Tennessee Vols: John Kelly Has The Attitude UT Needs
By Zach Ragan
Tennessee Vols starting running back John Kelly is key to the program’s success in 2017.
After the Tennessee Vols’ thrilling come-from-behind win on Monday night against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, I’m as convinced as ever that John Kelly is going to be a star in the SEC.
Kelly rushed for a career high 128 yards and four touchdowns against the Yellow Jackets.
Not only was Kelly effective running the ball, but he looked like the type of punishing running back that thrives in the SEC. Kelly runs angry and gets extra yards by dragging tacklers. He’s truly a joy to watch.
As if my love for Kelly wasn’t already high, a comment he made to the media on Wednesday made me love him even more.
John Kelly on taking some punishment on Monday, 'I don't know about punishment. We were playing football out there.'
— Rob Lewis (@Volquest_Rob) September 6, 2017
Oh man, that’s exactly the kind of attitude you want from your starting running back.
It’s hard to believe that Kelly was the third running back on the depth chart at one point last season.
The Vols have a special player in Kelly. He’s a guy the offense can lean on this season. That’s especially important with a new quarterback under center.
Kelly, since he’s the clear number one running back, has an opportunity to have a special season in Knoxville in 2017. I wouldn’t be surprised if he ends up having one of the better all-time seasons for a Tennessee running back.
Next: Evan Berry Should Sit Against Indiana State
Personally, I can’t wait to see what Kelly will do against some of the Vols’ SEC rivals. He looks like the type of player that enjoys rising to the occasion. The better the competition, the better Kelly gets.