TAMPA, Fla. — Tennessee wide receiver Bret Smith practiced Wednesday and is eligible to play in the Outback Bowl against Penn State on New Year’s Day.

Smith did not arrive here until late Tuesday, missing practice and a welcome dinner for the two teams.

The senior was in full pads and took part in the Vols’ workout Wednesday afternoon at the University of South Florida.

"Got his grades worked out," UT coach Phillip Fulmer said.

Fulmer said Tuesday that Smith was appealing a D in a major course when he needed to make a C or better to stay eligible.

On top of that, Smith was bumped from his flight Monday after trying to redeem frequent flyer miles.

Smith is UT’s third-leading receiver, catching 39 passes for 453 yards and five touchdowns.

Only starters Jayson Swain and Robert Meachem had better numbers.

Fulmer said Smith’s slot receiver position is an important one to the Vols’ passing game.

"An inside receiver is really important to our offense," Fulmer said. "He gets a lot of drag routes, corner routes, vertical routes down the middle. It’s an important position.

"We’re looking forward to him being back and being productive for us."

Drew Edwards covers University of Tennessee football. He may be reached at 865-342-6274.