Tennessee Vols wide receiver Chris Brazzell, a transfer addition from Tulane, hasn’t had a true “breakout game” yet for the Volunteers.
In his first four games in a Vols uniform, Brazzell has 11 receptions for 140 yards and a touchdown.
Not bad, but not terrific, either.
One reason that Brazzell hasn’t put up more impressive numbers has simply been the way the first four games have played out for the Vols. Tennessee’s first three games were blowout wins, which meant less time on the field for UT’s first and second string players.
The Vols’ offensive game plan has also gone away from the passing game at times, depending on what looks opposing defenses are presenting.
Another reason Brazzell hasn’t posted big numbers (so far) this season is due to some consistency issues, something that Tennessee wide receivers coach Kelsey Pope pointed out on Tuesday.
“Chris knows the system,” said Pope when asked about Brazzell. “He understands it. He’s been really good at times and then there’s other times where he hasn’t really been to the standard. I think again that’s something that starts in practice. As he continues to go, he’s obviously progressing, getting better. I think as long as he’s got the right focus [and] he comes in with the right mentality, I think the sky will continue to be the limit for him. But the consistency piece will continue to be the factor. If we can’t be consistent, you won’t ever see the best of anybody in any position. So consistency, for him, will be the key.”
The ceiling is high for Brazzell. And the Vols will need him to be a playmaker in some big games down the stretch. The Texas native has elite size (6-foot-5/200 lbs) which can be extremely helpful in the red zone (which is an area where UT needs to improve). If Brazzell can find some consistency and meet the standard at Tennessee, he has the potential to be a big-time star in the SEC. But as Pope noted, consistency in practice and preparation will be key for the Tulane transfer moving forward.