Big Loss for the Vols

The Vol faithful found out today that the basketball team lost Jordan Howell for 6-8 weeks with a broken right hand. Many are already aware that Howell suffered a broken right hand in the preseason, and thus missed much of the practice and the first few games while trying to get himself back into playing shape and working his way back into the rotation. It wasn't until the Louisiana-Lafayette game that Howell was able to work himself back into the starting lineup, allowing Ramar Smith to come off the bench. This move by Pearl seemed to be a great move. Howell started the game and was able to give quality minutes and allow Ramar to get himself into the game while on the bench. Ramar was then able to come into the game, and after watching how the other team was playing, provide quality minutes. Smith seemed to settle down into his role and started playing within the system. This move has helped lead the Vols to five straight wins, three of which were against NCAA tournament teams, and two of those ranked in the Top 20 in the country. Well, with Howell out til probably March, we will now see what Pearl has in mind now?

Will Pearl pull Marques Johnson back of the bench and position him as the back up point guard? Has Johnson been able to improve since being placed on the bench, or will he still struggle on defense as he did at the beginning of the season?

Or will Pearl move Tabb to point guard, where many have suggested he might be good at, and move either Johnson or Passley to back up the 3?

Personally, I think Johnson will move to the backup PG role. But don't be surprised if when Johnson is out on the floor, that Dane Bradshaw is as well. Dane might take on more of a point guard role with the loss of Howell. Many suggested this early in the season when Ramar was struggling. This might be a good opportunity for that to work. Also, if Johnson is playing PG, don't be surprised if he is put on the SF on defense, and allow Tabb or JaJuan Smith to play defense on the PG. Lastly, Pearl has an ability to get the best out of his players when they are pushed into a corner. I thought that Pearl would personally push Crews and Chism after the Western Kentucky game, since they played so poorly, and they played superbly in the Oklahoma State game. I wouldn't be surprised to see the same here.