What To Know
- The quarterback position is the heart of any offense, and for the Tennessee Volunteers, the question of who will start under center has been a hot topic of debate.
- Based on his spring performance, potential, and areas for improvement, it is plausible that Hyatt could be a serious contender for the starting role.
- Hyatt’s potential is undeniable, and if he continues to develop, he could become a star for the Vols.
The quarterback position is the heart of any offense, and for the Tennessee Volunteers, the question of who will start under center has been a hot topic of debate. Among the candidates, Jalin Hyatt has emerged as a potential frontrunner. But is he ready to take the reins?
A Glimpse into Hyatt’s Past
Jalin Hyatt, a sophomore from Irmo, South Carolina, joined the Tennessee Volunteers in 2021. As a freshman, he primarily played in a reserve role, recording 20 catches for 212 yards and two touchdowns.
Spring Performance and Hype
During the spring game in April 2023, Hyatt showcased his exceptional skills. He completed 12 of 17 passes for 146 yards and two touchdowns. His impressive performance fueled speculation about his potential as a starting quarterback.
Evaluating Hyatt’s Strengths
Hyatt possesses several attributes that make him a viable starting candidate:
- Athleticism: He is a mobile quarterback with quick feet and the ability to extend plays.
- Arm Strength: Hyatt has a strong arm and can deliver accurate passes with good velocity.
- Decision-Making: Despite his limited starting experience, Hyatt has shown good judgment in making quick and effective decisions.
Areas for Improvement
While Hyatt has shown promise, there are a few areas where he could improve:
- Experience: Hyatt lacks extensive starting experience, which could be a concern in high-pressure situations.
- Consistency: He has shown some inconsistency in his accuracy and decision-making.
- Pocket Presence: Hyatt needs to develop better pocket awareness and avoid unnecessary sacks.
Coach Heupel’s Perspective
Head coach Josh Heupel has remained tight-lipped about his quarterback plans. He has praised Hyatt‘s abilities but has also emphasized the importance of competition and experience.
The Competition
Hyatt faces competition from several other talented quarterbacks, including Hendon Hooker, Joe Milton, and Tayven Jackson. Hooker, the incumbent starter, is a proven performer but is recovering from an injury. Milton and Jackson are both experienced and have shown flashes of potential.
The Verdict
The decision of whether or not Jalin Hyatt will start is ultimately up to Coach Heupel. Based on his spring performance, potential, and areas for improvement, it is plausible that Hyatt could be a serious contender for the starting role. However, the competition is fierce, and other quarterbacks on the roster may also have a chance to prove their worth.
The Road Ahead
Regardless of who starts under center, the Tennessee Volunteers have a promising future. Hyatt’s potential is undeniable, and if he continues to develop, he could become a star for the Vols. The quarterback competition will undoubtedly be one of the most intriguing storylines to watch as the season approaches.
What People Want to Know
Q: When will the starting quarterback for Tennessee be announced?
A: Coach Heupel has not announced a timeline for naming the starting quarterback.
Q: Is Jalin Hyatt the favorite to start?
A: Hyatt is considered a strong contender for the starting role but faces competition from other quarterbacks.
Q: What are Hyatt’s biggest strengths and weaknesses as a quarterback?
A: Hyatt’s strengths include his athleticism, arm strength, and decision-making. His areas for improvement are experience, consistency, and pocket presence.
Q: Who are the other quarterbacks competing for the starting role?
A: Hyatt faces competition from Hendon Hooker, Joe Milton, and Tayven Jackson.
Q: What impact could Hyatt’s starting status have on the Tennessee offense?
A: If Hyatt starts, he could bring a dynamic and explosive element to the offense with his mobility and passing ability.
