Tennessee’s offense is so good that the Vols didn’t even seem to miss one of their most decorated players against Florida.
The Vols were without preseason, second team All-SEC receiver Cedric Tillman against the Gators. No matter. The Vols won 38-33, in part, because the passing game never skipped a beat.
The Vols racked up 349 yards without Tillman. It was proof that Tennessee is incredibly deep at receiver and UT coach Josh Heupel can get a receiver wide open whenever he feels like it.
Bru McCoy was one of those talented receivers that Heupel made sure had ample opportunities. McCoy caught five passes for 102 yards and a touchdown. McCoy was aware of Tillman’s pending absence, but said that only affected his approach to an extent.
“You don’t really think about anything more than the scheme and executing and doing what you need to do,” McCoy said. “We knew that there was a lot that was going to fall on those that had to step up, me being one of them.
“Nothing really changed as far as the mindset. We stayed focused and locked in on what we need to accomplish.”
McCoy wasn’t the only UT wideout that had an impact in Tillman’s absence. Jalin Hyatt caught five passes for 58 yards. Ramel Keyton caught three passes for 69 yards, including an incredible diving reception that was good for 43 yards.
Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker didn’t seem surprised at all after the game that everything went so well despite not having Tillman. He said he saw UT’s receivers putting in extra work this week, just like they always do. He recalled seeing the receiving crew catching passes from the Jugs machine after dinner last week.
“They’re constantly in the film room,” Hooker said. “They’re constantly eager to get better. When I say I have trust in all my receivers, I really have trust in all my receivers because they make plays on a daily basis. This is nothing new.
“We’ve seen Ramel make these plays all the time so I have full trust in everyone that’s out there with me and I love getting them the ball.”
Hooker and his teammates also loved the atmosphere on Saturday. There were countless pregame shows, including ESPN’s College Gameday, in town for the game. It’s was quite the stage. McCoy admittedly was taken aback and has been since the season began.
“I didn’t really know what I was getting myself into in the best way ever,” said McCoy, who transferred from Southern California following the 2021 season. “I couldn’t picture it. I couldn’t fathom it, the sound, the crowd, the games. It’s an unbelievable experience. It’s surreal.
“I made the best decision I’ve made coming here.”
