Pittsburgh assistant points out 2 things that make the Tennessee Vols a tough team in 2022
Pittsburgh Panthers defensive line coach Charlie Partridge met with reporters this week and he had some interesting things to say about what makes the Tennessee Vols a good team. For starters, Partridge says Tennessee is snapping the ball four seconds faster than they did in 2021. "Last year at this time, on average, we timed […]
Pittsburgh Panthers defensive line coach Charlie Partridge met with reporters this week and he had some interesting things to say about what makes the Tennessee Vols a good team.
For starters, Partridge says Tennessee is snapping the ball four seconds faster than they did in 2021.
"Last year at this time, on average, we timed how long it takes them from whistle to snap and they're four seconds faster than they were a year ago," said Partridge.
He also noted that Tennessee's offense is operating more efficiently now than when Pittsburgh saw the Vols last season because they've had more time together.
"A year ago we were facing them after one game together, now we're facing them after 14 games together," added Partridge. "So it's really not a surprise to us that they're operating at that optimum speed."
Partridge pointed out that the reason Tennessee is able to move so fast is because of how well-coached the team is — specifically, the way players know exactly what to do between plays.
"This group is different (compared to other teams that operate with tempo)," explained Partridge. "If you watch their players after a [play], you may have one of the referees on the sideline begging for the ball, but he's being ignored as that player is throwing to the umpire so it'll get set that much faster."
"They truly have it down to a science…in some ways, you have to marvel at how they do it."
Patridge almost sounds like a fan while talking about the Vols. There's no doubt he's impressed.
His comments also show us that Pitt has definitely been putting the work in to get prepared for Tennessee.
Will that work pay off? We'll see on Saturday. It should be another great installment of the Johnny Majors classic.
Featured image via Calvin Mattheis/News Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK
