I didn't VOLUNTEER for this! (UT legacy)

[olympia]

Taking over as head coach for the University of Tennessee, I'm looking at an up-hill battle to restore this once great program to his original glory. The team looks a lot like the current version - several good players on the starting line-up but not a lot of depth. Recruiting will be important as quite a few Freshmen can expect to start or get valuable playing time. We need to upgrade the talent in a big way.

I had played thru the first couple seasons, but then lost season 2 somehow (after a miracle bowl game win and a top 25 ranking). When I went back to replay after the mess-up, we had a better record but ended up not being ranked. I'll post some summaries to catch up to where I am currently.

[olympia]

the first season, I didn't keep very much in the way of stats and results. I honestly didn't expect to continue on. The Vols have fallen on hard times and are picked to finish 8th in the SEC.

Short version is - UT finishes 8-4
losses to Auburn, Georgia, Florida, and then upset by Arkansas.
Auburn has one of the best defenses in the world, and it was a close, tough, fought in the mud, kind of game. We just wore down as it went on.
UGA and Florida are the pride of the SEC East and whipped us. Arkansas was just a poor game. But 8-4 puts us 3rd in the SEC East....not bad for a team picked to finish 8th.
we got a bowl invite to Dallas to play Texas Tech in the Cotton Bowl.
Vols turn up the defensive pressure and come away with a big win to close out the first year.

Recruiting wise - we need upgrades at just about every position and have lots of holes to fill. we end up with a #16 class (eight 4-stars, and six 3-stars). We signed two Juco players (De and Fb) to help with immediate needs at those positions. We signed only one guy who was listed on the ESPN 150 (ILB Woodall). He'll be a good player to build our defense around. Also added two offensive linemen who could very well start next year (and two others for depth). Plus a QB who will compete for the starting position with the senior (back-up from last year) and R/S freshman on the team. TE Miller will see back up The All-American Ed Fargas
On defense, SS Thomas will see a lot of playing time. Rice is expected to start at DE.
Though most of the players come from the Southeast, we did try to recruit nationally (as Tennessee does for real) and landed WR Gold from Ohio -- I'd like to build a pipeline to that talent rich state.

DT Greg Krager, 4-stars
Kentucky Country Day (Louisville, KY)
National Rank: 362, Regional: 88, Position: 31

ILB Dave Woodall, 4-stars
Seymour (Seymour, TN)
National Rank: 85, Regional: 23, Position: 2 (grades 2.5 of 5)

RB Bill Miller, 4-stars
Mountain View (Mountain View, AR)
National Rank: 156, Regional: 42, Position: 20 (grades 2.5 of 4.5)

OG Eagle Madise, 4-stars
Milton (Alpharetta, GA)
National Rank: 273, Regional: 74, Position: 9

OT James Rutledge, 4-stars
Valdosta (Valdosta, GA)
National Rank: 247, Regional: 68, Position: 23

SS Bryan Thomas, 4-stars
South Jones (Ellisville, MS)
National Rank: 252, Regional: 70, Position: 15

TE Lamar Miller, 4-stars
Starkville (Starkville, MS)
National Rank: 287, Regional: 77, Position: 12

QB Claude Sauter, 4-stars
Starr's Mill (Fayetteville, GA)
National Rank: 278, Regional: 75, Position: 26 (grades 2 of 4)

C Brandon Parker, 3-stars
Ely (Pompano Beach, FL)
National Rank: 405, Regional: 99, Position: 9

DE Vilnis Rice, 3-stars
East Mississippi CC (MS), Huntingdon, TN, HS - TN
National Rank: 558, Regional: 141, Position: 31 (grades 3 of 3.5)

WR David Gold, 3-stars
Milford (Milford, OH)
National Rank: 316, Regional: 68, Position: 40 grades 1.5 out of 4

FB Harry Thomas, 3-stars
Mississippi Gulf Coast CC (MS), Monroe, LA, HS - LA
National Rank: 525, Regional: 132, Position: 15 (grades 3 of 3.5)

DE Gary Machado, 3-stars
Briarcrest Christian (Eads, TN)
National Rank: 699, Regional: 172, Position: 38

OG Chris Rentzel, 3-stars
Clinch County (Homerville, GA)
National Rank: 651, Regional: 162, Position: 36

Granted this one recruiting class is not going to be enough to bring the Vols back to glory, but it is a good step in the right direction. It's not all about the number of "stars" they get....it's about well they develop and how well they fit into our system. Each one of these guys have the skills necessary to play for us next year. However, Rentzel and Machado will likely redshirt at this time so they can improve.

state by state:
We sign 3 home-state TN boys. 4 from GA. 2 from MS
1 each from Florida, Arkansas, LA, Kentucky, and Ohio

[olympia]

Season 2

Looking at things, it looks a lot like Tennessee next year for real:
a young offensive line. A Sr QB who hasn't shown much (Moran), a Redshirt (Little - who I will compare to UT's incoming Juco), and a hightly touted Freshman QB (Charles Sauter) who many think could win the battle for the starting job. Add to that a very good defense and a couple super running backs and a pretty good receiving corps. The irony is uncanny.

The AD did not give us a very tough schedule as it turns out. Wake Forest will finish last in the ACC, South Florida will finish last in the Big East. We also have Big East leading Syracuse for the last game of the season and they are the only non-conference game that looks like it could be a good one.

As the season goes on, I hope things go better health wise for the real Vols. With the young inexperienced line, all 3 QB's suffer injuries at one time or another. Sauter had won the starting spot and was doing well until he was hammered in the Auburn game (once again the War Eagles defense totally stifled us for our first loss of the year). After the Auburn game, the Vols drop another to Mississippi.

Things turned around when we pulled the upset of Georgia. Next week, we have the Florida Gators at home. They have one conference loss so a win puts us in a tie for the SEC East (and we'd have the tiebreaker). I'll pick up the season with highlights from that game - up next

[olympia]

Game highlights
week 9, home game vs Florida. We control the first quarter (12 minutes) and open a 10-0 lead. We swap FG's in the second before Florida gets off an 87 yard run - halftime score 13-10.
UT gets a FG in the 3rd and opens 4th with another (19-10). Florida misses a 3 yarder, but connects from 35 (19-13)
That's where the game ends as the Vol defense bent a little but did not allow Florida to get back past the 50. Our anemic offense ran just enough clock off to ice the game. I kept thinking the Gators high powered offense would be able to get off one big play to win the game, but the Defense came thru in the clutch!

Key Stats: We ran 53 carries for 178 yards (Johnson 27 for 84 yards) as Gators stacked the line and dared my freshman QB Little to beat them in the air. He had just enough success (13/19 for 122 yds and 1 TD) to keep a few drives alive.
we recovered 2 fumbles and 2 ints - no turnovers for the Vols. However 9 penalities for 79 yards hurt us in key moments. We won time of possion 37 to 23 - which I'm surprised we didn't wear them down to where we could run better
Big win for the Vols!

then the ugly: against 0-10 Wake Forest who ranks in the bottom 100 in every category, the Vols had no concentration. The O line missed 10 blocks, had their usual 5 false starts and 3 holds. The line allows 2 sacks, one cost us a Safety, Meanwhile the offense sputters. It's a sad day when the Fullback outrushes the star RB, but Thomas came up big, with over 100 yards rushing and we needed everyone of them!

Starter QB Little is a miserable 4 of 13 passing and blows out his knee, he'll be out of action again, this time for a month. Moran is adequate, and Sauter comes off the bench trying to play thru a torn tendon is his elbow. He connects on a pair of passes to spark the team a bit.
We score a meaningless TD as time expires to win 26-2. 4 FG's (40-46 yards) as we stalled most drives when we got to the 20 - usually penalties and stops in the backfield.

Defensively, no real complaints. Held them scoreless (not their fault on the safety). Kept the Demon Deacs to only 70 yards rushing (below our 101 ypg avg) and 170 passing (below the 200 ypg avg) so the defensive stats will improve in both areas.
No one was out of position and only a couple missed tackles. Reed returns from his injury to record 9 tackles at OLB. Coleman also returns to the line-up with 3 big sacks (gives him 12 on the year).

injuries have just decimated this team. We go into the last game against #23 Syracuse with 2 QB's sidelined, as well as the back-up TE, 3 offensive linemen (one with spinal trauma and our Monster guard Cappeletti who had 13 pancakes) and starting CB!
of 14 recruits, 9 have been forced into starting at one point or another this year (2 redshirted). Others are getting some extra playing time with the injuries.

In other news, Ed Fargas, our all-star Soph TE, is 6th in the Strong hands trophy race - despite sitting out 6 games due to his poor grades. We are glad to get him back in line-up (just in time for reserve to be injured, otherwise we'd be playing walk-ons like the basketball team....maybe not so bad after watching them against #1 Kansas over the weekend).

Florida and Georgia both imploded losing 2 more games each. That leaves UT all alone atop the SEC East. We have a tough non-conference game against #23 Syracuse as a tune-up for the Championship game against a top 10 LSU team. Highlights from those games will be next.

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Final game of the regular season - two teams fighting for that top 25 ranking:
The Tennessee Volunteers (27th) host #23 Syracuse

simmed the game against Syracuse - how badly we got outplayed everywhere but the scoreboard. Syracuse out rushes 174-157 (so much for stiff defense). Out-passed 305-222 (total 479-379)
Defense bent with yardage, but held the Orange to FG's in the first qtr, then our offense had a spurt and we got to half LEADING 17-6
Syracuse marches downfield to open the 3rd qtr, but settle for another FG (17-9); Vols answer with a 46 yard strike from Moran to speedster Charles Hunter (24-9)
In the 4th, Syracuse once again drove deep and threatened to score their first TD which would make it a one score game - but LB Roche intercepts and races the distance - 97 yards for a TD. (31-9 with time running out, the defense relaxed a bit allowing Syracuse to get across the goal and add a 2 pt conversion. Final Score 31-17 - almost a miracle win for TN
Star of the game: QB Moran ended up the game 16 of 26 for 222 yards. Walk-on Chris Brown was forced into action due to injuries and he whiffed on 4 attempts. Their QB completed 25 of 38, but had 3 picked off.
After his 100 yard performance last week, Thomas only had one rush for 5 yards (CPU doesn't change game plans midstream like I did). Johnson gets 80 yards on 15 carries
Freshman guard Madise shows future promise with 3 pancake blocks. 4 others had 1 each. Freshman SS Thomas had 9 tackles. Freshman MLB Woodall had 7 (and an INT).
we finish 1st in SEC east and face LSU in championship game (but still not ranked in coaches' poll -- game does not give the same love to SEC as real life)
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SEC CHAMPIONSHIP GAME FROM THE GEORGIA DOME IN ATLANTA
#23 UT vs #7 LSU
the win over Syracuse gets us ranked 23 in media and #26 in coach's poll. LSU is ranked #7 and comes in as 14 pt favorites. They have a top 20 offense and defense which could make things tough for us to move the ball.
That was being generous as LSU blows us out 48-19, outgaining us 600 yds to 319. We were sacked 4 times and never got to their QB
our great rush defense allowed 259 yards (and we only got 90). Honestly, the only reason we made it this far was that Florida and Georgia both fell apart down the stretch - they were much better teams.

But we'll talke the experience, lick our wounds and wait for a bowl game - we're going to Orlando to face #10 Purdue - it's a couple weeks away so it should give time for a few injuries to heal up. Purdue has the 7th best offense in the land so we'll need all defensive hands on deck for the game.

Happy days as 5 walking wounded come off the DL and have a week to practice with the team as we prepare for one of the toughest challenges of the year

Awards:
DT Jack Coleman is first team all-american!!!
FB Thomas gets 3rd team all-american honors, as does TE Fargas
Don't guess there's an All-freshman team. Sure we'd have a few contenders.

All SEC: Fargas (TE) first team, Thomas (FB) and Lockett (K) 2nd team. Cappelletti (OG) 3rd team
Defense: Coleman (DT) and Dyer (P) first team.
Pat Glover (SS) 2nd team. Rich Bacon (FS) 3rd team with 6 INT.

QB from Texas: Cheek wins POY - 3500 yards and 34 TD's

The Bowl Game with Purdue is next. Let's hope it is a game worth watching - with time to heal up, scout and prepare, it should be.

[olympia]

Orlando Bowl - UT vs #10 Purdue

the Bowl game was a classic. UT played their hearts out scoring the first 14 pts of the game!! Then Purdue took over and ran all over the defense for a score, and passed all over the defense for another score to tie the game. Purdue ran a punt 68 yards for a score and takes the lead. I was furious. The one facet of the game we supposedly had a slight advantage in and they are beating us there too. Our offense goes nowhere and punts again. Defense holds and they punt. Bacon takes the ball at the 10 and races 90 yards to tie the game. Halftime was a 21-21 tie.

Things slowed down a little in the 2nd half as Purdue seemed content to pound our defenders into the ground.
They get the go ahead score on a 5 yard pass. Our offense sputters the entire quarter and at this point, I'm hoping we can keep it respectable - though I'd never tell the players that.

To start the 4th qtr, we drive into Purdue territory but the drive stalls on penalties. Lockett nails a 49 yd FG. Defenses ruled the 2nd half score-wise, but Purdue answers our FG with only 15 ticks left on the clock.
Trailing by 7, I had Sauter throw the hail mary - and holy cow - Sickles runs under it and races to the end zone to tie the game!! (with the extra point).
I really debated going for 2 - but we tie on the kick. Our team was exhausted and totally spent - momentum alone was not enough as Purdue marches for the score in OT - then stop us on 4 tries.
38-31 final.

Post Game analysis
We cover the spread, but moral victories will not set well back home…especially allowing 200 yards on the ground and only rushing for 99 ourselves. Passing wise we out gained them 233-228. We were only able to return one punt all game, and we took it to the barn. 6 penalties is better than most games, but still something to work on.
I threw every RB we had at them, but they kept shutting them down. Hard to depend on a Frosh QB coming back from an injury to carry us but I think he did an admirable job with 3 TD passes. For his efforts, he was named Player of the Game in a losing effort.
Our best receiver (Sickles) let 4 passes get away from him - but he made the big catch late to tie the game. They dominated the line of scrimmage - we had 2 pancakes while they had 7. They had 10 stuffs, we had 4. We did have 3 sacks though - 2 by Redshirt freshman DE Skip Blair and one by Chimura. They held the sack twins of Coleman and Lewis at bay (Coleman had 4 tackles and a hurry, Lewis was a non-factor). Film showed our OL had 10 missed blocking assignments. Our defensive backs were out of position 10 times. Bottom Line: that adds up to a 7 point OT loss.

