Part of running a successful program is dealing with NFL departures. Part of dealing with NFL decisions is also dealing with opt-outs during bowl season, which is exactly what we’ve got here with Tennessee. On top of losing quarterback Hendon Hooker to a torn ACL, the Volunteers (as expected) will be without Cedric Tillman and Jalin Hyatt in Miami for the Orange Bowl.
Tennessee’s top two receivers will focus on preparing for the NFL, which will force backup quarterback Joe Milton to play with Bru McCoy, Ramel Keyton and some younger receivers. Nothing against Keyton and McCoy, but that’s quite a bit of firepower to replace on short notice.