Tennessee chooses its quarterback.

Just as a refresher, here are the passer ratings for the three kids that took snaps last season for the Vols and were in the running for the starting position in 2014:

• Justin Worley – 117.39
• Josh Dobbs – 103.28
• Nathan Peterman – 42.53

So, in fairness to Butch Jones, it’s not like he had a lot of attractive options picking this year’s starter.  Worley, it was announced yesterday, retained that position.  And of course they’re gonna say stuff like this:

“We challenged them about a week and a half ago across the board to play with more consistency, and since then they’ve all stepped up their level of play,” Bajakian said. “At this point, Justin is playing the best football he’s played since we’ve been here. He’s earned the job, and obviously they compete on a daily basis and will continue to do so.”

Bajakian said Worley is “hitting on all cylinders right now,” and QB1 said he goes into this season feeling “completely different” than he did this time a year ago.

“His timing and rhythm’s outstanding right now,” Bajakian said. “His anticipation, he’s throwing guys open. His ball location and accuracy is on point. The combination of all that is important in this offense.

“On top of that, and this is something that he’s really challenged himself with, he has stepped up as a leader since the end of last season. He’s made his presence felt, and I think his teammates look at him as a leader.”

That’s quite a different tune than the one Bajakian was singing less than a week ago.  Worley must’ve had a helluva week since.

Jones has recruited well, but between this, completely green lines and the schedule, I’m having a really hard time seeing how UT claws its way to bowl eligibility this season.