Oklahoma beat Florida 40-14 in the Cotton Bowl, so we should not hang our heads after the game we played.
other bowls of interest: SUGAR BOWL: LSU 52 - Nebraska 14; Rose bowl: Pittsburg stuns USC 34-31, ORANGE BOWL: Texas beat Michigan 30-27\
Virgina Tech wins the national title 41-36 over Ohio State

Final top 10: Vtech, Pitt, Texas, LSU, Ohio State, Michgan, Miami, Purdue, Nebraska, Alabama
My Vols drop to #33. for some reason we just did not get a lot of respect all year. With a 10-4 record, I think we deserved a top 25 ranking - even if we had a lot of close game and won ugly sometimes
Auburn and Alabama are in top 15 both polls with 9-3 record.

we get a B- rating from the Board. C on expectations which I don't get since they picked us 7th in the SEC (unless its since we were not ranked - and not sure what to do about that)
they take $15,000 away from my budget leaving me with $2,230,000. Fargas (TE) is the only player publically putting on feelers on going Pro. As good as he is, he's not much help in study hall while we're playing games. I'll be looking for a replacement either way,

Illinois, Indiana, South Florida, Central Michigan, and New Mexico State inquire on my services. Of course I'm staying (though NMSU is interesting since that is the team I've always used to start the PS video games - loved the challenge of building them up from the WAC cellar to a national power) -

I hold a press conference to let everyone know that unlike Lane K, I will not be leaving unfinished business and bolting to another team anytime soon. This rebuilding process has only started and won't end until glory days return to Rocky Top. Tennessee is a dream job for any coach


ST Coach Keith Larson opted out of his contract to explore better paying offers.
That's fine because I hired Doug Pitt and upgraded our DC to Kwame Koman of Houston. Kwame is more in tune with scouting and developing, plus he's just as good at developing game plans. I expect big things from his tenacious D next season. Now let's get to work on recruiting some more talent to the VOLS

[olympia]

As I begin recruiting, I find out that two players will be transferring:

WR Gold and DT Krager both transfer (Memphis and Indy respectively). I liked Krager, but he was in my doghouse for grades at the end of the year. Gold just was never able to crack into the line-up
This leaves me with no one in reserve at DT and a little weak in reserve at WR too. But we are not going to tolerate laziness in the classroom.
Both those areas will be a focus in this year's recruiting. We also need a punter. Other areas - we need to shore up the Linebacker position and add depth to our DB's (especially CB where we graduated 2 and are left with a pair of upcoming Sr's)


While I put together the Recruiting Class, if anyone has suggestions or other things they'd like to see in the write-ups let me know (PM or Post)

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I spent some time scouting and comparing skills to my needs (not just getting the highest rated player on the board). As a result, several 3 star pick-ups end up being graded as 4 stars in the final rating - and one 4-star is upgraded to a 5-star.

CB Robb Dodrill, 5-stars
Cypress Creek (Orlando, FL)
National Rank: 86, Regional: 28, Position: 10

ILB E.J. Jackson, 4-stars
South Panola (Batesville, MS)
National Rank: 380, Regional: 102, Position: 25

FS Keith Ford, 4-stars
Tavares (Tavares, FL)
National Rank: 267, Regional: 66, Position: 19

RB Hannibal Semple, 4-stars
Butler (Augusta, GA)
National Rank: 139, Regional: 38, Position: 14
(will be converted to a WR. He has 90 rated speed!!!!!

RB Juqua Barry, 4-stars
Everglades (Miramar, FL)
National Rank: 239, Regional: 60, Position: 24

WR Tai Youngblood, 4-stars
Southwest Mississippi CC (MS), Springfield, FL, HS - FL
National Rank: 215, Regional: 56, Position: 24

ILB Neill Tinoisamoa, 4-stars
Screven County (Sylvania, GA)
National Rank: 541, Regional: 136, Position: 33

DT Chris Rodgers, 4-stars
Hollywood Hills (Hollywood, FL)
National Rank: 425, Regional: 113, Position: 26
will be converted to DE

DT Robert Burke, 4-stars
Belleview (Belleview, FL)
National Rank: 415, Regional: 109, Position: 24

SS Chris Johnson, 4-stars
Brookwood (Snellville, GA)
National Rank: 144, Regional: 39, Position: 14

OT Jerald Sweeney, 3-stars
Bremen (Bremen, GA)
National Rank: 612, Regional: 165, Position: 29

CB Ken Jennings, 3-stars
Russellville*** (Russellville, KY)
National Rank: 580, Regional: 153, Position: 64

P Mack Anderson, 3-stars
Royal Palm Beach (Royal Palm Beach, FL)
National Rank: 963, Regional: 262, Position: 13

FB Michael George, 3-stars
Rutherford (Springfield, FL)
National Rank: 561, Regional: 142, Position: 18

WR Butch Browning, 3-stars
Crim (Atlanta, GA)
National Rank: 476, Regional: 122, Position: 61

DT Chris Hamlin, 3-stars
Tioga (Tioga, LA)
National Rank: 399, Regional: 106, Position: 23

QB Walter Holmes, 3-stars
Whitwell (Whitwell, TN)
National Rank: 369, Regional: 98, Position: 25

ILB Sammy Ross, 3-stars
Chapel Hill (Douglasville, GA)
National Rank: 299, Regional: 74, Position: 19
will be converted to OLB - a postion we struggle recruiting too

K Todd Carter, 3-stars
Dobyns Bennett (Kingsport, TN)
National Rank: 807, Regional: 222, Position: 15

C Gary Mehl, 3-stars
Hampton (Hampton, TN)
National Rank: 864, Regional: 232, Position: 35

overall, this class in ranked #2 in the nation!!


Top 10 recruiting classes: GA tech, UT, Purdue, Texas Tech, Minnesota, UGA, Clemson, Oregon State, Florida State, Michigan

GA TECH has 7 5-star potential signees, several of those already 3-4 currently. They should be a force in the next couple years playing in the ACC

UGA 6th, Florida 11th, Alabama 15th are other top SEC recruiting classes

by loading up at ILB and DT, we are able to move a couple of them to other positions (OLB and DE) to shore up those positions. Putting Semple at WR from RB actually boosted his ratings! I'm looking for big things from him as he learns his new position. He and Youngblood will both likely start this year for me. Dodril should win a starting spot at CB as well. I am going to redshirt several of these guys - hope they understand and stick around. For example, will be hard for Barry to see much playing this year behind All-star Bob Johnson at RB. But next year, he should be the starter.

3 ESPN Top 150 players, but several good quality and smart football players. Expect several to contribute right away while others will give much needed depth and hope to develop over the next couple years. Solid class which gives us a solid foundation to build on for years to come.

This year raided our neighbors - getting 8 players from Florida and 6 from GA. 1 each from LA, MS, and KY. 3 local TN players
5-star: 1
4-star: 9
3-star: 10
each of my 3-stars come in with 4-4.5 potential and some improved to 2.5 after spring training. So our scouting and evaluation looks to have paid off. We'll see how well these diamonds in the rough develop and contribute.

[BHK1978]

While I put together the Recruiting Class, if anyone has suggestions or other things they'd like to see in the write-ups let me know (PM or Post)

Hire Dick Murdoch and JYD!:D Seriously I just wanted to come in here and say that I am enjoying this diary so far. So keep up the good work!

Actually I do have a guestion:

RB Hannibal Semple, 4-stars
Butler (Augusta, GA)
National Rank: 139, Regional: 38, Position: 14
(will be converted to a WR. He has 90 rated speed!!!!!


I do not own the game so I was wondering does the game have stats for hands? What I mean is, do you know how good of a WR he will end up becoming? And is it that easy to convert a RB into a WR.

[olympia]

Hire Dick Murdoch and JYD!:D Seriously I just wanted to come in here and say that I am enjoying this diary so far. So keep up the good work!

Actually I do have a guestion:

I do not own the game so I was wondering does the game have stats for hands? What I mean is, do you know how good of a WR he will end up becoming? And is it that easy to convert a RB into a WR.

haha, wish I could bring them in. Glad you're enjoying my side hobby.
internet has been out here all week, thus the slow reply.

yes, the game rates for Hands and also route running. Semple's hands are almost as good as my other WR's, but his route running leaves a little to be desired (56 compared to 69 for my best WR in that stat. Not sure how that actually compares yet. His scouting report says that "when he reaches the top of his game that he will not drop many passes. he has discipline and body control to develop good route running skills. There will come a day when his speed puts him in an elite class of receivers. While his main job is to catch the ball, he will surprise people with electrifying runs"
I think he can be a game breaker

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2008 - New season starts:

Wake Forest vs UT
Deacons jump on the Vols who have first game jitters. 75 yrd pass play, then another drive capped by a 5 yard run gives them 14-0 lead. Vols replace Sauter with Little at QB - Rob promptly finds super frosh Tai Youngblood for the 65 yard bomb to close out the quarter and breathe a little life into UT. Defense wakes up too, while Little leads 2 more scoring drives to take HT lead of 21-17. Little finds Charles Hunter for a 73 yrd bomb and Vols go on to rout Wake 42-17 (3 rushing, 3 passing TDs). The new freshmen defensive backs Johnson and Dodril did ok once they settled down (10 tackles between them)> Woodall 7 tackles to lead team, also sack, fumble, and recovery.

The Vols pack their bags for an extended road trip - games at Air Force, Arizonia State and SEC West foe Mississippi State. We might find out what this team is made of in the next 3 weeks.

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Killer road trip begins - some hightlights:

UT at Air Force
UT travels to Air Force. AF kicks 5 FG's, and we get a lucky run by the FB to win 24-15

UT at Arizonia State
UT travels to Arizona State. Sun Devils moved the ball and controlled the clock, but RB Bob Johnson put the team on his shoulders: 247 yards and 3 TD's while passing game struggled. Defense stepped up and shut out ASU in the 2nd half as Vols win 23-15 in a dramatic road comeback victory.

UT at Mississippi State
SEC schedule begins in dramatic fashion - against #23 Mississippi State - it was an old-fashioned Southern knockdown drag out affair. Neither team could deliver a knockout punch and defenses were stingy (less than 300 yards total offense for each team. UT ran a little better, Miss State passed better against our #10 pass defense in the land). State takes the lead on a 36 yard pass midway thru 4th qtr. Vols answer with a strike from Little to Schoebel to put us ahead for good. Schoebel receives player of the game honors (6 catches for 108 yards) and may have played his way back into the starting line-up for good. Woodall 11 tackles and a sack was the leader of a tough defense. If the Vols could just land on a QB instead of the revolving door, they could be a force this year. The good thing is usually one of the QB's will be on even if the other is having a bad day (more often, one does well first half then falters). Johnson 82 tough rushing yards and a TD helped run out the clock at the end to seal the win.

A 4 point road win over a ranked opponent should build our confidence and give us some momentum. We need it as #8 Auburn comes the Neyland Stadium next week!

[olympia]

next up: home game vs #8 Auburn -- TN still ranks behind Miss State in the "also getting votes" despite beating them on their home field. Auburn is a much better team and we can only hope to catch a few breaks.

it was a battle - our offense just could not move the ball against their tiger tough defense. We end up the game with 41 rushes for 21 net yards (Johnson 18 for 35). Passing wasn't much better 17 for 45, but 270 yards is pretty good. Defense kept us in it early with 5 turnovers which we turned into 5 FG's. In the end, the defense wore down and Auburn scored 3 TD's (one a 97 yard run that was a heartbreaker). We did finally get one in the endzone for a 22-21 lead, but Auburn was able to drive down and kick a FG.

We drove and had a good shot when Miller (TE) caught a pass in the open and took off for the endzone but he was hit and fumbled. That sealed the deal. We had one more chance, but we were so beat up - the WR's could not get open and our QB's were sitting ducks for sacks. we were sacked 8 times in the game (-35). We got 4 sacks, 4 ints, and 2 fumbles - but it was not enough for our impotent offense to get anything done against their tough defense. All receivers were equal in their dismal pass catching ability (Schoebel was the favorite target but only came up with 5 of 16 passes thrown his way. - including one for a TD). Tough game to lose, call it a moral victory if you want against a top 10 team. We were in it til the end, and I kept hoping our defense would make one more big play and take it the house to win it for us. We need some answers on offense - even we did just play the top defense in the land - we need to be able to move the ball and let our defense rest (we had TOP 35 to 25 thanks to the early turnovers and our feeble attempts to keep running the ball. Since they seemed focused on the run, I tried deep passes (sack), medium passes (drops), short passes (swarmed). Auburn is dialed in. That stupid lucky 97 yard run was the main difference in the game. They did not have much luck moving the ball against us either: they had 17 first downs to our 14, but 7 on the ground vs our 2. We lose starting OLB Kaufman and back-up OT Abdullah to foot injuries in the game. Neither look serious, but could hamper them for a couple weeks. Once again your final Score Tennessee 22, Auburn 24.

UT travels to Arkansas: We made it look easy early - but the game turns into a nightmare!!! We ran the opening Kickoff to the 4 yard-line, but star running back Johnson fumbles the first play and Arkansas gets a good return, then a pass for a quick 7-0 lead. But Vols bounce back as Johnson redeems himself with a 29 scoring run, then Sauter finds Schobel for a 20 yd TD. that's when the wheels fell off. First, Sauter is sacked in the endzone. Then on the next series he goes down with an injury. That's ok - right? Little has been the better QB all year, he can carry us.....except, then he gets hurt too!!! Johnson gets a 51 yard TD scamper - but then yards become very hard to find....so we settle for a couple FG's in the 4th qtr. Defense plays solid the whole day, but gives up a late score. Vols win 30-16, but loss of both scholarship QB's puts us in a precarious situation!!!

Redshirt Holmes will be forced into action for sure. I don't think he's ready for SEC caliber defenses just yet. I'm dismayed at how often my QB's get injured and maybe need to recruit more durable guys. Arkansas was held to 67 rushing and 197 passing yards. Vols rack up 200 on both sides (436 total). Both teams lost a fumble, both teams had 2 ints. My line allowed SIX SACKS (no wonder my QB's get killed!). My defense didn't get any - but only allowed 12 of 28 passing (after watching the hogs complete their first 5 passes, I am very pleased with the end result). Maese was one linebacker that got away from me, and he punished us the whole game, getting 11 tackles and 2 sacks. Their DE Lindsey got 3 sacks going against my best OT (Rutledge, who will be surely downgraded after the game. He was green, but bet he drops to yellow). Woodall was once again my star linebacker, 7 tackles, 3 stuffs, and an INT. I thought we had done a better job of hurrying them, but final stats only showed one. Their line held up good with pass protection - it was just the coverage and poor passes that sealed their fate. defense had a light day with only 41 tackles.

