Tennessee’s two newest offensive linemen, Wendell Moe and Sam Pendleton, are on a mission to protect quarterback Nico Iamaleava at all costs—and they have their reasons.
Moe, a transfer from Arizona, shares a hometown connection with Iamaleava, both hailing from Long Beach, California. Pendleton, a Notre Dame transfer, brings a personal vendetta against any defender who dares to lay a hand on the Vols’ quarterback.
“I care about my guys. I have a real issue with people touching my quarterback or running back,” Pendleton said. “If you’re in the backfield, you’re my family. If you’re on my line, you’re even more my family. That’s how I play the game. I’m blocking to protect the man beside me and the man behind me. It’s not for personal growth. When you keep people healthy, you win ball games.”
Moe and Pendleton were crucial additions for Tennessee, which must replace four starters on the offensive line. Moe, a three-year starter at guard for Arizona, earned All-Pac-12 honors in 2023. Pendleton started seven games at guard as a redshirt freshman for Notre Dame last season, helping the Fighting Irish reach the College Football Playoff.
“(Moe and Pendleton) are guys who have played football at a high level,” offensive coordinator Joey Halzle said. “You didn’t see them give up pressures. You saw them in the run game being able to physically move people. They’re guys who can step in right from the beginning if they end up on the field, and they’ll look like they’re supposed to be out there on an SEC offensive line.”
During spring practice, both linemen have made strong impressions on Tennessee’s coaches and teammates. Their work ethic, maturity, and determination to keep Iamaleava upright and healthy are already paying dividends as the Vols prepare for a pivotal 2025 season.
Leave a Reply