Vols Derek Barnett Not Playing Like a Freshman in Defensive Trenches

   Reporter-"Derek, you have more sacks as a true freshman than Jadeveon Clowney had as a true freshman. That’s pretty good company isn’t it?"

"Yeah. That’s pretty cool I think. I just play football. I have fun. I don’t get caught up in the stats and stuff."

   Reporter-"Derek, you surpassed Clowney in sack numbers from his freshman year today. What does that mean to you."

"It was just. Football is fun. I don’t really compare myself to anybody else. I just like playing this game and trying to help us win. We’re trying to go for the next win next week. Trying to go to a bowl game. That’s what I’m focusing on."

   Reporter-"Curt, did you imagine when you saw Derek come in as a freshman. Did you kind of see things with the year he’s having coming?"

Said linebacker Curt Maggitt,"I knew we had some freshmen that’s going to make an impact, but honestly, i don’t think anyone could foresee the production he has been playing with. But like you said, he’s getting better game after game, and he’s consistent. I respect him, and i like playing with him. I couldn’t tell you I saw it coming. I’d be lying."
 This season, Barnett has set the UT freshman for sacks with nine and the freshman record for tackles for a loss with 18. He also set the UT freshman record for the most sacks in a game with three against Ole Miss.

   Reporter-"Can you describe what it’s like to watch Derek Barnett continue to improve week in and week out."

Said head coach Butch Jones,"Well, it’s a great illustration for players in this state, you need to stay at home. Derek Barnett is one of those individuals from Brentwood Academy. Again, high, high character. Can’t say enough about him. Not only what he brings on the field, but also in the locker room as well. Again, I can’t say enough about Derek Barnett. I know it has been overstated, but what he’s doing as a true freshman is remarkable."