New faces and inexperience at quarterback, breaking in new receivers or ******* istant coaches, one thing has remained the same for Josh Heupel — the running game is the secret sauce. He's told us that time and time again, and he continues to prove himself correct.
Last year it was DeSean Bishop next in the pipeline, taking the reins from Dylan Sampson. Bishop responded with a 1,076 yard season, scoring 16 times while averaging nearly six yards per carry. The local product and former walk-on took his opportunity and has turned himself into a legitimate NFL prospect, and he's looking for more in 2026.
Bishop is up to 215 pounds, ready to take on the grind of the nine-game SEC slate. He battled through some injuries last season but hopes to be fully healthy for the duration this time around. Bishop is no question heading into the season, but what about what's behind him? Tennessee uses a rotation regardless of who is at the top of the depth chart, so establishing that second and third option is an important key for Josh Heupel over the next few weeks of camp. Knowing the system, operating in tempo and little things like pass protection will all go into making that decision.
Tennessee played three backs last season and that appears to be the plan once again this year. Daune Morris forced his way onto the field in the second half of the season, getting his feet wet in the offense. The sophomore back brings something different to the backfield, offering a little more agility and burst. Morris could bring a little more explosiveness as the workhorse Bishop gets a rest after the first few series.
Morris handled 35 carries for 133 yards last season, although ran behind several mop-up duty offensive lines.
#bishop #tennessee
Last year it was DeSean Bishop next in the pipeline, taking the reins from Dylan Sampson. Bishop responded with a 1,076 yard season, scoring 16 times while averaging nearly six yards per carry. The local product and former walk-on took his opportunity and has turned himself into a legitimate NFL prospect, and he's looking for more in 2026.
Bishop is up to 215 pounds, ready to take on the grind of the nine-game SEC slate. He battled through some injuries last season but hopes to be fully healthy for the duration this time around. Bishop is no question heading into the season, but what about what's behind him? Tennessee uses a rotation regardless of who is at the top of the depth chart, so establishing that second and third option is an important key for Josh Heupel over the next few weeks of camp. Knowing the system, operating in tempo and little things like pass protection will all go into making that decision.
Tennessee played three backs last season and that appears to be the plan once again this year. Daune Morris forced his way onto the field in the second half of the season, getting his feet wet in the offense. The sophomore back brings something different to the backfield, offering a little more agility and burst. Morris could bring a little more explosiveness as the workhorse Bishop gets a rest after the first few series.
Morris handled 35 carries for 133 yards last season, although ran behind several mop-up duty offensive lines.
#bishop #tennessee
3 months ago
