Tennessee wide receivers use eye patches to sharpen focus for 2026 season

Tennessee wide receivers coach Kelsey Pope implemented an unconventional training regimen during the offseason, having players wear eye patches while catching approximately 1,000 footballs. The goal of the drill was to trigger specific brain segments and improve focus, ultimately reducing dropped passes. Wide receiver Mike Matthews credited this work for his performance in Tennessee's 56-9 win over Furman, where he recorded a career-high 132 receiving yards and two touchdown catches. Quarterback Faizon Brandon finished his debut with 226 passing yards and three touchdowns, utilizing a wide receiver rotation that remains in flux. While Matthews and Braylon Staley hold primary roles, sophomore Radarious Jackson, Travis Smith, and TK Keys continue to compete for the third starting spot. No. 18 Tennessee now shifts its preparation toward a September 12 road game against Georgia Tech at Bobby Dodd Stadium.

• 4:25 PMYahoo Sports — How eye patches helped Mike Matthews catch two TD passes for Tennessee football