Doctor reports that Little has a strained quad and is doubtful for the game - he could be pressed into action if necessary. Sauter has a ligament tear in his foot - the injury seems to be progressing well enough that he could play

RANKINGS:
at the halfway point: the top 10 has LSU, Boston College, Clemson, USC, Purdue, Oklahoma, Florida State, Texas, Auburn, Georgia
Media has Clemson at #1. Boston 8th, and Miami replaces UGA at #10.

Neither poll has us ranked. Media has #32 (behind Alabama who lost to Kent State for crying out loud!)

Our defense is #15 in nation (passing D is #6). Total offense is a respecatble 42nd, 5th in rushing)

Clemson and BC will clash this week in the spotlight game - Vegas calls it EVEN despite being played at Death Valley (and home team Clemson is ranked #1). The big SEC game is #13 Georgia at #7 Auburn. UT hosts UK - despite a large advantage in offense and defense, the clouds around the QB situation only makes us a 3 pt favorites against the 2-2 Cats.

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UT vs UK:
Holmes looks nervous as he starts the game, and he drops the ball. Sauter comes back for the 2nd series but doesn't do any better. UK is stacking the line to stop our runs but our QB's cannot connect. Worst thing that could happen at this early point - UK gets a 87 yard punt return for the early lead. Johnson gets us in FG range to make it 3-7 at end of first qtr. UK was 0-5 passing and had -4 yards rushing. Could only wish to keep that up. No can do - as UK hits a 30 yard pass to start 2nd qtr and go up 3-14. All we can do is muster a couple FG's. By halftime, the stats would suggest a rout. UK has 41 total yards of offense (most coming on 3 short completions at the end of the half). However Vols racked up only 148. 3 of 13 passing, trying to keep it somewhat balanced. Holmes is a bust - even the walkons completed a pass last week. Receivers aren't helping though with several drops.
Nonetheless, the kicker and defense keeps us in the game and we trail 9-14 at halftime.

Coach reads the riot act in the lockerroom. Something about a 25 year winning streak against UK who is not having a good season. He points to DE Jim Lewis who is gutting out his injury and still trying to get it done.....during the game he broke a finger and sprained an ankle yet he keeps hobbling out there and making plays. That should inspire some of you guys on offense. A fired up Volunteer team returns to the field! Sauter responds launching a 79 yard bomb to Tai Youngblood. The Vols take their first lead of the game!! Johnson runs over the left guard for the 2 pt conversion and a 3 pt lead. THATS THE WAY TO START THE HALF!! Things don't stay that way as UK answers.
UK leads 21-20 and the Vols get a nice little drive that once again stalls in the red zone. All we need is the FG with 3:25 left in the game....IT IS BLOCKED!!!!! UK gets the ball back and tries to milk the clock. The defense stands tall and gets the ball back with 2:11 left in the game.

The fans rise and a loud roar is heard as injured QB Little makes his way onto the field. Little was not supposed to play today, but here he is! He completes a pass to Schobel, then catches the Cats out of position to hit TE Miller for another nice gain of 25 yards. time out. With the ball at the 20, we try the ground game - maybe to set up another winning FG try? Only a yard, then an incomplete pass to stop the clock. Little catches speedster Semple down the sideline....he races 15 yards down to the 5. timeout!! I have 45 seconds and am a nervous wreck.....UK is in the Nickel so we hand to Johnson for 2 yards (only 10 ticks off the clock, so we hurry back into our goal line offense). UK goes 4-4 and looks to stop the pass.....Johnson pounds the middle once again and finds paydirt!!! UT SCORES - in the excitement, they fail the 2 point try. 20 seconds left. After a touchback on the kickoff, UK gets off a couple pass plays - completing one for 19 yards and missing the other. WHAT A HARD FOUGHT GAME against what I consider an inferior opponent. It is a rivalry game and we came into the game with several key injuries. It was the strangest box score I've ever seen with our scoring looking like 3,6,8,9 = 26 points which was just enough. We outgained them 417-172. Special Teams and a makeshift passing game hurt us. Our D came up big at key points. 4 huge sacks (-26 yards). WE didn't get any turnovers though as Kentucky played smart (or conservative as the case maybe). We had a costly fumble that led to one of their scores, gave up a punt return, and had a FG blocked. Johnson receives his 3rd Player of the Game award in a row - 134 yards and a TD (28 carries as I tried to keep him fresh - using Miller and Glosson to lighten his workload a lot. They had 10 carries each, but only 30 yards. Fullbacks had 10 carries between them for 29 yards so that such how poorly the reserve RB's did). Woodall 12 tackles and 2 stuffs. No one else even had 5 tackles. He was a one-man wrecking crew as UK had 41 attempts, Woodall accounted for over a 1/3 of the stops (plus 14 incomplete passes). Youngblood's 96 receiving yards continues to open eyes. The usually dependable Schobel missed 5 passes thrown at him - but he came thru at a critical time. 26-21 win and the game ball goes to Kwame Kome on behalf of his defense

in the spotlight games: Auburn 31-20 over UGA. #1 Clemson 19-17 over Boston College. Virginia knocked off #12 Maryland. In Big 10 showdowns, Purdue squashes #23 Wisconsin 59-17. and Ohio State outlasts Iowa 50-40
LB Kaufman, QB Sauter, and WR Talemi are cleared by the medical staff for the next game. Hero QB Little continues to get better, but should rest his quad another week unless needed to pull out another miracle win.
Glosson suffered a bruised kidney in the last game and is doubtful - Johnson may have to carry a bigger part of the load. Jim Lewis with all his banging and scuffs in the UK game has inflammation in the shoulder but should be fine for the next game against Vanderbilt.

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we have a bye week: spotlight games between top 25: #15 Maryland vs #21 Va Tech. #11 Boston vs #12 Miami. #5 Michgan at #7 Purdue. #22 Texas Tech at #20 Colorado. #10 Texas at #13 Nebraska. The "upset watch" is on #24 Iowa as they travel to tough Penn State (4-2 and something to prove)

our gutsy performance last week puts us right on the edge of the Top 25 in both polls. Computers put us at #19. After the bye week, we travel to Vandy where we hope to win. But then should be underdogs against Georgia and Florida in a pair of games that should decide who represents the SEC East this year. Auburn and LSU are both unbeaten in the West and are once again the cream of the conference. As we continue to rebuild this program, I hope to be there some day.
Va Tech beat MD 20-10/ BC 23-9 over Miami. Several top 25 showdowns were routs: Purdue 49-21 over Michigan (who only drops a few spots to #9). Colorado 52-3 over TexasTech. Nebraska 44-6 over Texas. Penn State got their upset in a big way 44-22 over Iowa and replaces them in the top 25 poll #4 USC needed 3 overtimes to defeat 3-3 Arizonia, but Pac 10 saw one upset when Stanford knocked off #20 Washington 23-17. SEC saw some wipeouts too as Florida shut out Alabama 44-0 and Auburn 65-0 over South Carolina. with the few upsets, the coaches reward us with a #24 ranking. But with #19 Florida and #14 Georgia looming large, it could be short-lived. But let's take care of Vandy before we worry about either of them.

only 3 players hit the dean's bad list as grades slip to 1.95. RB Glosson, Redshirt CB Jennings, and walk-on punter Frances. I'm so happy we haven't had any academic casulties this year and trust these guys can get their grades up with a little extra work. Vandy has 4 guys suspended and UGA 2 (looking ahead to our next 3 games). As a whole, we only have 24 guys with grades LESS than a 3.0! four of those are redshirts this year and struggling around 2.1 - you'd think they'd have time to concentrate on studies since they are not playing.

It's Vandy week - but all eyes are on the LSU vs Auburn match-up in the SEC in battle of top 10 teams. #1 Clemson travels to #11 Florida State in what should be another thriller (FSU is a TD favorite at home against the top ranked team). Penn State tests their new ranking against #5 Ohio State. #4 USC travels to#16 Notre Dame

Vols win in a romp 38-17 over Vandy despite falling behind 14-0 early (can't believe we gave up a 76 yard bomb on the 2nd play). Little found Hunter for a score to close out the first qtr, then 4 long FG's gave us a 19-14 HT lead. For once it was our depth that helped wear the other team down at the end. 2 more TD passes (60 yard strike to TE Miller by Little. Then Sauter finds Hunter for his 2nd TD reception). I was a little disappointed in the pass defense for the first time all year - maybe taking the 'Dores for granted - giving up 263 thru the air. We matched that though with 269. We dominated the ground game 196-69. Little was impressive once again at QB, completing 9 of 10 for 153 yards and 2 TD's. Sauter 9 of 13 for 116 looked good as well against the lowly Commodores. Johnson carried the ground game with 30 for 168 - and another Player of the Game award. Woodall 9 tackles, 1 sack, 4 stuffs/ The Soph LB is a dominant force that we'll be watching on Sundays very soon. Oft injuried DE Jim Lewis suffered a concussion in the game. WE won't take any chances with him even though his presence would be a big boost against the Gators.

In the other spotlight games: LSU outlasts Auburn 52-45 in a shootout. Bengal Tigers jumped out 21-0 and it was 31-27 by halftime. SC upset UGA 35-23. #1 Clemson proves they are by routing the 'Noles in Tallahassee 34-19. (also in ACC, #24 Maryland goes down to defeat 13-10 to NC State). #13 BC loses at home to Wake Forest 24-21, #23 miami lost to GAtech 31-27. Ohio State23-9 winners over Penn State. So Cal went into South Bend and came away with 22-10 win to remain unbeaten.
we are ranked #21 in media poll, #19 in Coaches.

Gator Hater week in Knoxville: Florida comes in with the 4th best run defense in the nation - how will they fare against the 5th best running back in the land (in the latest award list)? Florida has a high powered offense (ranked 16th) going against our stingy defense (ranked 4th!). We are solid against both run and pass and this week we will find out what we are made of. Florida leads the SEC in takeaways - and we've had a problem putting the ball on the turf lately. That's something we need to work on this week, or it could be the difference maker.
those results will be up next!

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UT vs FLORIDA: we came in as 1 pt underdogs at home. In the end - it was Florida's defense that won the day (held us to 96 yards rushing) and they picked us apart in the air. Gators win 33-23. we were sacked 4 times, 1 int, 4 fumbles (lost 1) and gave up another punt return for a TD/ Woodall had 9 stops, but no big impact plays. Youngblood's 105 receiving yards was our highlight. Disappointed in all-star TE Miller who missed both passes thrown his way - this was his chance to shine if he wanted to garner some more national attention.

in other big games, Nebraska still lays claim to part of the top ranking as they defeat #14 Colorado 41-34. Texas Tech beats #11 Oklahoma 34-20. Both polls leave UT at #22. Media has Nebraska at #1. Coaches pick LSU. With 5 national powers undefeated, it's going to be very fluid at the top of the polls. We need to get focused on #15 Georgia. Jim Lewis says he's ready to go, and doctors hesitate but agree he could play if needed. DT Chimura and WR Schobel are the other casulties that are best held out for the next game.
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Top games this week: #2 Clemson hosts #21 NC State. #5 Ohio State puts their unbeaten record on the line as they travel to #6 Purdue (8-1). #1 Nebraska could struggle at 5-4 Oklahoma State. Couple ranked Pac 10 teams are 1 pt favorites on the road, so look for an upset or 2 out west. now, it's #22 Tennessee hosting #15 Georgia. We are 3 pt underdogs, they have the edge in offense, defense, and special teams. But this is a must win game for us if we want to maintain our ranking and have a shot at the SEC East since we are tied with Florida who has a tough game against Ole Miss left on their schedule.

UT VS UGA: what a game!!! We've had the Dog's number the last couple years - and jump out to a 27-7 Halftime lead. 2 more FG's make it 33-7 - but then a 69 yard punt return (the 3rd we've given up this year) electrifies the bullpuppies. Our bend but don't break defense allows them to drive twice but settle for FG's (I nicknamed it the Red Carpet Defense). 33-20, it's a 2 score game with 10 minutes on the clock!! Our offense finally settles back down and gets a nice little drive capped off by a 4 yard TD plunge from Miller (2 pts failed), eating up some clock in the process. UGA gets a last minute TD to make the score seem closer that it really was. Final score UT 39 - UGA 27. Our defense came to play - holding them to 74 rushing yards and 197 passing yards (my benchmark has always been 100 rushing and 200 passing, so we met both!). Georgia's junkyard dog defense gapped the middle and held Johnson in check (29 carries for 70 yards. 96 for the team) - they had 10 stuffs as a team!. Sauter came thru with the best game of his young career and was the hero for us this week. In the first half he had TD passes to Schobel (62 yards) and TWO to our TE Miller who came to play today. I can overlook the 3 sacks (since we got 4) and the 2 ints (we snagged 1). Defense caused 5 fumbles and recovered 4 of them!! Rice was on 2 of them. It's the breakdown on special teams that was me worried and I'm not sure how to fix it. Nonetheless, our young team came of age today in a light rain.

In other games, Ohio State loses its first game 44-10 at Purdue. Nebraska held on at OKST 30-20. The PAC 10 "upset alerts" were not to be as both won going away. However, Oregon State upset UCLA and will move into the top 25 this week. For our efforts, we move up to #14 in media and #12 in coaches polls. UGA dropped to #22 in both (with a 5-4 record - makes me upset considering what a great record we had last year and could not get ranked)

South Carolina is the last game on our schedule. Florida plays Ole Miss next week too. Win and they are SEC east champs, lose and we are (assuming we beat SC).

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UT vs South Carolina: 53,606 come out to watch their home team get their butts whipped good by a fired up Volunteer team. Final score UT 41 - South Carolina 16

WE rack up 479 total yards of offense. Little proved to he can be a good starting QB 11 of 16 for 216 yards (2 TD's), but Sauter is still right there with him 9 of 15 for 118 yards and 3 TD's/ Frosh WR Youngblood caught 5 passes for 89 yards, 2 TD's (one 64 yard bomb) was named player of the game. Converted WR Semple had 5 catches for 118 yards, 1 for a TD> Hunter also 5 catches, 59 yards, 2 TD's. RB Johnson 23 carries for 105 yards also had a good game. Meanwhile, our stellar defense holds USCjr to 213 yards TOTAL offense (83 on ground, 130 in the air). Thomas and Woodall 8 tackles each led the way. All in all, very pleased with this big road win.

But across the stateline, Florida routs Ole Miss 49-9 and sews up first place in the SEC east. In other big games, Kansas State knocks off #1 Nebraska 13-12. The only remaining undefeated teams are LSU, USC, and Clemson
Preseason favorite Georgia loses again - 45-35 to Alabama. They drop to 5-5 and finally fall from the Top 25 polls.

Volunteer Award finalists: TE Miller, ILB Woodall, Kicker Lockett, And I am in running for Coach of year - lot of top names and schools in the running for it.

