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Mocs’ three keys to the season

Defensive lineman Toyvian Brand, Keionta Davis and Vantrell McMillan, from left, participate in the first day of football practice for the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga on Sunday, Aug. 3, 2015, in Chattanooga, Tenn.
Defensive lineman Toyvian Brand, Keionta Davis and Vantrell McMillan, from left, participate in the first day of football practice for the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga on Sunday, Aug. 3, 2015, in Chattanooga, Tenn. Defensive lineman Toyvian Brand, Keionta Davis and Vantrell McMillan, from left, participate in the first day of football practice for the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga on Sunday, Aug. 3, 2015, in Chattanooga, Tenn.

By Gene Henley 2 min read

photo UTC defensive lineman Keionta Davis, right, tackles Wofford quarterback Michael Weimer during the Mocs’ 31-13 win over the Wofford Terriers on Saturday, Nov. 8, 2014, at Finley Stadium in Chattanooga, Tenn. The win nets the Mocs the SoCon championship and a spot in the playoffs.

1. Keep Jacob Huesman healthy

Although this is a rehash from the previous season, it’s just as important this year as it was last – if not more. The senior quarterback accounted for 3,740 yards of total offense as a junior and as has been the case the previous two seasons, he makes the offense go. The offensive line and receiving corps have improved from a season ago, and there is some experience as well as some young talent in the backfield, so Huesman should have every opportunity to be as productive as he was last season. But for that to happen, he’s going to have to remain healthy as the team attempts a deep playoff run in his final season.

2. Handle the expectations – again

Last season, a Southern Conference championship was the expectation, and the Mocs handled that extremely well, with a 7-0 mark and an average margin of victory of more than 26 points. This year, the talk has been “championship or bust,” but the targeted championship is a national title. The Mocs are overwhelming favorites to win the SoCon again this season, so for the second consecutive season they’re going to be the big game for most of their opponents. They’re going to have to handle that pressure.

3. Have playmakers emerge on the defensive line

The departure of four seniors who started or played extensive time in 2014 has weakened what was one of the most dominant units in the nation last season. Tackle Josh Freeman and end Keionta Davis are sure-fire decisions and will be expected to produce, but there are a lot of unknowns behind them. However, there seems to be talent. Toyvian Brand, Vantrel McMillan and D.J. Prather will be among the players asked to produce at end, and Taylor Reynolds, Isaiah Mack and Tennessee transfer Justin King are working to replace production lost with the exit of tackles Danny Ring and Derrick Lott. If playmakers don’t emerge, more pressure will be on the linebackers and secondary to cover. While it’s a job they’re capable of, it’s not one the coaching staff wants to ask of them.