DEVELOP THE OFFENSE
The Mocs’ 2017 offense was the program’s worst statistically since the 2008 season, and the team’s 267.6 yards per game last year were the second-fewest in the past 25 seasons. The offensive line struggled, which in turn led to quarterbacks struggling and the running game never getting off the ground. The passing game was largely reduced for most of the season to screen passes, leading to minimal gains. Long drives resulted mainly in field goals. In the offseason, the coaching staff went to work, bringing in five new offensive linemen (three Football Bowl Subdivision transfers, two freshmen) as well as junior college All-America running back Tyrell Price. For the team to start reaching its potential, the offense will have to take major strides forward.
MAINTAIN A STRONG DEFENSE
The Mocs led the Southern Conference in total defense in 2017, but what may have been even more impressive was the fact they only allowed 25.8 points per game, which ranked fifth in the league. The offense’s inconsistency and futility led to a lot of short fields and had the defense rushing back onto the field frequently after short possessions. There is experience returning on all three levels – including lots of talent and depth in the defensive backfield – meaning that if the Mocs can adjust well to new coordinator Matt Feeney, who taught the defensive scheme to former coordinator Tom Kaufman, they could be even better this season.
SURVIVE THE FIVE
Head coach Tom Arth’s second UTC schedule sets up a little bit better than his first, when the Mocs faced nationally high-ranked Jacksonville State on national television, nationally ranked FBS foe LSU and UT-Martin, which became nationally ranked after beating UTC 21-7 in the third game of the season. The Mocs’ 2018 season could hinge on how well they handle the month of September, when they play three games on the road – against SoCon foes The Citadel and East Tennessee State as well as at UTM. Add to that the season opener against Tennessee Tech on Aug. 30 and a home game against league favorite Samford, and it appears the Mocs’ fortunes rest on where they stand after Sept. 29 in Johnson City.