The biggest unknown surrounding Tennessee's transition to Joe Milton

Last time we saw Joe Milton, he looked pretty good. Tennessee got a win over Clemson in the Orange Bowl, giving those in Knoxville confidence in the quarterback situation for 2023. Even so, there is something Milton needs to prove on a consistent basis and will be an unknown until he does.

We all know Milton’s arm strength is his best attribute. He showed it off recently at the Manning Passing Academy, blowing everyone in attendance away. But whether or not Milton can be accurate in Josh Heupel‘s offense will be a determining factor.

If Milton can show his touch compares to Hendon Hooker‘s from a season ago, watch out.

“I personally believe he is,” PicKell said, putting his faith in Milton’s accuracy. “If that unknown turns out in Tennessee’s favor, the good news for Tennessee fans is that puts the opposing defense on their heels tremendously because you’re not able to just sit in zone and bank on an inaccurate pass. If Joe Milton is able to be a consistent passer this offense will be able to maximize the ability the have around Joe Milton.”

If Milton is not able hit his receivers on a consistent basis, Tennessee could run into some trouble. PicKell explained how Heupel’s offense is all about setting the defense up. Once the Vols decide to go for it, the quarterback needs to be able to deliver.

“A lot of Josh Heupel’s scheme is setting the defense up,” PicKell said. “You set them up with the run, you spread them out, and you set them up. And eventually, somebody wins on the outside or that safety rolls down too close to the box to try to help in run support… Then you have a deep pass downfield open.”

PicKell has faith it’s going to work. The most recent result works in that favor, with Milton completing 19 of 28 passes for 251 yards and three touchdowns. More of the same during the 2023 season and you can expect back-to-back 10 wins seasons on Rocky Top for the first time since 2003-2004.

“They lost Hendon Hooker, they lost Jalin Hyatt,” PicKell said. “Both gone to the league. I truly believe that Joe Milton is going to be a force this coming season. If he’s able to be a force and Tennessee picks up where they left off a season ago offensively, they’re going to be another double-digit win football team.”