Rivalry weeks:
#7 Auburn wins the annual Iron Bowl over rival Alabama 24-12. Miss State upsets #24 Ole Miss in the Egg Bowl 25-24. In other top 25 rivalry games: #8 Michigan 32-12 over #6 Ohio State. Oklahoma State upsets #11 Oklahoma 21-17. #22 Texas A&M beats #10 Texas 42-21, #3 USC outlasts cross-town rival UCLA 40-31.
next week Clemson puts their dreams of a national title on the line against in-state rival South Carolina. #8 Florida vs #14 Florida State, #9 Colorado vs #20 Col. State. And #13 Notre Dame vs #23 Boston College.....
wild games as FSU scores 21 4th quarter points to defeat Florida 52-48!!! (the final score, a 70 yard TD pass with 28 seconds left in the game! The other 2 were 60+ yard passes as well. Wow!) Clemson and Notre Dame win in routs. Colorado holds off a late rally to win 34-27 over Col. State.

Next a report on the Awards, the SEC Championship game between LSU and Florida, plus where will we go bowling>

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Heisman goes to Joe Harrison, QB of Purdue. 3853 yards, 29 TD's, only 6 ints. 65.1% completions. We faced him in the bowl game last year. Funny part is he does not make first team all-american (or all Big 10!)
Auburn's Julius Smith rushed for 1742 yards and 19 TD's to win the Doak Walker award

Horace Crumpler the aptly named DE from Colorado wins the Disrupter award. 38 tackles, 10 sacks, 10 stuffs. 13 hurries and 5 deflected passes. He recovered 1 fumble and ran it back for a TD. More on him later!

All-Americans
Ralph Malen of Iowa gets first team QB over the Heisman trophy winner. Ralph threw for 3586 yards and 34 TD's. Joe Harrison is 2nd team. Ray Dudley of UNC is 3rd team

No Vols win All-American honors. Auburn scores 3 first team picks. Florida, Ole Miss, and Kentucky rack up a couple 2nd/3rd team picks

We didn't get much respect in all SEC honors either. Harry Thomas wins 2nd team fullback (despite having twice as many yards as the first team pick)> TE Lamar Miller 2nd team. David Woodall, 2nd team at LB. 3rd team: Kicker Ed Locket, and DE Vinnis Rice. Though I might have expected more of our defensive players to be named, Woodall was our star and we played good team defense rather than several standouts. That helped us overcome all the injuries
Speaking of team stats>
We end up #43 total offense. (68th passing, 21st rushing) We were 3rd in total defense 295 yards a game (Utah 264, VA Tech 276). We were 5th against the pass (199) and 16th against the rush (96). Very impressive. #31 in turnover margin (24th in takeaways, just threw too many int's with the young QB's). Defense allowed less than 20 points a game which kept our sputtering offense alive and they came thru with almost 30 points a game.

in the SEC championship, LSU was only a 2 point favorite against Florida. They are both evenly matched, but Gators have a slight edge on defense. LSU remains undefeated 23-9.

the other undefeated team Clemson played Va Tech for the ACC title. Hokies spring the upset 33-26!!! 10-1 Nebraska beat 8-4 Texas for Big 12 title. Tulane beat Memphis and Western Michigan over Bowling Green
Tennessee gets invited to Dallas to face #7 Colorado. Orlando sees #8 Auburn vs #12 Ohio State. Tampa sees #20 Florida vs unranked Penn State
National title game in Orange Bowl has LSU vs USC. Rose Bowl is screwed up as 2 Big 10 teams clash: #5 Purdue vs #14 Michigan. #3 Nebraska vs #9 Notre Dame in Fiesta Bowl. Sugar Bowl #10 Va Tech vs unranked Pittsburgh

Bowls don't start too well for the SEC as UK (#11 FSU), Miss State (#14 OK) and #19 Ole Miss (Michigan State) all go down in defeat. #15 Texas Tech got their butts handed to them by Washington State 49-6 in San Diego. Texas squeaked by Minnesota 19-12 in a battle of FG's (and one TD).

Cotton Bowl results are next - we will be major underdogs going against the Big 12 offensive and defensive players of the year! Can we neutralize the might Crumpler?

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Cotton Bowl -- #7 Colorado vs #13 Tennessee.
Can our defense stop their high-powered offense led by Big 12 POY QB Tommy McClendon? Will we be able to get anything going against their defense anchored by National DPOY Horace Crumpler?

68,252 attend. To say it was a defensive struggle could be an understatement. WE kept getting good field position due to turnovers, but could not move the ball until the end of the 2nd qtr and Locket gives us a 3-0 Halftime lead.
The defense holds the Buffs on their first possession to start the half and they pin us deep....however, Big Bob Johnson breaks a 77 yard TD run to put us up 10-0. The way the defenses have been playing, that is a big mountain for Colorado to climb (no pun intended). And it proves to be the case as neither team scores again until the final minute. Against our tiring heroic defense, Peerless Jones catches a 45 yard pass to break the shut-out. We recover the onsides kick and are able to run out the final 33 seconds.
Vols win 10-7

We had 486 yards to their 289. 257 rushing to 104. Passing fairly even 179-185. Sauter was 10 of 11 (130 yards) while Little struggled a bit and was sacked twice (8 of 16 for only 49 yards). Our defense racked up 6 sacks, a fumble recovery and 3 ints. Woodall had 9 tackles. Lewis and Hamlin 2 sacks apiece. Bacon had 2 ints. Johnson the other. Star of the game goes to Bob Johnson, 23 carries for 171 yards and the key TD. Their star Crumpler was pretty much a non-factor - only 3 tackles. WR Peerless Jones picked us apart for 100 rec yards and Byrd rushed for 93 yards.
This was a huge victory for the program, beating a top 10 team.

Meanwile, Auburn lost to Ohio State and Florida crushed Penn State.
USC beats LSU 35-32 to win the national title. Notre Dame 23-9 winner over Nebraska. Va Tech routed Pitt as expected. Purdue beat Michigan 23-10 in the Rose Bowl with its lowest tv ratings ever.
Final Polls: USC, Purdue, Clemson, Ohio State, LSU, Nebraska, #7Tennessee, Colorado, Auburn, Notre Dame, Va Tech, FSU, Michigan, Oregon State, Oklahoma.

Georgia with a 5-6 record still got votes believe or it not in the top 25 ballots (5) UT finished 11th in coaches' poll

We got A ratings for everything except Talent, which was B. Overall rating was A+. Experts predict we will fall short of winning SEC, but Alumni expect at least a top 12 ranking next year.
Alabama is among the schools who inquire about my services. Others of note include Tulsa, Boise State, MTSU, UNC, Maryland, Arizonia State. However, once again we have not finished the work we started here and decline.

UAB hires UCLA asst Jamal Hunter. Duke fires their coach and brings in Walter Neighbors (who was not employeed)
Our budget increases by $145,000 - a sizeable jump (and offsets the $15K we lost last year)
Special Teams coach Doug Pruitt announced he was leaving - with all the punt returns we gave up, he won't be missed. We signed Kevin Larson from Vanderbilt to replace him. Average at development but very good game planner.
Only 2 players announce they wish to transfer after being redshirted. Back-up K Todd Carter and LB EJ Jackson. Carter can be replaced, but hate to lose Jackson as he would be Woodall's key back-up this year.
Carter leaves for Marshal. Jackson heads to Texas A&M. We did not pursue any transfers as they all had low interest.

Now it's back to the dusty Recruiting Trails!!

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Final tally of recruits:

CB Derrick Alexander, 5-stars
Immokalee (Immokalee, FL)
National Rank: 13, Regional: 6, Position: 1
signed in week 11 as our first major signee. then a dry well until week 14 when 6 guys signed and the flood gates opened for the rest of the season

RB Max Malinchak, 4-stars
South Fulton (South Fulton, TN)
National Rank: 192, Regional: 44, Position: 22

DT Brad Carroll, 4-stars
Darlington (Rome, GA)
National Rank: 221, Regional: 49, Position: 19

TE Freddie Leo, 4-stars
Pickens County (Reform, AL)
National Rank: 235, Regional: 55, Position: 9

OLB Tommy Kemp, 4-stars
Memphis University (Memphis, TN)
National Rank: 329, Regional: 73, Position: 19

CB Todd Wright, 4-stars
Montgomery Bell Academy (Nashville, TN)
National Rank: 115, Regional: 27, Position: 7

K Courtney Johnson, 4-stars
Mount Olive (Mount Olive, MS)
National Rank: 233, Regional: 54, Position: 7

DT Jack Abraham, 4-stars
Alexander (Douglasville, GA)
National Rank: 126, Regional: 30, Position: 12

ILB Steve Cercone, 4-stars
Ripley (Ripley, TN)
National Rank: 180, Regional: 40, Position: 10

DT Jeff Burgess, 4-stars
Mainland (Daytona Beach, FL)
National Rank: 415, Regional: 93, Position: 33

FB Charles Scott, 4-stars
Ogemaw Heights (West Branch, MI)
National Rank: 347, Regional: 65, Position: 13

QB Raymond Anderson, 4-stars
Kalamazoo Christian (Kalamazoo, MI)
National Rank: 399, Regional: 72, Position: 29

C Max Young, 3-stars
Portland (Portland, TN)
National Rank: 184, Regional: 41, Position: 10

OG Obafemi Hill, 3-stars
Hudson (Hudson, OH)
National Rank: 810, Regional: 147, Position: 43

DE Tank Eason, 3-stars
Raleigh Egypt (Memphis, TN)
National Rank: 980, Regional: 242, Position: 67

OT Alex Spilis, 2-stars
Warner Christian Academy (South Daytona, FL)
National Rank: 1052, Regional: 260, Position: 66

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this stacks up as the #6 recruiting class (not bad following last year's #2 class - not much in the way of 5-stars, but mostly solid players).

the classes went to:
Nebraska (six 5-stars)
Maryland (five 5-stars)
Va Tech
Michigan
Missouri
UT Vols
Minnesota
Auburn
Colorado
Washington State

Elsewhere in the SEC
LSU 11, Florida 12, Bama 45, Georgia 33, MS State 23, Ole Miss 42, So Carolina 54, Ark 70th, UK 53, Vandy 93rd

We did it mostly on local in-state guys this year (6 from TN). We dipped into Florida for 3 and GA for 2. Went north for 3 players, 2 out of Michigan and 1 from Ohio. Then 1 from Alabama and Mississippi..

two guys that I chased very hard ended up going to LSU
Chesson (#1 RB out of GA) ends up 4.5 of 5 at RB for the Bengal Tigers, they also stole Han**** at LB who is 2.5 of 5 (four 5-stars overall)

we will start the year ranked #27 (#22 in coaches' poll)
Top 10 has Texas, Ok, Miami, Nebraska, Michigan, FSU, Purdue, USC, Florida, Clemson. WOW, Big 12 with 3 of top 4 teams. SEC has 7 top 25 teams

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First game of the new season:

Tennessee vs Virginia
UT 20-16 winner over Virginia. Let's just hope it was a case of first game jitters. 8 penalties for 73 yards, 2 ints, 2 lost fumbles - several injures AGAIN, QB Sauter goes down with a skull fracture forcing true freshman Anderson into the game. We outgain them 471-351, but that is little consolation against a team we should beat by 2 TD's instead of a nail-biting finish. Our 2 Jr's QB's were a combined 16 of 28 passing for 257. Freshman Anderson 3-3 for 30 yards. If not for Orduna's 77 TD catch to answer their score in the 3rd QTR, this could have been a tough loss. It was running back by committee, trying to find someone to take charge. But aside from a couple big runs, we failed to move the ball. Line held up pretty good - it is the best offensive line we've had here in Knoxville in quite some time. They need to step up and enforce their will on other teams (cannot afford 8 missed blocks and 3 holding penalties again). Defensively, Woodall was once again a standout with 10 tackles. Lewis and Thomas were in the backfield all day, 4 hurries and 2 sacks. Ford made a TD saving tackle, forcing a fumble on the 1-yard line (a game saving play as it turns out). So we have some heroes, but we also have a ton of work to do before Army comes to town.

Notre Dame wins at USC 22-18 in the spotlight game of the week

[Neil_1113]

I just read through your play, and I must say I'm impressed! Haha I'm heading on over to Tennessee and starting my new diary there, which you're more then invited to check it out! Although it's more on the focus of a single kid, making his dream come true... so to speak. :) I just finished the training camp write up and am now starting the season, though this isn't mean to be a plug on my diary. I'm truly looking forward to reading more of yours rather or not you choose to look at mine, so don't feel obligated too.

But regarding your team, why do you think you're losing so many turnovers? Gratned, your stater QB went out early in the game but even so... 2 lost fumbles? It seems like you're lucky it didn't turn into an upset! I wonder how Anderson is going to do next week, or is Sauter able to play? I'm rooting for you guys against Army! :)

[olympia]

why do you think you're losing so many turnovers? Gratned, your stater QB went out early in the game but even so... 2 lost fumbles? It seems like you're lucky it didn't turn into an upset! I wonder how Anderson is going to do next week, or is Sauter able to play? I'm rooting for you guys against Army

I'm enjoying your diary so far and look forward to more. Need some positive distractions this year with the real Vols in bigtime rebuilding.
I'm not sure why we always have so many turnovers. Maybe it's youth and inexperience. injuries have killed me every year and my offensive line play can be sporadic. I recruit as many as I can, but they have just not developed like I would want them to. Just have to keep building up the depth for the inevitable injury bug. As for Army -- well IT"S FOOTBALL TIME IN TENNESSEE.....

but first a look at the previous week (we had a BYE)
Notre Dame follows up their huge win last week by losing to Michigan State 31-29. 3 big games in SEC Miami beats LSU 33-26, UCLA beats Alabama 26-24. But Mississippi State beats Ohio State 27-24 In academic news, Starting freshman CB Alexander failed to keep up with his studies and will be sitting on the bench beside DE Burgess. Couple other players came close to failing as well - tough to use up all my extra tutors in the first week of the season, but maybe these will get it. They are students first - and since they can't see that, I'll just have to remind them that if they want to be athletes here, they will have to make the grades. now on to our game...

