Junior fullback Ben Bartholomew, younger brother of former Vol fullback Will Bartholomew, saw the first start of his career on Saturday after learning earlier in the week it had become an open competition between him and sophomore Channing Fugate, who started the opener against Montana.
“It was Tuesday practice they put me in with the ones and they told me it would be a competition for the week and we’ll see what happens,” Bartholomew said.
In earning the start, Bartholomew caught a pass for eight yards and helped open holes for running back Tauren Poole,who recorded the seventh 100-yard rushing game of his career.
Bartholomew admitted he was taken aback at being given the starting nod.
“I was a little bit surprised, but I’m just very blessed to get the opportunity,” Bartholomew said. “I think I played well, but I also made a lot of mistakes. I can’t wait to watch film and correct them and get ready for next week.”