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Justin Worley can’t get it done. He’s too inconsistent. He locks down receivers and struggles with accuracy.
These are examples of the criticism the Tennessee starting quarterback has faced throughout his career. Enrolling as the reigning Gatorade National Player of the Year, Worley entered his time in Knoxville with high expectations. However, his play has been rattled with inconsistency, showing a combination of potential and struggles in different games.
During his first two seasons, Worley saw limited action as the backup to both Tyler Bray and Matt Simms. When he did see the field, the young quarterback was rushed into situations without having prior reps with the first team offense, as was evident in his play. It wasn’t until his junior season that Worley became the true full-time starter.
As noted, Worley showed some signs of exceptional play at times, conducting an upset against South Carolina and nearly defeating Georgia. But he also had his share of struggles, having to adjust to then-new coach Butch Jones’ read option offense. Worley showed signs of improvement as the season continued, but halted any progress after a thumb injury forced him to miss the final four games of 2013.
Entering the season facing doubt once again, Worley answered with the best game of his collegiate career. The senior threw for 273 yards and three touchdowns on 27-of-38 passing, connecting with 11 different wide receivers. Worley recorded a 71.1 percent completion percentage and held a 157.5 quarterback rating.
The former Rock Hill standout finally showed a glimpse of why Tennessee invested so much into his arm this season. Worley has the potential to be a solid SEC quarterback and will flourish in the improved Vol offense. Tennessee’s inexperienced line looked solid in pass protection, which was originally a cause of concern given Worley’s past with injuries. If Worley continues to see solid time in the pocket, pass plays will develop downfield for a talented group of receivers.
Tennessee has the talent to help Worley cap off his tenure in Knoxville with a career season. If Sunday’s game was any indication, the senior silence any doubt about his consistency and level of play.
A former freelance journalist from Nashville, Jason covers Tennessee, Vanderbilt and Kentucky