Tennessee vs Army
first qtr is scoreless, but VOLS move the ball to the one yard line. 4th and goal from the one and movement on the line makes the decision easier - FG for 3. We tack on another FG --Three defensive holding penalties have kept the defense on the field longer than they needed to be. Then a roughing the passer penalty gives the Cadets new life before the half, puts them in position to kick a FG making the HT score 6-3. UT starts an impressive drive to open the 2nd half, but a holding penalty stalls the drive and we kick our 3rd FG of the game. We go into the 4th qtr in this battle of FG's leading 15-9 - much too close for comfort. You'd think my "powerful" line could wear down their defense by now to where we have more holes for the runs instead of holds and false starts. Another FG makes it 18-9 and a little breathing room -- with under a minute to go our Defense holds Army deep in our territory, they go for it on 4th and 27 and fail. 3 plays later, Miller runs it in for a "meaningless" TD. However, Army runs the ensuing kick-off back to the FOUR YARD LINE! With 8 seconds to go, we are able to tackle their receiver in open field and time expires.
Final Score UT wins 25-9. Player of game with 6 FG's is our kicker Lockett. we outgain them 423 to 171 (164-3 on the ground). We threw passes to 9 different receivers and tried running with 8 different guys - the offense just sputters in the Orange Zone (maybe something to do with the O-Line missing 6 blocks). That's something we have to get better at. We can't just sit back and hope to reel off a big play - we need to score once we get inside the 20. Our defense played lights out - 5 sacks, 6 stuffs, a couple hurries, and 3 ints. QB's went 21 of 32 passing for 259 yards. Army was able to keep everything in front of them and prevent the big play. Frosh QB Anderson was 5 of 7 (only misses were a couple of hail mary's at the end of first half). He's been impressive in relief of Sauter who's out with a skull fracture (here we go again!!). Not that the starter Little is doing poorly, but he is also injury prone so it's good to give Anderson some experience now. I think the youngster from Michigan will be a future star if he stays healthy. Just like Tyler Bray (from the real-life UT), he needs to gain some experience and confidence - and not be thrown to the wolves.

during our next open date, Florida beats #13 Auburn 34-20 and leaps over 7 other teams to become the new #1 team in the land. Clemson, Texas, Michigan, Purdue, Miami all remain undefeated The media has Vandy ranked 24th and we're unranked - behind a 1 loss Alabama team. The way our offense struggles lends itself to this disrespect. We just have to keep taking care of business, and improve every week. South Carolina is up next.

[Neil_1113]

Man Lockett was a lifesaver for you, wasn't he? It seems like not being able to capitalize in the end zone is a punishment for having new kids as your starting O. Though, I could've read wrong. You might not have it a newly based squad.

Your defense also looks like it might have been your saving grace this game as well. Though I must ask, it looks like Anderson is doing better then Little is currently, why not just let Anderson start? And with so many people running and catching on your team, do you not have any red shirted guys?

[olympia]

WE are forced to play a lot of youngsters. Seems like every recruiting class helps us to upgrade a few areas, and others provide depth. I have a few redshirts - but always seem to lose a couple of them to transfers (which doesn't seem right). I meant to post an overview summary for the roster earlier, but here goes:

QB
Little and Sauter expect to battle for the starting spot. On a 10 pt scale, both are rated a 5. Sauter has slightly more potential (7vs 6). Freshman Anderson is rated 4 of 6, will be their back-up.

RB
We have a lot of potential at the halfback postion as 4 guys have 8 potential. Bill Miller (6) is the best at the moment and will try to carry the load. Glosson and RSF Barry, and true Freshman Malinchak are capable back-ups ( 5 of 8)
Two young fullbacks Soph George and Fr. Scott (5 of 7) are good blockers and should help us pick up some tough yards when needed.

WR
four guys rated 5 of 7 anchor the group. Solid, but no real standouts. Semples has 90 rated speed, so we'd love to get him the ball with room to run. Youngblood is the only senior and proved to be a big-play guy last year.

TE
Once again, we have a dynamic duo at TE. JR Lamar Miller (6 of 8) makes several preseason award lists. Freshman Freddie Leo (5 of 9) was the 9th best TE in the nation last year. The other 3 on the roster are not good enough to play in the SEC, so we can only hope they never really have to on a consistent basis.

OL
We have a decent 2 deep at each position. 6-8 potential but only 4-5 current rating at tackle and center. A pair of 6/8 rated guards will have to anchor us up front.

DE

we have a couple guys who just never lived up to their potential. Blair and Lewis are 5 of 9. They will give us some highlight moments, but are just not consistent. Redshirt Freshman Chris Rogers will compete for one starting spot (he's 5 rated with 7 potential) and is a converted DT.

DT
we've had better recruits at this postion. Four guys with 8 potential Pair of 4-rated Freshman will join 5-rated Soph Hamlin and 6-rated SR Thomas (who has struggled with grades in the past)

LB
Linebacker is one of our strengths. 6/9 rated Junior MLB Woodall has been the star of this team. True freshman Cercone is 4/9 rated and expects to be the heir apparent. Also a couple 4/7 guys in reserve. On the outside spots, 4/8 Kemp and 5/9 Ross should protect the wings as they are good tacklers and good cover men. Not as much depth here as we have been forced to convert MLB recruits each year.

CB
Sr. Todd (5 of 7) and So Dodril (5 of 8) are solid. Best cover man is Senior Bear (4/8, 82 cover). 3 good freshman in reserve 4/7 and 5/9. None really stand out, but look like a solid group overall.

Safety
again we are young. FS Ford is 5/8 while SS Johnson is 4/9. The kids are backed up by solid seniors, so we will need to continue to recruit this position.

kicker/punter
Locket is 10/10 as kicker and we have 7/10 Johnson coming in as a freshman, Anderson is 6/8 punter, but he seems to be adequate if he continues to improve over his rookie season.

[olympia]

UT vs South Carolina: we were a Touchdown favorite in our first road game. Our rush defense was ranked #1 in the nation and it would be tested against a back who gains over 100 a game. Their running back, Hadnot "won" that battle gaining 121 yards. It didn't look good early as our D gave up the big play - a 70 yard TD pass from Montana (no relation) to Chris Speedie (aptly named WR). That was the last time SC would see the endzone though. Our QB, Little went down to an injury as we feared putting the game in the hands of freshman Raymond Anderson. The Michigan native struggled at first throwing 3 picks and being sacked twice, but he finally settled down and did an admirable job: 13 of 27 for 167 yards and 2 TD's (17 yarder to Youngblood and 8 yarder to Orduna to seal the game in the 4th qtr). UT wins 27-7. Glosson outshone Miller rushing for 79 yards on 8 carries (Miller had 66 yards on 16 carries). My line gave up 5 sacks total and thought their 5 pancakes might make up for it. They need to be more consistent. Madise had 4 Key run blocks. The D recovered a couple fumbles to offset our ints. and DT Thomas recorded a couple sacks.

in other big games: #4 Ole Miss beat #12 Auburn. The Rebels face top ranked Florida next. #7 Oklahoma beats #2 Texas….and drops to #11 in the media poll. Go figure. Texas slips to #5. #4, 5, and 6 all lost as well.

Michigan St edged #4 Michigan 25-24. #5 Clemson lost to #17 Maryland (who moves to #12). #6 Purdue lost by 10 to Ohio State the Boilermakers have #13 South Bend next so no chance rest for the weary
Six 2-loss teams in the media top 25. Meanwhile, the Vols drop another notch after each win. We drop to #24 in the coach's poll - they list us with the #6 SOS. Part of that could have to do with both experienced QB's being injured - again.

Glosson follows up his stellar performance by partying too much and ends up in suspended along with WR Orduna, CB Alexander, and DE Burgess. Got spoiled last year when most of the players actually seemed to go to class.

[olympia]

I had played this season out, and not sure why I have not posted any more of the results - so to make up for that transgression:

UT Vols vs Arkansas Razorbacks
Vols jump out to good lead early. Couple FG's and a TD before the Hogs got on the board with a FG. With 15 seconds before halftime Anderson hits TE Miller for a 32 yard TD - VOLS go in ahead 19-3.
QB Little gets injured (again) and Arkansas gets a 50 yard punt return. Vols offense sputters a bit, but Anderson is able to lead them down the field to tack on some FG's and give the D a little breathing room.
Final Score. UT wins 28-13.

we outgain them 494-282. Little and Anderson had identical stats: 12 of 18 for 155 yards and a TD (Anderson did throw one pick). Miller 25 carries for 136 yards. TE Miller was the favorite target - catching all 6 passes thrown his way, 85 yards and a TD and was named MVP. The O-Line looked a little better today. Only gave up 2 sacks and racked up 6 pancakes and 5 key run blocks (both sacks came from the reserves). Thomas scores another sack, and Kitna picked off one pass. Defense played solid "bend but don't break" and their QB was 14 of 35, and held them to 56 yards rushing. If not for the punt return, it would be hard to find fault.

In other games: Florida rocks Ole Miss 33-16. LSU knocks off #25 Alabama. Across the top 25, #2 Miami handles #10 Clemson 31-16. Purdue fell to Notre Dame (only fall to 12th in the polls after 2 losses to ranked teams). Media has UT ranked #27 - right behind 2 loss Alabama. Coaches move us up to #21, computers have us #19.

Next week we play #1 Florida. Should be a barn burner. I'd feel better about the game if we were not starting a true freshman QB due to injuries. Sauter is cleared to play if things go badly. Our star DE Lewis also has a lower back injury and will be hampered.

[olympia]

Tennessee Vols vs #1 FLORIDA Gators

I was so proud of my 13 "green" rated players until I saw the Gators. Their entire starting line-up was loaded with green and blue chippers. It didn't help that several of my best players were injured. It hurt even more when starting tailback Miller joined his back-up Barry on the injured reserve during the game (and 3rd string Glossen suspended). That forced a walk-on into the game to join a true freshman QB who was being spelled by another walk-on. Then my OT Rutledge tore some cartledge in his ankle. Gators rolled up 507 yards and held us to 301 en route to a 41-6 romp. The walk-on RB fumbled twice, the QB's threw for a combined 16 of 41. It was a destruction we haven't seen since facing LSU a couple years ago in the SEC championship game. Florida is deserving of their #1 ranking.
Nothing much more to say about the game. Now we need to regroup and fast since we travel to #7 Ole Miss next week

UT VOLS vs #7 Ole Miss
Another loss - Ole Miss 26-13 and the game was not as close as the score.

Ole Miss outgains 431 to 324. Both teams stuffed the run, but our QB by committee was 14 of 33 for 218 yds (compared to their 25 of 40 for 375 yards). The offense was decimated by injuries at every position and that had a major impact on our play. The defense played their hearts out and never quit - we forced two fumbles in the 4th quarter which prevented the Rebs from running the score up. The receivers did not help out our injured and rookie QB's at all, dropping passes left and right. Rookie OG Hill was forced into action and allowed 2 sacks. He did recover 2 fumbles after those sacks. WE have Kentucky next - a tough rivalry game with 7 key players still sidelined and others not at 100%. The good news is 3 suspended players will be eligible to return to action.

despite the back to back losses, the coaches have us ranked #23! Media still has us at 27. Funny part is 2 teams with losing records Nebraska and Purdue are in the top 25. Ole Miss jumps up the #3 after thier big victory over the walking wounded who give "Volunteers" whole new meaning.

our next games are against bitter rivals Kentucky and Vanderbilt. These games can be nail-biters no matter which team has the most talent. And right now, our talent is spending more time in Rehab than the practice field. 2 must win games for the Vols against teams who would love nothing more than end our winning streaks against them.

[olympia]

UT VOLS vs Kentucky Wildcats

UT at UK - typical border state rivalry war!! UK led 7-6 at the half as Lockett missed a 25 yard FG at the buzzer. UK tacks on 2 more FG's in the 3rd before the Vols offense finally got something going. A 12 play drive for 60 yards - Anderson's 20 yard pass to Youngblood was the big play, then Max Malichak capped it off with a 3 yard dive over the right guard for the tying score.
The defense stiffened with a couple 3-and-outs. The offense continued to mount long drives but stalled when they got crossed the 50 and punted. Finally, the Wildcat defense was worn down and the speedster Semple breaks free for a TD pass from Anderson. The defense continued to hold UK for 1-2 series and the offense milked the clock for all it was worth - including one 6 minute drive that ended with a sack/fumble. The Wildcats had new life, but 3 incomplete passes sealed their fate.

" Exciting" ballgame that ends 20-13 Vol victory. We outgained them 441 to 248 (161 to 88 on the ground). Youngblood and Semple each missed 7 passes thrown in their direction. The makeshift offensive line allowed 3 sacks (all by Mehl who doubled as guard and back-up center), but Mehl delivered a big pancake block on the go ahead TD pass. Sweeney had two pancakes on his first start of the year. Coleman of UK only completed 12 of 38 passes. Anderson 9 of 20, Sauter 7 of 16 for UT. UK stuffed our runs 8 times in the backfield and made it very hard to get a rushing game going (thanks in big part to 11 missed blocks by our makeshift line). Starting LB Kaufman and Nickelback Bear join the walking wounded - almost as many injured players as we have healthy!

The win puts us 24/20 in the polls. Florida, Ga Tech, Miami, and Michigan State are the remaining unbeatens atop the polls. Oregon State and Washington also unbeaten but untested so not in top 10 yet.

We go from one hated rival to another - cross state Vanderbilt Commodores before Alabama comes to town.

[olympia]

UT VOLS vs VANDERBILT COMMODORES

star OT Rutledge is still on DL, but OG Capeletti returns as does sack master DE Jim Lewis. Too bad, Cap only lasted 2 series before suffering another injury. Vandy has one of the worst offenses in the country and poor defense to boot. But they are cross-state rivals and came to play! Their pitiful defense held the Vols to -20 yards rushing!!!! The Vol QB's stepped up their game for 300 yards passing, but would it be enough as Vandy seemed to move the ball at will. I think we took them for granted!

Vandy led 31 to 21 going into the 4th qtr. Little hit Orduna for a short pass to cut into the lead. The defense was fired up and Thomas sacks the QB in the endzone for a safety - but we still trail by 1. Both defenses played tough and yards were hard to come from. UT got one last chance - 2 minutes to go from the 10 yard line (90 yards from paydirt). Everytime I got a good pass play, it would be called back for a penalty. I was afraid we'd end up with a safety, but finally a nice pass to give us breathing room. Then a 44 yard streak to Youngblood with under a minute left. We hurry to the line and connect on a couple more passes getting us to the 25 yard line. With sweaty palms I call time out with 16 seconds left - I put the game in Lockett's hands (moreso his feet). The kick is up.....it's good!!!!! Vols pull off a miracle comeback in Nashville 33-31.

I am disgusted with our defense and our offense (understandably the line - allowing 11 stuffs and 4 sacks). Woodall had 4 stuffs for us and Thomas had the big safety sack, but no one else really stepped up with a big play. Orduna and Youngblood gave us over 100 yards receiving each. No question about it, we NEED to get healthy!! If we had played anyone else we would have been blown out of the stadium. QB Sauter hurts his shoulder and is on the shelf again. Most of the other players are at least elevated to "probable" for the next game. Also so much for player development! All my "green" rated players dropped to YELLOW after the game (and some yellows even fell to brown)

Alabama is next followed by Georgia

[olympia]

3rd Saturday in October
Tennessee vs Alabama

UT returns home for BAMA WEEK> "round the bowl, and down the hole….roll tide roll" -- they have the #1 passing defense in the world - they should have my QB by committee shaking in their boots.

