The fact that Mixon bulked up to 280 lbs last season to play a position that was not his true position tells you he understands what it is to be a true Volunteer. Now that Tennessee has built a little depth at tackle (still not enough by any means) Mixon will probably move back out to end.

His battle for playing time is not so much on him as it is All SEC guys like Barnett and Maggitt. Mixon is going to get in plenty of work in games this season however. It will be beneficial to rotate these guys in and out as much as possible.

As the offensive line wears down in the fourth quarter, having quality guys like Mixon that can get after the quarterback is just icing on the cake.

Next: Has He Finally Come Into His Own?