Jauan Jennings: ‘I’m the leader. We’re going to get this right’

We can always count on Jauan Jennings to say what needs to be said.

After an embarrassing loss to Georgia State on Saturday, there weren’t many bright spots to point to. Jennings was the exception to that, snagging seven catches for over 100 yards in the first game of his senior season.

Jennings looked fully healthy for the first time in a long time, looking like the difference maker he used to be for this Tennessee offense.

Unfortunately for him, Jauan didn’t get much help. The offensive line was good in spurts, but struggled overall. The defense? Well, it was quite simply a disaster.

“What happened last week was unacceptable and it won’t happen again,” Jennings told the media on Tuesday. “I am the leader, so we’re going to get this right.”

Tennessee was left searching for those leaders, particularly on the defensive side of the ball on Saturday afternoon. Down three senior starters, along with standout sophomore cornerback Bryce Thompson, the Tennessee defense was clueless. The offense was better — thanks in part to the effort of Jennings — but still overall disappointing against an inferior opponent.

But Jauan has the right attitude. He’s doing his best to make sure one game doesn’t define Tennessee’s 2019.

“I didn’t sign up for a one game fight,” Jennings said. “This is a 12 game fight. We can’t wait to get back on Saturday and show how prepared we are for this game.”

Tennessee currently sits as a field goal favorite heading into Saturday night’s game against BYU. Their effort in this one could very well define the remainder of this season.