Tennessee Running Back Star Thomas Details Sideline Preparation Fueling His Productive Start

Star Thomas' Sideline Prep Fuels Tennessee Football's Rushing Attack

Star Thomas, a transfer running back for Tennessee football, has quickly become a key component of the Volunteers' potent rushing attack. His success isn't just about raw talent, but also about dedicated preparation on the sideline, studying defenses and plays to maximize his productivity.

Sideline Study and Preparation

Before entering the game, Thomas diligently studies the opposing defense's approach to UT's run game. After the first two drives, he utilizes an iPad to rewatch plays from a different angle. He also warms up his legs on a stationary bike, ensuring he's physically ready when his opportunity arises. This pattern of sideline study has been consistent in the early part of the season.

“When the first and second series are over, I get the iPad and look at the plays and stuff," Thomas said. "Then I get on the bike. When my time comes, I just try to go out there and play.”

A Running Back By Committee Approach

Tennessee has adopted a "running back by committee" approach, utilizing DeSean Bishop, Peyton Lewis, and Star Thomas. This strategy allows each back to stay fresh and contribute effectively. Bishop gets the first series, Lewis the second, and then it's Thomas's turn. The backs are also very close and supportive of each other, which is contributing to their success.

"It's been great, knowing we all have the same goal and we all want to see each other be great," Thomas said. "And like (Bishop) said, it’s team success. If one of us having a good game, all of us having a good game, and that’s how we all look at it in the room."

Thomas's Impact and Evolution

Thomas, a 6-foot, 210-pounder from Homer, Louisiana, is a senior transfer. He has embraced the opportunity and leads all Tennessee running backs with 161 rushing yards and four touchdowns. Vols coach Josh Heupel has praised his evolution since arriving on campus, highlighting his improved understanding of the offense and his dedication to improving his physical conditioning.

"From the end of spring ball to the start of training camp, I'm not sure anybody changed more than he did," Heupel said. "He did an elite job with his body and with understanding the offense, and that was noticeable on day one when we got out on the practice field in the early part of training camp."

Preparing for Georgia

As Tennessee prepares for their SEC opener against No. 3 Georgia, the running back trio will be essential to the Vol's success. The Vols are averaging 252.5 rushing yards per game and 5.7 yards per carry. Thomas, having transferred from Duke, has not yet played in an SEC game. He is excited for the opportunity, noting the energy of the crowd and stadium and eagerness to contribute. Saturday, the Vols will wear their traditional home look of orange jerseys and white pants for the third consecutive game.

Early Season Statistics

Through the first two games, Thomas has received 12 carries in each contest, accumulating 92 yards against Syracuse and 69 yards with three touchdowns against ETSU. Bishop is averaging 10.7 yards per carry and continues to be a major factor. Lewis has also reached the end zone in both games.