We Didn't Learn Much About Joe Milton vs. Virginia - But That's OK

Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Joe Milton III didn't do anything we hadn't seen before against Virginia, but that's no reason for concern as we march forward.

There's one major question for Tennessee's offense this season - can quarterback Joe Milton III replicate what Hendon Hooker did the past two years? If yes, the Vols should be considered a national title contender. If not, they win around 8-9 games, and we may not know which answer it is until later in the season.

We saw nothing new from Milton in the season opener against Virginia. He's already shown that his timing and decision-making have improved during his time with the program - he did more of the same on Saturday. He didn't make many errant throws, but he also struggled with accuracy at various points. Milton flashed the arm talent on a deep ball for wide receiver Ramel Keyton, who dropped the surefire touchdown. Tennessee used Milton in the ground game, threw screens to the boundary, and essentially avoided giving away too much information.

Head coach Josh Heupel ran many sets similar to his game plan for the Orange Bowl, and why wouldn't he? Tennessee entered action with a gaping talent disparity, and they didn't have to reinvent the wheel to come out victorious. They ran basic concepts throughout the afternoon, keeping the reads easy for Milton. The coaching staff leaned on the ground game, getting all three running backs extensive touches. They likely feature a similar gameplan next weekend against Austin Peay - the first time they dip into the bag of tricks should be at Florida in week three.

Is that frustrating as a fan? Sure. But there's no reason to do anything more than you have to for the first two games of the season. Win the games comfortably and leave with as few injuries as possible. There's a lot of excitement behind the scenes about Milton, which came to light this week ahead of the season opener. While we may have to wait for it, Heupel and company are ensuring that Milton fully settles into the season before asking him to show the college football world who they believe he is.

Tennessee Volunteers QB Joe Milton III warming up before the Virginia game on September 2nd, 2023, in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Caitie McMekin of the News Sentinel)

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