Tennessee Football: Vols Release Projected Depth Chart

As game week kicks off, the Tennessee Volunteers release their projected depth chart. Although it is subject to change, fans have an idea of who will start.

Earlier today, the Tennessee Volunteers released their projected two-deep depth chart ahead of the season opener against West Virginia.  While the fans now have a better sense of who will be starting, head coach Jeremy Pruitt insists there is still some competition going on, most notably at the quarterback position.

The fans went into a frenzy today after its release because according to the chart, Jarrett Guarantano is going to be the starting quarterback.  During today’s press conference, Coach Pruitt said it is likely that both Guarantano and Chryst will see action during Saturday’s game.  Which is not surprising considering the Volunteers have all new coaches and looking at the depth chart, they are technically listed as co-starters.

Something else for Vols fans to be excited about is the return of preseason All-SEC offensive lineman Trey Smith.  After missing the spring and half of fall camp due to blood clots in his lungs, Smith has been fully released by doctors and is expected to start at left tackle.

Other notable offensive linemen are Brandon Kennedy (C), Drew Richmond (RT), Ryan Johnson (RG), and Jahmir Johnson (LG).

At the running back position, it appears the coaches will take a running back by committee approach.  While there is no way to know which player will carry the brunt of the load, the top three are Tim Jordan (SO), Ty Chandler (SO), and Madre London (R-SR).  Although Jeremy Banks, the true freshman, is listed fourth it is possible that he will see the field as well.  Given his size, he would more than likely be used in short yardage situations.

Volunteers’ fans should also feel happy about the return of Jauan Jennings at the wide receiver position.  After being kicked off the team late last season after a profanity-laced tirade on social media, it was unclear whether the fan favorite receiver would be allowed to suit up for the Vols this season.  While it is unclear if Jennings will actually start the game, he will likely see plenty of time on the field.  Other receivers will be Marquez Callaway, Brandon Johnson, and Josh Palmer.

One of the most intriguing positions listed is the cornerbacks.  The two players likely to start the game will be Baylen Buchanan (JR) and true freshman Alontae Taylor.  Taylor was originally thought to be a wide receiver and after being moved to the defensive side of the ball, he has made great progress.  Bryce Thompson is another true freshman who has turned some heads during the offseason and is expected to see some playing time as well.

As I said before, Jeremy Pruitt has said there are still positions where the starters are undecided.  While this may be true, this is more than likely a strategic move by the first time head coach to keep from showing his hand.

I do not expect the starters to remain the same throughout the year but Tennessee fans will have to wait and see.  One thing is for certain, regardless of who is listed as a starter on the depth chart at the beginning of the week, no one will know for sure until game time.