Just a brief update on Austin as he continues with pre-season practice in Knoxville. There is no question that graduating from HHS early and getting to Knoxville for the spring semester has paid off for the Bruiser. Going into spring practice Austin was listed as a 4th-string linebacker. When it was over, however, he was the 2nd-string fullback. Austin also received a mention in Lindy's preview of the Volunteers."Freshman linebacker Austin Johnson was moved to fullback and made an immediate impact."
Under new offensive coordinator Dave Clawson the fullback is basically an H-back in that he will be used a great deal as a receiver as well as a blocker.
Hickory fans and opponents know that Austin has a great set of hands. So although he is a fullback most of his touches will be receptions rather than carries. Once he is "in space" with the football he is hard to bring down. He is also an outstanding blocker.Austin is one of several Volunteers who hail from North Carolina. These include Tennessee's new starting quarterback, Jonathan Crompton of Waynesville. One of Crompton's prime targets will be senior wide receiver Josh Briscoe from Lawndale. And joining Crompton in the backfield will be backup tailback Monterio Hardesty of New Bern.
If Austin maintains his place on the depth chart then he should make the traveling squad. This means that his first-ever college football game will be played in the Rose Bowl against the UCLA Bruins. That's exciting stuff for a guy who opened last season at home against the Statesville Greyhounds!
2 comments:
Thanks for the update on Austin. Is there still a possibility of him being red-shirted this season? We are looking forward to seeing him play for the Vols. There is nothing like going to a Tennessee game, walking to the stadium with the band, and then watching the Power T take the field. Not to mention, seeing "Smokey" on the sidelines.
Good luck Austin! Make Hickory proud!
Wilet,
To answer you question about redshirting... Yes there is still a chance. I've been told that the decision probably won't be made until right before the season opener. But as long as he maintains his position on the depth chart than I don't see how they can redshirt him. If he's the backup to the starter than he's going to get playing time. But yes he still might get redshirted...I doubt it though.
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