“It’s all about choices and decisions”. “We look forward to returning to South Carolina at a better time”. Howard was suspended for the season opener against Bowling Green in Nashville because of another unspecified violation of team rules. He returned for the Oklahoma game and then played against Western Carolina but was absent for UT’s previous two games against Florida and Arkansas. He was the Vols leading receiver last year, but hasn’t played much this year. Marquez North has also battled injuries since fall camp and Jason Croom has been sidelined since December. However, the Vols passing game still ranks 85 in the country and 11 in the SEC. The senior was the flawless fit for Tennessee’s offense in 2014 as an x-factor who could turn short passes into long gains and excel on end-arounds.
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Two Tennessee veterans expressed their disappointment in Howard’s departure, but said they are trying to shake it off to focus on ending their two-game losing skid.
“The individuals that have been there have done an exceptional job”, Jones said.
But now, the majority of the fan base is calling for his job after a disappointing 2-3 start. Tennessee has started the group of Kyler Kerbyson, Jashon Robertson, Coleman Thomas, Dylan Wiesman and Kendrick in all five games this season.
On Monday, Jones said Howard was dealing with a number of injuries including a concussion.
The Orlando, Fla., native was briefly away from the program in the spring of 2014, but rejoined the team during that summer and had a productive junior season – finishing fourth in the SEC in receptions. Tennessee doesn’t have a single wideout with more than 12 catches or 117 yards receiving.
As Howard has struggled to stay in the lineup, the Vols have found receiving replacements in Ethan Wolf, Preston Williams and Josh Malone. Personally, I still have a few dignity.
It doesn’t seem like the Vols’ season is going to make any sudden improvements.
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The University of Tennessee as chosen to run the ball more than it has thrown it this season.
