A week after falling to California in their opening game, the Tennessee Vols returned to their winning ways with a dominating 39-19 win over Southern Mississippi.

Sophomore wide receiver Austin Rogers had a big game on offense with seven receptions for 112 yards and a touchdown, all career highs, making him TNJN.com's player of the week.   

"Most of my catches on Saturday were a testament to (quarterback) Erik (Ainge)," Rogers said. "The balls I caught were right there for me; Erik made it easy."

Rogers set the tempo for the offense when he caught his 26-yard touchdown pass in the first quarter to put the Vols up 7-3.

"Austin is a great pick for player of the week," said Tennessee head coach Phil Fulmer. "He had a heck of a ballgame."

Rogers also talked about the pressure of trying to fill the shoes of Robert Meachem and Jayson Swain.

"Big plays are the one thing we need to make happen," said Rogers. "Robert (Meachem) was able to turn a five yard gain into an 80-yard touchdown run. I know I'm the white guy and people think I'm the possession receiver, but I'm confident that I can make those plays as well."

Rogers now leads the team with 13 receptions and ranks second with 150 yards. His touchdown catch against Southern Miss was the first of the season for a Vol wide receiver.

If the Vols game this week in Florida turns into a shoot-out Rogers could once again play a key role, and he is confident in himself and his teammates should the game turn into a high scoring affair.

"We've shown we can make long drives and I'm confident in us making plays down the stretch if it ends up being an offensive rally."