Video: Butch Jones' Wednesday press conference

Tennessee head coach Butch Jones gave an injury update, previewed the Vols matchup with the Missouri Tigers on Saturday, and went through the recruiting process and development of offensive lineman Trey Smith.

Jones quickly gave an update on injuries to start the press conference, and not much has changed since Monday. Offensive linemen Drew Richmond and Brett Kendrick, as well as receiver Marquez Callaway remain questionable. Meanwhile starting quarterback Jarrett Guarantano is still listed as probable.

Tennessee has been trying to replicate the high tempo of the Tigers offense in practice according to Jones. “It’s hard to simulate it, but we’ve tried to be creative,” said Jones, who constantly relayed that the Vols would be tested on Saturday. More importantly, Jones called for his secondary to step up in the face of one of the best offenses in the nation and quarterback Drew Lock.

One thing that has remained consistent for Tennessee through the season is offensive lineman Trey Smith, who was moved to left tackle from his normal guard position for last week’s game. Jones said that Smith was one of the Vols leaders and may stay at left tackle depending on the depth of the offensive line going into Saturday. “Trey Smith wanted that challenge of getting Tennessee football back to a high level,” said Jones.

Jones also stated that backup freshman quarterback Will McBride could see some action on the field, regardless of the status of Guarantano’s injury. The status of receiver Jauan Jennings, who was ruled out for the season with a broken wrist earlier in the season, was given by Jones. “He’s back in terms of recovering, his vision of helping the football team is being there physically,” said Jones.

Watch the full video of Jones’ press conference below.

Featured image courtesy of Seth Raborn