Tennessee Vols junior deserves a lot of credit for something that happened off the field against Akron
Tennessee Vols fans should obviously be thrilled after UT's big win against Akron on Saturday night. Sure, it's a game the Vols expected to win. But a 63-6 win is reason for celebration, regardless of the opponent. One moment, however, that shouldn't be celebrated was the unfortunate incident that happened between Vols wide receiver Jimmy […]
Tennessee Vols fans should obviously be thrilled after UT's big win against Akron on Saturday night.
Sure, it's a game the Vols expected to win. But a 63-6 win is reason for celebration, regardless of the opponent.
One moment, however, that shouldn't be celebrated was the unfortunate incident that happened between Vols wide receiver Jimmy Calloway and an Akron defender.
In the second half, Calloway threw several punches and was ejected from the game.
Vols head coach Josh Heupel expressed frustration with the incident after the game.
"Just disappointing, because it takes away from the rest of the football game," said Heupel. "It’s not who we are or what we stand for in any area of our program. He’s disappointed, too, in what happened. Teachable moment for everybody. Can’t do it. We’re not going to be able to do that and beat good football teams as we get into conference play. Can’t do anything that takes away from the team, hurts the team.”
The only positive from the incident was the way Vols junior wide receiver Jalin Hyatt handled it.
Hyatt quickly took Calloway aside and spoke to him intently (presumably about why he can't throw punches during a game).
ESPN's telecast caught the moment between the two players.
Calloway made a bad error in judgment. Those things happen — even with good teams.
The good news is that Tennessee has such incredible leadership that a player was there to immediately address the situation. Sometimes — especially in the heat of the moment — it's best that a player steps up and addresses a teammate. And that's what Hyatt did at that moment.
Hyatt had a huge game — five catches for 166 yards and two touchdowns — but he should be most proud of the way he handled a tough situation with his teammate.
Featured image via Calvin Mattheis/News Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK
