James Pearce Named Co-SEC DPOTW

The biggest development of 2023 for Tennessee has been the sudden emergence of edge rusher James Pearce Jr. On3 considered him a blue-chip talent coming out of high school, but most thought he needed time to develop and grow into his frame. After one season of learning, he's become a full-fledged superstar for this defense.

Pearce leads the team in sacks, boasting six after the Texas A&M game. He disrupts the tempo of the game and makes big plays in crucial spots. Pearce was the best player in the South Carolina and the Texas A&M games and has been playing like a future first-round pick.

Many in the national space are beginning to catch on to Pearce's efforts, and the SEC recognized his efforts on Monday morning. He earned Co-SEC Defensive Player of the Week honors after tallying three tackles and a sack against the Aggies. Pearce is one of the more disruptive players in the conference, as he can get pressure at any moment just of sheer ability and determination. Defensive line coach Rodney Garner has been an integral part of his development, and the Vols got a much-needed leap from an unexpecting young player. His efforts have opened things up for other defenders, and the whole defense is feeding off his energy right now.