Tennessee sophomore James Banks spent most of Saturday’s victory over Fresno State out of position – most third-string quarterbacks would’ve spent their time holding a clipboard.

But Banks isn’t exactly like most third-string quarterbacks. He was running routes as a receiver.

“We’re going to win more games with James on the field as opposed to him standing on the sidelines,” offensive coordinator Randy Sanders said. “He’s so athletic, you just have to have him in the game.”

After filling in for an injured Casey Clausen in 2002, Banks showed flashes of brilliance at the quarterback position, but with little production.

Needing a playmaker at receiver, Vol head coach Phillip Fulmer and Sanders sent Banks on the receiver path – a position he never played in high school.

“I basically just went to Coach Fulmer and Sanders and said I would do whatever was best for the team,” Banks said. “It’s great to be on the field and if I have to run routes to do that, that’s fine with me.”

Both Fulmer and Sanders said they’ve noticed a different Banks from a year ago.

“I could talk about James Banks all day,” Fulmer said. “James has really improved. He’s really worked hard to improve his demeanor and discipline and work ethic.”

It seems the Bulldogs’ defense had as much trouble covering Banks as he has had cementing his position on the field.

The game was ruled by the Volunteer ground game, but it was Banks who owned the first drive. Quarterback Casey Clausen hooked up with Banks three times – one impressive 36-yard reception with one foot inbounds – for 56 yards and a touchdown on the opening drive.

Sanders said the aerial assault of the opening drive allowed the ensuing success of the running game.

“Our passing game really broke open what we were able to do on the ground,” Sanders said. “(Fresno State) didn’t really know what do with James after that first drive, so we kept them guessing.”

The Indianapolis native finished as the game’s leading receiver with seven catches for 80 yards. But according to Fulmer, it wasn’t just Banks’ receptions that helped lead the Vols to their highest rushing total since 2000.

“I was really impressed how he threw his body around blocking Saturday,” Fulmer said. “I was proud of that … He’s focusing on what’s important to the team.”

Sanders said there’s still room for Banks to grow, though. He said Saturday’s success was vital to Banks’ confidence, but his youth showed through on the game film.

“He still has a lot to learn about the position and making sure he runs the correct routes,” Sanders said. “He’s a great athlete, but we have to get him in the right position so he can be a great receiver.”

Banks’ inexperience showed through on Clausen’s first interception against Fresno State. The receiver and quarterback were on different pages leading to the turnover.

With time, Banks said problems like that should disappear.

“It’s just being in the right place at the right time,” Banks said. “You’ve just got to take advantage of opportunities when they come to you and not make opportunities for the other team.”

According to Fulmer, if Banks’ skill as a receiver catches up with his athleticism, those opportunities will come more often.

“He’s special, that’s for sure,” Fulmer said. “If he continues to develop, I will be interested to see what he can do for us.”

If he continues to develop, one thing is virtually assured.

Banks won’t be holding a clipboard anymore.