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Justin Worley postgame evaluation: Week 2 vs. Arkansas State
By Jason Hall
Published:
After opening the 2014 season with a career day, Tennessee quarterback Justin Worley enjoyed another breakout performance in a 34-19 win over Arkansas State in Week 2. Worley finished with 247 yards and two touchdowns on 22-of-38 passing. He also found the end zone on a 5-yard quarterback keeper in the third quarter.
After reclaiming the starting job this offseason, Worley has exceeded the expectations of the Tennessee fan base. One of the hardest careers to truly define, Worley has seen his highs and lows since enrolling in Knoxville. As a senior, he is on pace to finally have a career defining season. With a talented group of wide receivers, Worley has a plethora of targets in 2014 and should continue to find success.
Against Arkansas State, Worley looked poised and confident with a strong pocket presence. His mobility has seen an improvement, which is important in Tennessee’s read option offense. The Vols’ young offensive line looked strong against the pass rush and has provided Worley with time to allow plays to develop. This is especially important in helping a quarterback with a history of injuries avoid sacks.
Worley’s only glaring mistake came in the third quarter when he was intercepted by Money Hunter. Otherwise there weren’t too many negative takeaways to analyze in Week 2. However, the first two games may seem like an illusion if Worley fails to continue his success against improved competition.
Entering games against Oklahoma, Georgia and Florida, Worley will have to prove that his impressive start is legitimate and not just the beneficiary of weaker competition. Many experts are underselling the talent level of both Utah State and Arkansas State. Both teams possess plenty of talent on the defensive side. Still, the level of competition will see a drastic increase next weekend and Worley will have to prove he truly is the quarterback we’ve seen the past two weeks.
A former freelance journalist from Nashville, Jason covers Tennessee, Vanderbilt and Kentucky
