For Joe, he’s everybody’s friend so everyone’s just happy to see him again,” stated Halzle. “And then he just kind
Despite being young, the quarterback group for Tennessee football is very talented.
Joey Halzle, a second-year offensive coordinator and fourth-year quarterback coach, is in charge of the group.
He answered inquiries on the position’s status and their current off-season standing.
IN THE ROCKY TOP FORUM, DISCUSS IT
Nico Iamaleava’s current projects
Despite Nico Iamaleava’s impressive performance against Iowa in the Citrus Bowl, he still has opportunity to develop as a player. When Halzle noticed this, he already knew what he wanted to focus on.
His physique and how he positions it during some throws are the first things to consider.
“Physically, we’ve been working a bunch on just refining his body,” stated Halzle. “Putting oneself in excellent postures. Because he is so athletic, we have been very critical of him and hard on ourselves, asking questions like, “Yeah, you can make that throw, but are you in the best position you can get in right now?” because he occasionally gets away with adopting poor body positions. And it has greatly benefited from him gaining weight and strength. He’s been dedicated to that, and he’s performing admirably.”
Additionally, there is a mental component that requires development. Halzle wants to learn more about Iamaleava in order to comprehend why the offense functions the way it does.
“And then on the mental side of it is making the shift from knowing the plays, knowing your protections, to understanding why are we calling these plays in certain situations,” Halzle stated. “What do we hope to achieve by using this formation or motion? Seeing him hone that skill and develop into a quarterback rather than just a gifted young athlete is entertaining.”
Jake Merklinger getting acquainted
Jake Merklinger, a true freshman, and the seasoned Gaston Moore are both behind Iamaleava.
Merklinger, a Georgia native, rates as a four-star. Iamaleava secured the position for the following two years, but that didn’t deter the rookie.
At this time, Halzle is satisfied with what he has observed in Merklinger. He’s adjusting to the environment well and picking up ideas fast.
Halzle described him as a “very athletic guy with very high intelligence.” Guys already adore him. He’s one of those individuals who kind of molds himself into the group. quite soon, which was wonderful to see from us. When it comes to young people, you often assume you know what to expect throughout the recruitment process, but once they’re in the room, you can work with them and watch them excel on the field. He is appropriately calling plays, putting us in the right play, and calling his protections while he is out there. Seeing him do it has been enjoyable. It’s remarkable for such a young man.”
Joe Milton III and Peyton Manning are in town.
There have been two guests in the quarterback room lately.
Initially, Peyton Manning traveled to Knoxville for his class and went by to speak with the quarterback room and squad.
“You get a guy like Peyton Manning to come in and talk to the guys last night and then met with the quarterback separately on his own,” stated Halzle. “Well, there’s not really much more to say about Peyton Manning, is there? When he speaks, people actually pay attention, and he gives guys a ton of solid advice on how to prepare, conduct business, and follow a daily and weekly schedule. Our guys were taking copious notes on all of this information. Thus, I believe it will be quite advantageous for those guys.”
Joe Milton III is also on campus in preparation for Pro Day. On Thursday, he attended practice and assisted in developing the quarterbacks.
“For Joe, he’s everybody’s friend so everyone’s just happy to see him again,” stated Halzle. “And then he just kind of reverts to his previous self with the things he’s bringing.” As an example, he assists in mentoring the young men during one-on-one sessions regarding his footwork.
