Tennessee Vols coach sends important message to pass rusher James Pearce after big game against Virginia
Tennessee Vols sophomore pass rusher James Pearce, a former four-star recruit, had a breakout game against the Virginia Cavaliers this past weekend. Pearce totaled three tackles and recorded two sacks in Tennessee's 49-13 win against Virginia. The Charlotte, NC native is expected to play a huge role for the Vols this season. And if he […]
Tennessee Vols sophomore pass rusher James Pearce, a former four-star recruit, had a breakout game against the Virginia Cavaliers this past weekend.
Pearce totaled three tackles and recorded two sacks in Tennessee's 49-13 win against Virginia.
The Charlotte, NC native is expected to play a huge role for the Vols this season. And if he continues to perform at a high level, Pearce could quickly become a star in the SEC.
Tennessee defensive coordinator Tim Banks liked what he saw from Pearce in the season-opener. Banks, however, cautioned Pearce against becoming complacent because of his good game against the Cavaliers.
Instead, Banks wants Pearce to put the Virginia game behind him and focus on putting more good performances on tape.
"Obviously we're very confident in James," said Banks to reporters on Tuesday. "His growth has been great for us. We saw it last year, him starting to make some strides and make some even better strides through the spring. We're not surprised with the display he put on this weekend. Just like I told him, I tell you the same — nobody cares after the first game. You got to continue to put it on tape week in and week out. It's not just him but everybody on the defense. We're excited about him, that's why we recruited him. He's a great kid who's only going to get better and I think he'll be the first one to tell you that."
Pearce has a chance to be a special player for the Vols, but only if he continues to work hard. He had a great offseason and that showed against Virginia. Pearce should only get better from here as long as he heeds Banks' advice.
Tennessee should use recent quote from Shane Beamer as motivation for looming matchup against South Carolina
The Tennessee Vols should use a recent quote from Shane Beamer as motivation for looming matchup against South Carolina
Featured image via Caitie McMekin/News Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK
