Tennessee freshmen centers Wayne Chism and Duke Crews weren't supposed to be on the court at the same time this season.

But there they were at Wednesday's practice, running side-by-side on the floor in a scrimmage.

UT coach Bruce Pearl said he's considering playing them together as the Vols game with Murray State at 7 p.m. Friday approaches.

The Crews-Chism combo might not happen, but Pearl hasn't won at least 20 games in 13 of his 14 seasons as a head coach by overlooking possibilities.

"Wayne is a really good defensive player who plays smart,'' Pearl said. "Duke, we've got to get him the ball more, just look at his shooting percentage (.490).''

Part of Pearl's move might have to do with Chism's ability to hit the 3-pointer; Chism has hit 8-of-15 3-point attempts the past five games, and he's picked up on his defensive responsibilities at the center position quickly.

"Wayne is getting more comfortable at the five (center), so now me putting him at the four (power forward) may not be as confusing for him,'' Pearl said. "Ryan (Childress) had worked mostly at the four, but today he got some work at the five. Wayne and Ryan are capable of going between the positions because of their inside-out game.''

Childress, like Chism, possesses a soft outside shooting touch.

Pearl originally said he wouldn't play Crews and Chism together because he was worried about them getting into foul trouble and exposing the Vols' lack of frontline depth.

But with the Vols at 5-2 and a challenging schedule ahead, Pearl is searching for solutions.

Marques Challenge: Freshman Marques Johnson came to UT with his sites on starting at point guard, but his role has shifted to watch-and-learn. Johnson hasn't played in the past three games, and he admits that's been difficult for him.

"The last time I didn't play in a game, wow, that would have been seventh grade, when I switched AAU teams and my coach was mad at me when I came back,'' Johnson said. "I have to take this as a learning experience and watch and learn from the other point guards

"I just have to try to be ready when my opportunity comes.''

Pearl said Johnson had a strong Wednesday practice.

"Marques is a quality basketball player,'' Pearl said. "But right now, there's two guys ahead of him. When it's his turn, I'll give him the same confidence and support.''

Johnson said he needs to improve on are getting back in transition defense and improving his dribbling.

"It's a humbling experience,'' Johnson said. "But I believe God puts people in situations for a reason.''