James Pearce Named Co-SEC DPOTW

Tennessee Volunteers edge rusher James Pearce Jr. continued his excellent start to the year against Texas A&M, and the SEC has recognized him for his game-changing efforts.

The biggest development of 2023 for Tennessee has been the sudden emergence of edge rusher James Pearce Jr. On3 considered him a blue-chip talent coming out of high school, but most thought he needed time to develop and grow into his frame. After one season of learning, he's become a full-fledged superstar for this defense.

Pearce leads the team in sacks, boasting six after the Texas A&M game. He disrupts the tempo of the game and makes big plays in crucial spots. Pearce was the best player in the South Carolina and the Texas A&M games and has been playing like a future first-round pick.

Many in the national space are beginning to catch on to Pearce's efforts, and the SEC recognized his efforts on Monday morning. He earned Co-SEC Defensive Player of the Week honors after tallying three tackles and a sack against the Aggies. Pearce is one of the more disruptive players in the conference, as he can get pressure at any moment just of sheer ability and determination. Defensive line coach Rodney Garner has been an integral part of his development, and the Vols got a much-needed leap from an unexpecting young player. His efforts have opened things up for other defenders, and the whole defense is feeding off his energy right now.

Tennessee Volunteers EDGE James Pearce Jr. celebrating with ILB Aaron Beasley during a win over Virginia. (Photo by Caitie McMekin of the News Sentinel)

How To Watch: Tennessee @ Alabama

• Gameday: Saturday, October 21st, 2023.
• Game time: 3:30 pm ET
• TV: CBS
• Stadium: Bryant-Denny Stadium (Tuscaloosa, Alabama)
• Live stream on fuboTV: Start with a 7-day free trial!

You Might Also Like:

• Bru McCoy Undergoes Surgery, Tennessee Releases Statement
• Tennessee Rebuffs South Carolina, Gets First SEC Win
• Georgia Survives Auburn, SEC East Race Heating Up

Join the community:

Follow Evan Crowell on Twitter: @EvanVCrowell

You can follow us for future coverage by clicking "Follow" on the top right-hand corner of the page. Also, be sure to like us on Facebook @VolunteerCountry & follow us on Twitter at @VCountryFN.