Things start as expected - Little tries a screen pass to the TE that hits the DT in the chest and he grabs an INT> thankfully they were called for holding and we get the ball back. Oh well, Miller fumbles two plays later - but they are held to a FG. First play in our second series: interception! but this time our defense holds. end of first qtr sees Bama lead 3-0.
They have 19 yards and we have 17 total yards of offense. Looks like it might be a game of field position and who makes the mistakes - but then Bama hits a big play (40 yard pass) and 3 plays later run it in for a huge 10-0 lead.

Freshman Anderson replaces the ineffective Little (who was 1 of 6) and leads the team on a nice 60 yard drive that stalls at the 10. Locket's FG is blocked (of course - had to be that Mountain Cody curse) and returned 30 yards. But again our defense holds and bama has to punt. When we get the ball back, the QB is sacked and fumbles but recovered by the FB. next play Miller is tatooed and fumbles - this time Bama gets it.
The Vols finally get on the scoreboard with 12:01 left in the game (trail 3-10). Many feel there's a little hope left the way the offense fails to move the ball; however, stranger things have happened.... Bama completes a long pass but a big hit by Dodril puts the ball on the turf, a hustling Rogers picks it up and the Vols are back in business. Hunter outleaps their FS for a 26 yard pass play, then Glosson gets us inside the 10. We keep inching forward until it's 4th and Goal from the ONE! Hand-off to Miller who powers it in from 1 yard out on 4th down and the game is tied!! WAIT- I spoke too soon. Locket blows the extra point and the coaches, fans and teammates are not very happy with him at all! 7 minutes to go, and now we need to get the ball back again in good field postion. can the defense deliver? They hold for 3 and out, but Bama punts down to the 4. We get one first down then throw the 4th INT of the game. Bama scores 3 plays later.

Offense stalls and time runs out. Heart-breaking 17-9 loss (but can't believe it was actually this close). We were in this game and who knows what would have happened if we made the XP. Momentum was on our side, or it may have awaken Alabama. Time its time to regroup and get ready for Georgia, the last SEC game of the season.

[olympia]

UT vs UGA.
Offensively, this team is just not too much fun to play with right now. 103 yards rushing, 133 yards passing. But the defense holds the Dogs to 278 total yards.
It was a battle of FG's and score was 12-12 going into final minute. Little finds the speedster Semple on the fly and the Vols score a TD to win 19-12. 60 yards at the end - great time to unleash our firepower. (lol) Redshirt Freshman Chris Rogers has the best game of his career: 6 tackles, 2 stuffs and is named player of the game.


#4 Texas and #3 Oregon State are both upset. Some mid-majors find their way into the top 25. Fresno State, Boise State, and Utah with 9-1 records. No VOLS lists in the award finalists - hard to imagine I know with this injury-riddled mess of a team.

We wrap up the SEC at 5-3 (7-3 overall so far), should be good enough for 2nd or 3rd. Two big non-conference games left to conclude the season. 9-1 West Va and mighty ASU for senior day. Win both and we should be sitting pretty for a bowl at 9-3. Lose one and we could drop to a minor bowl.

[olympia]

Tennessee vs West Virginia

9-1 and Big East leader West Virginia rides a 7 game winning streak into Neyland Stadium - and the 18th ranked Vols are 1 point underdogs to unranked Mountaineers.

The Vols look unstoppable on the first drive with a good mix of runs and passes leading to a 44 yard TD pass to Charles Hunter and the early lead. WVU gets a long pass downfield (68 yards), but SS Johnson runs him down and punches the ball out at the goal line. Vols recover to prevent the score. However, a quick 3 and out (moved backward) and we punt. DE Blair gets us the ball back with an INT. We mix up some runs with Barry and the fullback, then a 34 yard flare to Barry puts the ball on the goalline. FB George hammers it in! 14-0. Our defense plays bend but don't break and go into halftime leading 17-6.
Second half was a slugfest and the Vols hold on for a 27-13 victory! We outgain 423-393 (dismal performance by our D, but they do have a high-powered offense and we managed to keep them out of the endzone for the most part). They only complete 15 of 43 passes or it could have been a different story. Hunter was our star with 5 catches, 92 yards and 2 TD's. The line did good with 3 key run blocks, couple pancakes, and only 1 sack allowed. Blair and Hamlin picked up sacks for us as we put pressure on the QB all day. Very exciting game against a very tough team.

We move up to #17. In other games, Alabama upsets #9 Auburn in the Iron Bowl/ 24-22. Ohio State 19-14 winner over Michigan. UCLA knocks off USC 14-11. WVU moves to #27 in both polls.
One more regular season game left - Arizona State for senior day

[olympia]

Tennessee vs Arizonia State

#22 UT hosts ASU - senior day and each senior gets to run thru the T as his name is called out. Huge cheers for men like Lewis and Blair who have been our sack leaders. Linebackers Mackey and Kaufman. Offensive linemen Cappenti and Abdullah. CB Todd gets extra cheers as he comes out, arm in a sling, his career probably done due to dislocated shoulder.

With all the emotion of Senior Day, the Vols struggle a bit early. ASU drives but throws an INT> we go 3 and out. ASU drives for a FG> TN puts together a nice 5 minute drive to rest the defense and even the T.O.P, then we top it off with a Barry 2 yard dive. First half was a good defensive struggle and we lead 10-9 at half.

2nd half reminds us that Yogi Berra was right - it's never over til its over! 12 yard pass from Anderson to Barry, followed by a couple Lockett FG's give the Vols a "commanding" 23-9 lead with 6 minutes left in the game.

ASU does not go quietly - 60 yard TD bomb by Wilkins to Thatcher Johnson cuts the lead back to 23-16 and it's a game again. Kitna returns the ensuing kick 86 yards down to the ASU 16 yard line. Five plays later, and fullback George runs it in from the 7 for a TD. 30-16 and only 5 minutes left in the game. Defense forces a punt - but Vol offense can only convert one first down and we punt back with 1:27 left in the game. WE play deep, but once again Wilkins connects with Thatcher Johnson for a 51 yard TD bomb!! 30-23. We barely recover the onside kick...run a couple plays...fumble one and a lineman luckily jumps on the loose ball. ASU burns their 3 timeouts and we punt the ball to the 7. Deep zone and QB scrambles for 8 yards. He hurries to line to spike the ball right as the clock expires. Vols hang on to win 30-23.

We gave up an astonishing 405 yards while gaining 344. Our QB's were sacked 5 times and our pass rush was pretty much non-existent. Little was 11 of 12 passing for 136 yards. He was flushed from the pocket 5 times for 15 yards and sacked 3 times (once re-injuring his leg). Leading rusher was Barry - 19 carries for 57 yards. Malinchak had 13 carries for 18 yards. A lot of defensive players saw plenty of playing time due to injuries and fatigue. Woodall was our savior again with 9 tackles, 2 stuffs. Lewis chased the QB until going down with another injury. We won and that's all that matters. Hoping the medical staff can put the Humptey Dumpty back together again in time for a bowl game.

I'll have the post season honors and Conference Championships up next. Plus where we will go bowling and who will we play?

[olympia]

Skip Blair is named 1st team all-sec at DE, Darryl Thomas 2nd team DT. Surprising, Miller is 3rd team TE and Madise 3rd team OG. Bryan Thomas makes 3rd team strong safety. Not much to brag about with individual awards - but this is a team game. And the team did alright

#2 Ga Tech ekes by Florida State 22-20 in ACC. Meanwhile #1 Florida chokes in the SEC and falls to LSU 37-24/ This drops them to 3rd in the polls and allows Michigan State to move up and play for the National Title.

We will go to Tampa to take on Iowa (8-3 and 3rd in Big 10)

[olympia]

OUTBACK BOWL - TAMPA FLORIDA
TENNESSEE VOLS VS IOWA HAWKEYES

Defense plays well early giving VOLS good field position. We take advantage of the short field to jump out to a big early lead (17-0 in first qtr, 24-3 at half). Miller and Malichak both TD runs from inside the 5, then Semple catches an 18 yarder for another score.

2nd half saw both teams get a long TD catch as the defenses stood tall and refused to allow any other scores. UT wins 31-10. we had a balanced attack for 396 total yards (239 in air, 157 on ground). Woodall's 7 tackles and 2 stuffs led our defense who held the mighty Hawkeyes to 300 total yards.
Nice end to a solid season, and something to build on.


National Title game:
GA Tech defeats Michigan State to win the national title. Tennessee ends up the year ranked #17

[lordenforcer]

Great Read

[olympia]

thanks, appreciate the feedback. I was debating whether to start up another year and post the results

[Matt23134]

Just curious olympia, do you sim your games or play them out with the play by play feature?

[olympia]

Just curious olympia, do you sim your games or play them out with the play by play feature?

I tend to play most of the games out with play by play - sometimes, I let the Coordinators call the plays (but will still override them and "audible" when I see fit). Some games I do SIM just to see what the team can do without me.

There are several ways to play this game - from just only Recruiting and let the computer coach use your players as they see fit. Only coach only the offense or defense, or do it all. Merits to each method.

[olympia]

year end house-keeping

WE get a B+ overall rating - A for recruiting and prestige. B for performance, talent, and expectations. WE should have the horses to make a run next year if we can deliver another solid recruiting year
they cut our budget $25,000 (2350000) and we have $100,750 for recruiting practices. Several assistant coaches get head coaching jobs (not ours) and none of our underclassmen are expected to declare early for NFL

We use the budget cut as an excuse to cut loose the $625,000 salary commanded by our OC Ron Porter -- and actually upgrade with Sylester Shockey, an Auburn grad. (excellent game planner and scouter of RB/WR/ good motivater and developer at most positions. He's only average with OL which has been a weakness. but upgrading at other positions, so we expect to get our high powered offense off the ground next year. He only cost us $575,000

bad news in transfers as we lose MLB Steve Cercone and DE Jeff Burgess, two guys we expected to compete for starting positions this year and provide ample playing time. As a Freshman, Cercone played in 10 games last year, and had 14 tackles. With his 9 potential, he was expected to be the heir apparant when Woodall graduates this year. The AD told us he would try to find some additional money for recruiting since 2 more scholarship slots just opened up.

Recruiting is up next

[olympia]

We enter the Recruiting wars hoping to sign a QB (we have 2 seniors and a rising Soph - this has been an oft injuried position for us, so depth is important!)

WE also want to sign some quality offensive linemen! Many say you can never have enough lineman and in our case, we continue to struggle here. From there, we need fill in some holes and add depth in other areas

None of the top flight QB's expressed much interest early (maybe not wanting to play behind 2 seniors?), but looks like some good news on the line front:
4 star OT's Dave Moore, Ron Howard, and AJ O'Neal all have the Vols listed as their top school as does 4 star OG Nathan Chesire. Also, top RB Daute Dixon and TE Keith Porter - both Juco's have told respected recruiting services, they like Tennessee the most at this time.

I could be very happy with the class if we landed all these top guys, but as we all know it is a long and windy road to Signing Day

[olympia]

Week 9 started things off with a bang as the top rated TE in the nation signs with the VOLS. Keith Porter is the #23 rated player overall in the nation (#6 in the SE). He will be the 2nd hightest rated player signed by UT (after Derrick Alexander, the #13 CB from 2009). Porter played his HS ball in Alabama, and has been attending the Mississippi Delta CC the last couple years/

WEEK 11 brings more bad news than good:
we did sign the #28 rated Free Safty, Larry Studsill signs with the Vols. #457 overall, the cover safety from Long Beach MS will provide some depth in the defensive backfield. Depending on which recruiting service the Star gazers read, he is a 3 or 4 star recruit. Either way, we are happy to have him.

the downside is a host of highly sought after guys signed elsewhere :(
top OG prospect Chesire goes to Clemson. OT Moore has us atop his list, but then signs with Bama. LB Rivera to Auburn. LB Arnold to Miami. Over the next couple weeks, we will lose out on Dixon (RB) and the other OL prospects we were after. Definite time to regroup and see what our plan B list looks like!!

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Week 14 signed 4star ILB Gaffney, pair of 3 star Ots (Harrison and Woodson), and 3 star FS Buckman.

week 15: LB Shlesinger, 3* RB Thompson, 4* ath WR Kline Reed, OG Moreau

week 16: WR Cunningham, RB Bennett

last week: couple 3* DE's, Breaux and Kramer and a warm body for DT 2* Conwell

#17 ranked recruiting class, kind of dissapointing after the last couple years. Most of the guys will be for depth purposes only and not expected to make an impact

Nebraska ended up with #1 class followed by USC and Michigan State

Tennessee had the top ranked class in the SEC!! Followed by LSU at 23, Alabama 24, Auburn 27. Florida was #40
Bama had 8 4-5 stars but also 8 1 stars, so feast or famine for them'

3 from TN, 4 from GA, 5 from FLA. 1 each from Alabama (MS Juco), Ark, MS, and LA

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TE Keith Porter, 5-stars
Mississippi Delta CC (MS), Demopolis, AL, HS - AL
National Rank: 23, Regional: 6, Position: 1

ILB Will Gaffney, 4-stars
Lakeside (Lake Village, AR)
National Rank: 357, Regional: 78, Position: 29

RB Rickey Bennett, 4-stars (3 stars on another site)
Coffee County Central (Manchester, TN)
National Rank: 702, Regional: 173, Position: 64

OT Curtis Harrison, 4-stars (3)
Bayshore (Bradenton, FL)
National Rank: 422, Regional: 95, Position: 28

WR Kline Reed, 4-stars
Colquitt County (Moultrie, GA)
National Rank: 325, Regional: 68, Position: 30

SS Carl Compton, 3-stars (4 star on other site)
Pine Crest (Fort Lauderdale, FL)
National Rank: 328, Regional: 71, Position: 19

FS Shawn Buckman, 3-stars
Stephenson (Stone Mountain, GA)
National Rank: 439, Regional: 101, Position: 26

OT Ken Woodson, 3-stars
Stephenson (Stone Mountain, GA)
National Rank: 536, Regional: 127, Position: 38

FS Larry Studstill, 3-stars (4)
Long Beach (Long Beach, MS)
National Rank: 457, Regional: 105, Position: 28

OG Nate Moreau, 3-stars
Wolfson (Jacksonville, FL)
National Rank: 538, Regional: 128, Position: 29

ILB Travis Schlesinger, 3-stars (or 4 star / TOS)
Lake Highland Prep (Orlando, FL)
National Rank: 395, Regional: 88, Position: 33

