Tennessee's Jaylen McCollough cleared to play following arrest

Tennessee may have a key defensive starter back for tomorrow’s game vs. Kentucky. ESPN is reporting that senior safety Jaylen McCollough has been cleared to play by both the university and athletic department following his Oct. 9 arrest for felony aggravated assault. McCollough punched a man who accidentally entered his apartment, causing him to fall backward down a flight of stairs and lose consciousness.

McCollough missed the last two games as university officials reviewed the case. He returned to practice this week but head coach Josh Heupel declined to say whether he will play vs. Kentucky. Sources tell ESPN that missed practice time and lingering health concerns will be the main factors in the decision. Police say McCollough’s right hand was in blood-soaked bandages at the time of the arrest. The senior has 32 career starts and was tied for fourth on the team with 23 tackles, 15 solo before the incident. He had seven tackles in the Vols’ win over LSU on Oct. 8.

Vols WR Cedric Tillman expected to play, per report

The other big question mark for Tennessee going into tomorrow night is wide receiver Cedric Tillman. The Vols’ leading receiver from last season injured his left ankle in the Akron game on Sept. 17 and underwent tightrope surgery. WBIR in Knoxville is reporting that Tillman is expected to play tomorrow night barring any setbacks. Heupel said yesterday he’ll be a game-time decision.

Prior to being hurt, Tillman had 17 receptions for 246 yards and a touchdown. Last season, he led the Vols in catches (64), receiving yards (1,081), and touchdown catches (12). While he was out, Jalin Hyatt has emerged as Tennessee’s top receiver, with 40 catches for 769 yards and a nation-leading 12 touchdown catches.