After a hot 4-0 start, the number four ranked Tennessee Volunteers went into their off week needing to get healthy at some key positions. Starting Left Tackle Lance Heard had missed the last two games against Kent State and Oklahoma before the week five off date. Starting Right Tackle John Campbell Jr. and Defensive Back Boo Carter both exited the Oklahoma game, while reserve Offensive Lineman Sham Umarov missed the game in Norman after being banged up in the victory over Kent State.
The good news is none of those four were included in the initial injury report on Wednesday. However, four players were listed as OUT for Saturday’s primetime matchup with Arkansas in Fayetteville. Who were they and what does it mean for the Tennessee Volunteers’ depth against the Razorbacks?
Tennessee Volunteers Injury Report
In the offseason, the Southeastern Conference implemented required “accurate and timely” availability reports for each football program. Those who fail to do so could be fined between $25,000 and $100,000 depending on the number of offenses.
In the press release announcing the new rule, conference commissioner Greg Sankey said, “This availability reporting policy is intended to reduce pressure from outside entities seeking participation information and represents a commitment of our 16 institutions to provide enhanced transparency to support efforts to protect our student-athletes and the integrity of competition.”
The Tennessee Volunteers released their initial injury report for week six on Wednesday. Only four players were listed, however they were classified as OUT for the Vols game with Arkansas.
DB Jourdan Thomas was injured in fall camp and will miss the entire 2024 season with a knee injury. Thomas was a projected starter in the Tennessee secondary before his preseason injury. Christian Harrison and Boo Carter have stepped in and split the majority of the defensive snaps in place of the injured Thomas.
LB Edwin Spillman and DB Montrell Bandy played against Oklahoma, but will not play against Arkansas. DB John Slaughter missed the 25-15 victory over Oklahoma and will miss his second consecutive game. All three have played in reserve and special teams roles for the Tennessee Volunteers so far in the 2024 season.
Final Thoughts
The biggest development is the absence of Lance Heard, John Campbell Jr., and Boo Carter on the initial injury report. Having all starters available on the offensive line against conference foes is paramount for Tennessee’s success. Protecting star Quarterback Nico Iamaleava is probably the most important key to Tennessee’s season.
Boo Carter’s health is important due to not having Jourdan Thomas for the season. He and Christian Harrison have played well in the Tennessee Volunteers secondary. Carter has seven total tackles and two quarterback hurries so far on the season. He also has two punt returns for 55 yards with a 35-yard season-long.
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