University of Tennessee Athletics
Position Outlook:Tight End
July 11, 2004 | Football
June 19, 2004
2004 ROSTER | NEWCOMERS | SCHEDULE | POSITION OUTLOOKS
The ages-old, fundamental philosophy about tight ends - that they are blockers first and pass-catchers second - could be carved in stone at UT in 2004.
At least that's how it appears at first glance. Last year provided lean rations for tight ends, a group that among them "combined" for a grand total of one catch for the entire campaign.
With potential phenom Robert Meachem returning from the injured list to join in the competition at the already well-stocked wide receivers position, the conventional wisdom is that the Vols might have a stronger contingent of pass-catchers than they had a year ago. That could crush the hopes of tight ends that they will be coming to the fore as receivers, something they all dream about.
But reports from spring workouts revealed that the coaches devoted more than customary practice time to developing the tight ends' ability to get open.
Perhaps that's going to be the answer to the ticket-buying public's annual clamor for passing the ball once in a while to the tight end.
That may be, but the Vols competing for playing time would be well advised not to ignore the need to bring their blocking proficiency up to snuff. Victor McClure, a senior earmarked for a starting role, was the recipient of the lone pass delivered to the tight end. At 310 pounds, he should certainly be capable of delivering a pulverizing block or two.
"Victor's a guy who played well for us last year," tight ends coach Greg Adkins. "He didn't have a lot of catches but now seems to be more involved in the offense."
Redshirt freshman Brad Cottam and juniors Justin Reed and Jake Finlayson will try to overcome the edge McClure established in spring practice.