WR Terry Cunningham, 3-stars
Mandeville (Mandeville, LA)
National Rank: 370, Regional: 84, Position: 38

RB Willie Thomason, 3-stars
Donelson Christian Academy (Nashville, TN)
National Rank: 890, Regional: 224, Position: 77

DE Bobby Kramer, 3-stars
Pike County (Zebulon, GA)
National Rank: 442, Regional: 102, Position: 20

DE Larry Breaux, 3-stars
Fort Walton Beach (Fort Walton Beach, FL)
National Rank: 622, Regional: 151, Position: 38

DT Lloyd Conwell, 2-stars
Upperman (Baxter, TN)
National Rank: 1535, Regional: 402, Position: 63

one site gives UT five 5/4 star recruits, while the other gives me 6. Not sure how the two charts differ, but interesting (and comparable to Scout vs Rivals). Both list Shawn Buckman 3 star, but with 49 out of 72 ratings, he could develop into a fine player. Porter came in at 74 of 83, earning his 5 star status. After him, Kline Reed (55/77) and Carl Compton (52/73) are highest rated - but both expect to redshirt due to experienced talent ahead of them on the depth charts. Most will need a lot of work and development and I could see 10 of these 16 guys redshirted (just hope they see the value in that and stick around)

next can take a look at our Roster breakdown and prospects for the 2010 season

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2010 roster breakdown
QB Little and Sauter are both seniors now and have the experience to lead this team to victory. Little has pulled ahead and is the clear leader here (65 of 70 and green rated). Sauter (62 of 72) is a great back-up but has been as consistent as Little. The plan is to redshirt Raymond Anderson, the Soph from Michigan (58 /68) and hope we can stay healthy. Unheralded Walter Holmes a TN native (55 / 65) would be the emergency QB.
Little commands a 73 and 79 passing skills which is 10 pts above the rest. It was his work ethic that was always called into question (75 vs 90 for the other QB's on the roster)

RB We have 4 "green rated" backs, so solid depth of very good backs - just not a standout to carry us (no pun intended). Miller is the senior (66/73) and plenty fast (73). He has gained 1000 yards so far in his career. Many scouts knock his instincts which has held him back (35). Glossen also a senior (65/75), also not a very instinctful runner (33), but has the ability to break tackles. Max Malinchak is the fastest back on the team (81) and once he can harness his skills that facet alone will make him a very exciting player to watch. He is a Soph and we have high hopes for him down the road (overall 66 / 76). The best all-round back is Juqua Berry (68 / 77). He is also a Soph but no real stand-out qualities. 45 speed, 59 instincts (his best attribute), 89 work ethic. If he can continue to improve, I'd expect him to be a workhorse. The 2 freshmen recruits grade out fairly low (51/63 and 52/67) so hoping they take advantage and learn behind the 4 Horsemen

FB 2 solid guys here - Jr M. George is 'green" (64/72) while Soph C.Scott is yellow (63/74). Both men average over 10 yards a carry in their careers, and are a brute force when it comes to 3rd and short. We can expect to work them into the game plan early and often.

WR Hannibal Semple is our star here. The converted RB has blazing 89 speed. 66 hands, 56 route running adds up to 65/74 overall. Orduna, Hunter, and Browning give us 3 other good targets (all 61 of 69). May be enough to keep future star Kline Reed on the bench with a redshirt (and most likely a transfer) - he is 55 of 77.

TE another strength of this team. Newcomer, Juco Jr Keith Porter is a solid blue chipper (77 of 84). Great hands and an excellent blocker - in fact picked by scouts to be the top run blocker in the nation. He will have senior Lamar Miller backing him up. (68 of 79). This pushes Freddie Leo to the bench and possible redshirt (64/79). IF leo will just stay with us, this extra year of development will help him a lot

OL Rutledge and Madise anchor the line (68 of 78), but talent drops off after them. Hopefully a couple other guys will develop into the 60's. Lot of these guys have 70+ potential, but languish in the high 50's. As a whole, they are better pass blockers than run blockers.

DL Skip Blair is the lone senior DE. He hasn't quite lived up to his potential (62 of 80), but had 10 sacks for the Vols last year. The interior is anchored by Burke, a Soph. (68 of 74). He'll have some guys projected to one day play on Sundays helping him out.

LB Linebacker has long been a strength for this team. Dave Woodall is back for his senior season. He was the #2 ILB when he came to UT, and he has been nothing short of spectacular for us and should become the all-time tackle leader for the team. 69 of 81 rating = Green and if he can continue to develop he could end up Blue. Ross, Kemp, and Tino rate in the low 60's but can be adequate on the outside for us

CB Dodril and Alexander, both green, can both be shut down corners. Decent speed and scary strength.

Safety Ford and Thomas give us some experience (65/75) in the deep slots. 3 solid frosh coming in and also JR Johnson backing them up, we could eventually have the best DB's in the nation

Special Teams
Courtney Johnson has fans excited (83 of 86). The Soph replaces Locket who was all world but missed a lot of key kicks last year. If Johnson gets on a roll early, the fans will rally to him big time. 97 leg strength and 84 accuracy give us reason to hope. Mark Anderson (65 of 68) is a good punter (green) - avg 42 yards per punt last year. The coach expects him to be one of the most consistent punters in the SEC.

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Looking at the season ahead, we lined up a tough schedule

Hawaii, LA Tech, and Wisconsin agree to games this year (only Minnesota turned me down, but the Badgers were eager to prove how good they really are and jumped at the chance), plus we travel to West Virginia for the home and home repay from last year - that will be the season opener. Wisconsion is the last game of the season - they are preseason ranked in the top 25/.

Everyone knows we have good talent this year, but the SEC is stacked top to bottom - and we are projected 6th. Board would love a top 10 finish to the season (somehow I think a top 10 ranking would require finishing higher than 6th in the SEC!)

Experts opinion on how our season might go:
The talented Offensive Line has been inconsistent - if they can get it together anchored by Eric Madise, we should be able to put up some pts. MLB Woodall will be the standout on defense. The DBs have improved every year and this could be a breakout season for the defense. We just need to be consistent and play smart.
If he stays healthy, Woodall should pass Raymond Erickson as the all-time tackle leader for the Vols

We'll find out what we are made of very soon, as the first game is West Virginia. Vols ranked #25, WVa is #30

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Tennessee vs West Virginia

The Vols get the running game going early and FB Scott gives them a quick TD lead. Mountaineers mounted a couple drives - one stopped by an INT and the other ends in a FG. Little is rang up trying a pass and fumbles giving WVU great field position, but our defense stood tall and holds them to a FG. Sauter replaces Little for a couple series so he can clear cobwebs. Result: Sauter goes down with a groin injury and back-up running back Glossen breaks a clavicle. Little comes back and moves the Vols to FG range where they connect from 33 yards out (15 yard line). Defense gets us the ball back but the drive stalls on the 30 yard line. We attempt a fake FG on 4th and 2, but come up just short. After a 3 and out punt, Vols get the ball on the 20 with just under 2 minutes to go in the half. Thoughts of running out the clock were erased after a nice pass to Browning. Little is sacked but hurries the team to the line and lofts a nice deep ball the Charles Hunter who races 52 yards for a score as the whistle sounds!!

Vols take 17-6 half-time lead. We have dominant stats in all areas but the key one is 12 first downs to 4 and 222 total yards to 78. Fullback Scott is the surprise leading rusher with 37 yards on just 3 carries. Dissappointed with 5 penalties though.
3rd qtr starts with turmoil as the WR is hit and fumbles allowing WVU to get another FG. Then after WVU misses another FG attempt, the Vols are called for holding which allows them another chance and a TD this time (plus 2 pt conversion). Penalties and mistakes are costing us big time. Vols finally get a good drive going now with the score tied 17-17. However it stalls at the 10 and Courtney Johnson our all-american kicker sends the ball wide right!! ARGH! I've never seen a team that just laid down and quit like this. WVU marches down to start the 4th qtr and gets another TD to take the lead. Vols drive goes nowhere. Defense holds them to a FG att that is wide left - alright...no wait, illegel substitution is called (where have I seen that before?!) WVU gets another try a little closer and drills it. Little throws 2 picks, then gets a pretty much meaningless 54 TD strike to TE Porter to cut the lead to 3 with a few ticks left on the clock. WVU recovers the onside kick and steal the win from us 24-27.

stats: We end up leading first downs 19-15, total yards 404-239. Little ends game 19/31 for 288 yards. 2 TD and 2 INT. 37 rushes for 99 yards total. Rutledge had 3 pancakes, Yates gave up 3 sacks.and we lost 3 fumbles. On Defense, FS Ford has 6 tackles. Woodall with 5 including two stuffs. DT Hamlin has 3 big sacks, Johnson, Rogers, and Abraham with 1 sack apiece. 5 turnovers and 9 crucial penalties for 75 yards ruined what would have been a good game, and cost us dearly. Not a good start to the year, but as we get adjusted to the new offensive schemes, hopefully we'll get it together and bounce back

in other top 25 games, Michigan State routs #24 Notre Dame 41-20 and #23 Texas Tech holds on to defeat Marshall 24-19

4 starters and 4 key reserves get some extra study hall hours to try to keep them eligible. Sauter could be ready to play if needed, Glossen is out for sure with the fractured clavicle

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Tennessee vs Hawaii

The Vols return home after a heart-breaking loss to West Virginia.

Barry and George get 3 yards each on the first drive before Little is hit and fumbles the ball away! The Dave Woodall show holds the Rainbow Warriors to a 43 yd FG. Hawaii holds our anemic offense and tacks on another FG. Again we punt and watch their "so-called pitiful offense" drive down to the 4 yard line before the defense got fired up. 3 times we stuff them in the backfield so the 40 yard FG seems like a minor cause for celebration. However the 3 touchdown favorite Vols find themselves behind 3 FG's. Finally with a minute to go in the half the offense finds a pulse - Little leads the Vols downfield and we get a 35 yard FG, but its not enough to quiet the restless fans who boo their performance - and to add insult, Hawaii drives 80 yards to get the FG back as the half ends. Fans boo the Vols into the lockerroom - trailing 3-12

This video played at halftime which reminded both fans and players alike what the tradition of Tennessee was all about - and that is truly much more than just a game to a lot of folks:

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The fans seemed energized by the halftime show, and the players fed off that energy. Both defenses played lights out in the 3rd qtr. Senior QB Little seemed confused by what they were throwing at him and often took to scrambling and running for short gains as the receivers could not get open. We tried running behind our big line with minimal success.
With several players for both teams going down to injuries on the slippery field, our depth maybe helped change the course of the game. After a turnover, the Vols drive down with short passes. 4 and 2 on the 7 yard line, trailing 3-12, it wasn't a tough decision to get the "easy" 3. That would put us to within a TD of the lead anyway. Hawaii starts to drive against our tiring defenders but Brunson's pass is picked off by Kemp who returns it to the 32. Little promptly returns the favor - ARGH - but wait! Hawaii is called for roughing the passer and we have new life!! 1st and 10 at our 40. Little hits TE Miller for a 30 yard streak, then follows it up with another 30 yard bomb to Ordona!! Vols take the lead 13-12 with the XP. 7:17 left in the game. DE Skip Blair sacks Brunson on 4th down to get the ball back for the Vols with 4:14 left. We decide to feed them a steady dose of our running backs. The power running game works to perfection as we drive the ball to the 13 yard line and let the clock expire. It may have been ugly, but our team battled back to get the win 13-12.

Stats: both teams had 16 first downs. We outgain 326 to 301 (We have 141 yards rushing led by Barry with 19 carries / 82 yards). Little goes all the way at QB, 17 of 27 for 185 yards. Favorite target was Ordona who had 7 catches for 75 yards. Thomas was the defensive star of the game with 9 tackles and an INT. Woodall adds 6 tackles. We had sacks from Burke, Blair, and Carroll

In other key games: #16 Auburn defeats #22 Ga Tech 37-16, LSU knocks Notre Dame out of the top 25 28-16. Alabama upsets #10 Oregon State 17-16. #19 North Carolina destroys #13 Nebraska 37-16. #20 Oklahoma loses at #14 Ohio State. Michigan and Southern Cal win laughers to remain atop the rankings.

Injury report from the last game: QB Sauter is battling a hernia and should continue to sit. TE Porter (Broken finger), OT Sweeney (muscle strain), OG Rentzel (Hamstring pull), C- Young (tennis elbow) are all cleared to play if needed. Other good news is that NO Vols were suspended for acedemics. We should be pretty much 100% (minus Sauter and Glossen) for LA Tech

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Tennessee vs LA TECH
Vols are 26 pt favorites

Just what the doctor ordered! Vols take care of business this time to win 44-6/ We outgain them 599 - 189. Little 21/28 for 341 yds and 3 TDs. Holmes came in for mop-up duty and notches his own TD pass. Barry adds 125 yds on the ground on 25 runs. Defensively, Woodall 9 tackles and a 73 yard INT return for a TD. Burke 3 sacks, Hamlin and Kemp add one apiece. Every team in the top 25 won - that's a rarity in itself

WE have 3 ranked games in a row coming up - #18 Ole Miss, at #19 Georgia, and #7 Florida before getting a "breather" at unranked Alabama

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#28 Tennessee Vols vs #18 Ole Miss Rebels

For once someone else was bit by the penalty bug and it sure helped keep the Vols alive in the game early as Ole Miss miscuses helped keep drives alive and opened the door for second chances. Ole Miss have bluechippers at QB (White) and RB (Johnson) behind a very strong line. The Vol defense swarmed to the ball all day and managed to keep the play in front of them.

Rebels have a nice drive going to start the game but Woodall tatoos the WR who puts the ball on the turf. We pick up some yards on the ground and are faced with a 4th and 2 inside Rebel territory. Coach Minors gambles early and it pays off as Semple catches a pass for 14 yards...he fumbles but Porter was right there to recover for the Vols. We go back to the ground, get 3rd and long - facemask penalty makes it manageable. Another run, another face mask and a first down! Sauter is showing the effects of the groin pull and Little injures his elbow early, so unheralded Walter Holmes enters the game. He promptly hits Semple on a crossing pattern for SIX!!! Vols take the early 7-0 lead. We are fed a steady diet of Johnson who makes several defenders look silly as he runs at will; however, a couple penalties stall the drive and Ole Miss punts. Vols stay on the ground to try and rest the already weary defense. Penalties keep the drive alive, but several missed blocks inside the Orange Zone force us to kick a FG for a 10-0 lead. Johnson again picks up yards in big chunks, but he is taking a pounding on this drive even fumbling at one point. Rebels then go to the air to rest their star, but Alexander steps in front of a bad pass and picks it off at the 7 yard line!! A good mix of runs and passes get the ball out to midfield where again the Vols are faced with 4th and short. Again, the coach rolls the dice and hands to the big lumbering fullback to just noses the ball past the first down marker!! The Vols are rotating 3 RB's and 2 FB's to wear down the Ole Miss defense and it seems to be working so far. With the ball on the 1 yard line, our offensive line crumbles under pressure and our backs are stuffed in the backfield. Johnson connects with a 22 yard FG and it is 13-0. With just under 3 minutes in the half, Ole Miss puts together a long steady drive, using their timeouts along the way - at the 2 yard line they attempt a FG but Terry Cunningham breaks thru and blocks the kick!!! Walk-on LB Alex Brunet recovers the football and we keep Ole Miss off the scoreboard!!!! What a swing in momentum!!! UT is content to run out the last 33 seconds and take their lead to the lockerroom.

