The tight end position has become increasingly important in modern football, and for the Tennessee Volunteers, the potential return of Miles Kitselman could be a significant factor in shaping the team’s offensive strategy. Kitselman’s presence on the field brings valuable experience and skill to a position that is key in both the passing and running games. As a versatile player, Kitselman’s possible return for another season would provide the Tennessee offense with added depth and playmaking ability, contributing to a balanced and dynamic attack.
The Role of the Tight End in Modern Football
The tight end position has evolved over the years. In the past, tight ends were primarily known for their blocking ability, often serving as extra linemen to assist with the running game. However, with the rise of the spread offense and more sophisticated passing schemes, the role of the tight end has shifted significantly. Tight ends are now expected to be dual-threats—blocking effectively in the run game and serving as pass catchers capable of stretching the field.
For teams like Tennessee, who rely on a balanced offense to move the ball effectively, having a reliable tight end is essential. Tight ends can be used to create mismatches against linebackers or safeties, particularly when they possess the ability to run crisp routes and create separation in the passing game. Moreover, a versatile tight end can add an element of unpredictability to an offense, making it harder for defenses to anticipate whether the play will be a run, short pass, or deep shot downfield.
Miles Kitselman: A Brief Overview
Miles Kitselman, a tight end for the Tennessee Volunteers, has been a consistent contributor for the team. Standing at 6’6” and weighing around 250 pounds, Kitselman is an imposing figure on the field. His combination of size, athleticism, and football IQ makes him a valuable asset to any offense. Kitselman has shown his ability to both block effectively in the run game and create separation as a pass catcher.
While he may not be as explosive as some of the more high-profile tight ends in college football, Kitselman’s steady presence has been crucial in helping Tennessee run its offense. His ability to contribute in multiple areas allows the coaching staff to get creative with offensive schemes, utilizing him as both a traditional tight end and in more unconventional roles, depending on the situation.
The Impact of Kitselman’s Return
If Miles Kitselman decides to return for another season at Tennessee, his impact could be felt in a variety of ways. The Volunteers are coming off a strong season where they were one of the top teams in the SEC, and maintaining that success will require a combination of experienced players and fresh talent. Kitselman’s return would provide the team with a reliable target in the passing game and a strong blocker in the run game, allowing the offense to maintain its balance and adaptability.
- Blocking in the Run Game: Kitselman’s size and strength make him a solid asset in the run game. Whether lined up on the line of scrimmage or as an H-back, his blocking ability can help create holes for running backs. His experience in this area allows him to assist the offensive line in securing key blocks, contributing to the success of Tennessee’s running attack.
The Volunteers’ ability to control the line of scrimmage and establish a strong running game is key to their offensive philosophy. Kitselman’s return would allow the team to maintain that balance, ensuring that the offense is not one-dimensional and keeping defenses on their toes.
- Pass-Catching Threat: Although blocking is an essential part of a tight end’s role, the modern tight end’s ability to make plays in the passing game is often what separates good teams from great ones. Kitselman’s size and ability to run routes effectively make him a legitimate threat as a pass catcher. He has shown the ability to create mismatches against smaller defenders, and his height gives him an advantage when going up for contested catches.
If Tennessee’s offense looks to continue its aggressive aerial attack, Kitselman’s return would provide quarterback Joe Milton with another reliable option. Tight ends are often used as safety valves in passing schemes, able to make crucial catches on third downs or in the red zone. Kitselman’s presence on the field would force opposing defenses to respect him, opening up more opportunities for other receivers and running backs to make plays.
- Leadership and Experience: One of the most valuable contributions that Kitselman brings to the table is his leadership and experience. As a player who has been with the team for multiple seasons, he understands the intricacies of Tennessee’s offense and the expectations of the coaching staff. His familiarity with the playbook and his ability to mentor younger players is invaluable to the development of the team.
The Tennessee football program is at a pivotal moment. With a mixture of experienced players and rising stars, the Volunteers are looking to establish themselves as consistent contenders in the SEC and beyond. Kitselman’s leadership on and off the field could be crucial in helping to guide the team through the ups and downs of a tough schedule.
- Versatility in Offensive Schemes: Kitselman’s ability to play multiple roles within the offense allows the coaching staff to be more creative in their approach. Whether it’s using him as a traditional tight end, as a split-out receiver, or even in motion to create mismatches, his versatility can make Tennessee’s offense more difficult to predict. The team can utilize him in a variety of ways, allowing them to be more dynamic and difficult for defenses to game-plan against.
How Kitselman Fits into Tennessee’s Offensive Philosophy
Tennessee’s offensive philosophy under head coach Josh Heupel is predicated on speed, tempo, and explosiveness. The offense often operates at a rapid pace, putting pressure on opposing defenses to stay on their toes. The Vols rely on both the passing and running game to keep the defense off balance, and the tight end position plays a critical role in making this balanced approach work.
With Heupel’s system, tight ends are often used in multiple ways. They may line up as a traditional tight end to block for the run, or they may line up in the slot to take advantage of mismatches against smaller defenders. Kitselman’s return would allow the Vols to continue utilizing the tight end position in these varied ways, maximizing its effectiveness in the scheme.
Kitselman’s ability to be a strong blocker in the run game, a reliable pass catcher in the short-to-intermediate range, and a red zone threat makes him a valuable piece in Heupel’s high-speed offense. His return would add a layer of versatility to an already explosive offense, enabling the team to continue implementing multiple offensive strategies that keep defenses guessing.
Potential Competition and Depth at Tight End
Although Kitselman is a talented player, Tennessee’s tight end room will likely have strong competition for playing time. The team has recruited highly regarded players at the position, and younger players are always looking to prove themselves. This competition can only benefit the team, as it creates depth and drives players to perform at their best.
However, Kitselman’s experience and proven track record give him a distinct advantage. Even with emerging talents pushing for snaps, his leadership, blocking skills, and ability to contribute in the passing game could keep him firmly entrenched in the starting role. His familiarity with the system and his established chemistry with the quarterbacks will likely ensure that he remains an important part of the offense, even as other players continue to develop.