Happy to report we do not come out flat after the break. Our defense pressures Ole Miss, but a punt buries us at the 5 yard line - 3 plays and punt ourselves. I rally the defense and tell them to make another stand - Burke hears me loud and clear....on the first play he plasters Johnson who coughs up the ball....Burke picks it up and runs 58 yards for the score!!! We attempt a 2-pt conversion, but it fails. 19-0. Rotate in some 2nd teamers on defense trying to rest the starters for what could be a fast finish. Couple go down with injuries, but we hold them to another punt. Ole Miss is starting to show defeat in their eyes as they cannot get untracked. Holmes continues to look sharp with his short to medium range passing attack. RB's pick up 8-9 yards on first down, the Fullback converts the first downs (often with 9 yard runs of their own!) Then maybe the most bizzare chain of events I've seen in a while. As we drive toward FG range, Porter is called for a false start. Johnson misses the 37 yard FG. After a punt, Johnson misses a 35 yard FG (from 17) White throws an INT to our SS Johnson (no relation), The Vols drive and Johnson misses a 52 yard FG (falls short) but wait...illegal substitution makes it 4th and 1. What do we do, FB up the middle for 3 yards and the first down. Few more runs puts ball on 27 yard line. Johnson trots out and shanks another wide left!!! Hold on!! The defense was offsides!!! Spot the ball on the 22, 4th and 6. Do you have confidence in your kicker or go for it again?? Today, Coach Minors showed all the confidence in the world for his talented kicker. He told to give us the 3 TD lead - and this time ladies and gentlemen Johnson kicks the ball true. Vols go up 22-0 with 8 minutes to go in the game (poor Johnson though - misses 4 FG attempts before finally connecting - though a couple of them will not show up in the record book. If he missed that one too, he might have never seen the playing field again). Defense was exhausted by the end but they held up their end of the bargain. Ole Miss made one last galliant effort with pass plays eating up 20 yards at a time. The "red carpet" defense was designed to keep all the plays in front and trade yards for time. Rebels used all their time outs and got inside the 10 yard line. Another pass play to the middle of the field - tackled and time just ran out!!! UT Vols pull off a huge upset 22-0 - most proud of the fact we shut out a top 10 ranked offense that was loaded with talent!!!

Stats: UT 27 first downs to 17. We were 6 of 16 on 3rd down and 3-3 on 4th down conversions. Ole Miss 6 of 14 and 1-3 on 4th down conversions. Total yards very even. 378 to 372. We outgain 211 to 96 on the ground which gave us a 35:22 to 24:46 edge in time of possession. Their all-star QB White was 24/39 for 276 yards, but 2 INT's/ Johnson carried 21 times for 97 yards. Walter Holmes came on to rally the Vols and lead our offense quite well, connecting on 15 of 16 passes, 144 yards, 1 TD and no turnovers (Satuer was 2 for 10 before being benched. Little completed the only pass he threw. Let's hope he's ok). Barry 20 carries for 64 yards. Miller added 52, Malinchak 42, FB George - 32, FB Scott - 21. Johnson and Woodall led the defense with 7 tackles each, both also causing a turnover. We didn't get a lot of pressure on the QB (1 hurry, 1 sack - both by Chris Rogers) but kept him contained and decent coverage downfield on his receivers. Ole Miss has one of the best OL's we'll see all year with all "green-rated". The post-game call-in show will have lots of good comments as the team played well on both sides of the ball and fans can each have their own heros of the game

In other games around the SEC: Bama beats Vandy 30-23 in DOUBLE OT!!! Bama tied the game 16-16 with a 40 yard FG with 3 seconds left in regulation! WOW. #7 Florida edges #8 LSU 31-30. Top 25: #25 Ga Tech beats #10 Clemson 33-31. #3 Va Tech knocks Miami out of top 25 with 28-17 win (and moves down in the ranking themselves as a result to #5, go figure). #5 FLorida State over #13 UNC 31-23. Missouri upsets #16 Nebraska 24-17. #24 Texas Tech wallops #6 Texas 44-22. #1Michigan rolled over Notre Dame in their annual rivalry game 31-14

In the new poll, Michigan retains their top spot in the media poll, but leap-frogged by Florida in the Coaches poll (jump from #7). So it's Michigan, Purdue, USC, Florida State, Va Tech Auburn, Florida, Boston College, Washington State, Texas (yes the team that got crushed this week) - Tennessee #25. Coaches have: Florida, Michigan, USC, Florida state, Va Tech, Purdue, Auburn, Texas, Ohio State, Clemson. Tennessee #21 (ahead of Ole Miss who falls to #22 here). Next week I look forward to Purdue vs Ohio State, Auburn vs Ole Miss, Va Tech vs Ga Tech, as well as Tennessee at #16 Georgia

Injury report has some critical issues as starting strong safety Bryon Thomas suffered severe spinal trauma late in the game against Ole Miss and will miss several months. DE Rogers had a root canal and should be ready to play. Sauter, Glossen, Rentzel and a couple other minor players are progressing well and are cleared to play. Little's wrist injury appears to be worse than first thought - he will not be at 100%, so we may be forced to play Holmes again. If he steps up like he did last week, that won't be a problem. But let's face it, there is quite a bit of talent drop-off from Little to Holmes. Watching film, a couple QB hurries were added to Machado and Hamlin. But both were credit with 4 missed tackles so that sort of offset the euphoria they might otherwise feel. We also are critical of 11 missed blocks by our OL. Some by guys forced into playing time due to injury and fatigue, but still that is a high number that needs to be addressed. We only had 4 good blocks and 2 pancakes - but only 1 sack and only 1 penalty, so overall it was a good clean effort.

Looking ahead, UGA is very balanced - #17 offense / #16 defense. UT is #31 offense / #13 defense. Our front 7 only allows 78 rushing yards a game (#14 in nation). Uga is ranked #1 by the computer polls

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#25 Tennessee vs #16 Georgia

Looking ahead, UGA is very balanced - #17 offense / #16 defense. UT is #31 offense / #13 defense. Our front 7 only allows 78 rushing yards a game (#14 in nation). Uga is ranked #1 by the computer polls
The Bulldogs are 5 pt favorites between the hedges

First quarter, the Vols held their own against the top ranked Computer team in the land. But after we take a 3-0 lead, the Bulldogs get untracked and roll for 2 big drives and take the lead 14-3. Tennessee defense struggled to keep up but then a couple turnovers kept the game from becoming a rout. True Freshman Compton playing in his first game at strong safety intercepted a pass. Then on the next drive a big hit and fumble gave us the ball inside the 20 with a minute to go. Vols take a couple shots at the end zone before settling for a FG. down 8, I felt ok. However, a 45 yard KR followed by 15 yard penalty for piling on allowed Georgia to erase that as the half expired. We go to the lockerroom trailing 17-6.
Compton got his second INT of the game giving us a shot at another FG, but UGA rolls for their own FG and a TD. as the 4th qtr starts, the Vols trail 9-27. Our Orange Zone struggles continue, but this late in the game we gamble and go for 6 instead of 3...however, we are stuffed. Woodall gets us the ball back and this time George, the big FB, barrels into the end zone to cut the lead. 16-27. GA recovers the onside kick and runs out the clock. We were pretty much man-handled but overall a gutsy performance

Our highly regarded run defense got chewed up big time allowing 234 rushing yards!!!! (more than the entire season combined!) Their RB Monk had 118 yards, and the QB Moore added 104 yards passing. Total yards, UGA had 343 to our 277. Starting QB Sauter once again struggled and put the game in the hands of Walter Holmes who went 10 of 19 for 118 yards. None of our RB's got untracked as they stuffed them in the backfield time and time again. Defensive "stars" include Kemp, Ford, and Woodall with 6 tackles each. Compton with 2 INT's and Hamlin picks up a sack.

In other games around the SEC: Vandy whips Arkansas 34-26! Kentucky over SC 20-13. Top 20 match up, Ole Miss beats Auburn 33-30. NC State upsets Clemson. GA TECH destroys #5 Va Tech 51-6. Wisconsin moves into the top 25 by knocking off #21 Penn State.

Tennessee drops to #27 in media poll, and couple slots to #24 in Coaches poll Georgia is replaced atop the computer poll by Florida who just happens to be our next opponent! Out of the frying pan and into the fire!

Next week: When's the last time you saw Kentucky favored over Alabama in something other than Basketball?? They are 3 pt favorites vs the Tide in their big home game. #13 Georgia vs #16 Ole Miss. Other big games include Michigan vs Michigan State, #22 Oklahoma vs #11 Texas, #4 Ohio State vs #25 Penn State

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#24 Tennessee vs #1 Florida
Gators have a high powered offense that averages over 500 yards a game and are 10 pt favorites in Knoxville

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It's a night game in Knoxville and Neyland Stadium is rocking as the fans are hyped up!

This looked like it could be a long game as on the first play, a short pass completion to Hunter is fumbled and Florida returns it to the 5 - and they score on their first play. On the 2nd series we go 3 and out, but this time the defense holds them as well. The Vol offense is sparked by the return of QB Rob Little and puts together a nice little 10 play drive capped off by a Little to Orduna 46 yard TD pass. Florida gets a nice KO return, then catches their WR on a crossing pattern, but a BIG HIT by Tinoisamoa puts the ball on the turf - who picks it up? WOODALL!! and Dave races 42 yards to give the Vols a 14-7 lead! Florida's offense continues to chew up big chunks of yardage and gets to first and goal from the 1. But the Vol Defense bucked up and stood tall, stuffing them twice. On 3rd and goal, the Gators scramble but stopped again at the one foot yard and they settle for a FG. Tennessee was fired up after the defensive stand and after a penalty respond with a 82 yard post from Little to Hunter for another TD!! 21-10. Florida goes 3 and out once again, and the Vols rack up a 14 play drive eating up about 5 minutes and cap it off with a George dive from the FB position. 28-10. A rare mistake - Int right before the half lets Florida kick an easy FG. Half time score 28-13

Second half, Florida continues the momentum they gained at the end - march downfield with ease to score. I had hoped that late FG might help keep our boys focused. Gators attempt a 2pt conversion, but the pass is wild so we keep 28-19 lead. At the end of the 3rd qtr, we extend our lead to 34-19 on a pair of FG's. Compton comes up with another INT, but the play is negated by a holding penalty - that took the wind our of our sails as Florida then scored on a quick strike (34-25 after another failed conversion). Vols look a little nervous as they come out - almost like they see everything crumbling - and sure enough put the ball on the ground putting the Gators in good position again. The defense bent and allowed them inside the ten but again made a goal line stand. FG makes it 34-28 with 6:40 to go. The coaching staff huddled up the offense and fired them up - "This is where you put your names in the history books. They are tiring, and you've proven all game that you can drive on them. O-line take over the trenches and open some holes. Receivers get open and let's put this thing away. It wasn't that easy - but a couple 3rd down conversions kept the chains moving for an 19 play drive - capped off by Miller bursting over the left guard for a score. 40-28 and only 15 seconds left. Burke sacks the Gator QB to end the game. What an exclamation point!!!

Victory over the top ranked team in the nation - without a doubt, the BIGGEST win in our history! The spark was Little returning to the line-up against Doctor's orders. He went 15 of 18 for 223 yards and 2 TD's (we'll overlook the one int). Holmes helped out with 6 of 11 and 61 yards, but a costly INT> Hunter hauled in 6 catches for 119 yards (star of the game!). The speedster Semple was kept in check, only 4 catches for 21 yards. Proud of our offensive line with 3 pancakes, 2 KRB, and no sacks allowed! Woodall was a beast with 10 tackles, 2 stuffs on goal line plays, and the TD fumble recovery. Blair, Machado, and Burke had sacks, and they kept pressure on the QB most of the day. Exciting news for Vol fans - Courtney Johnson was 5 of 5 on FG's today!

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In other key games: Michigan lost to Michigan state 23-38. LSU whipped Vandy. Ole Miss lost to GA who jump to #4 in the polls. Texas edges Oklahoma 34-31.

Hold onto your hats…Kentucky 13…Alabama 12

Now, I'd expect to get some love in the polls, but we actually fall a few spots in the media poll (34 votes). However, the coaches move us up to #20. Southern Cal, Florida State, and Ohio State claim the top 3 spots in both polls. Florida plays Georgia next week. A Gator win could make a 4-way tie for first place in the SEC East. UGA win will have them in front with us chasing. (a look ahead, Lee Corso is calling this his upset special -- the undefeated Dogs are 2 pt UNDERDOGS at home against the Gators! That should fire them up!)

the next game for Tennessee -- Alabama!!
Vols are a slight 2 pt favorite in the game, with slight statisical edges in offense, defense, and special teams. But this IS the Crimson Tide, and this is the 3rd Saturday in October. Did Alabama look past Kentucky last week? I'm sure they will be more than fired up after that loss. We are coming off the highs of beating the #1 team in the nation and many wonder if the Vols can get psyched up for a second week in a row

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Tennessee vs Alabama
other games this week: #5 Georgia vs #11 Florida -- Floridawon 55-6. That gives us in 3 way tie with Gators and Dogs atop SEC East; #6 LSU vs #21 Ole Miss -- LSU won 30-10

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the proverbial 3rd Saturday in October - it's Old Testament hate between these two age old rivals. Looked like a defensive struggle in the opening series, but Alabama got untracked first with a couple long pass plays. Once they got inside the red zone, the Dave Woodall show stepped up and held them to a FG. On the ensuing kickoff, Dodril ran it down to the 21 yard line!! After a run play was stuffed in the backfield, Little set up a screen pass to our superstar TE, Keith Porter who picked his way thru the defense and dove into the endzone to put us ahead 7-3. At some point, QB Little is shaken up (no report of injury, he just no longer shows up in the depth chart!). Bama gets another FG and our offense sputters (much like the REAL orange when Bray was out). Bama drives against the defense but Alexander puts on a BIG HIT! DT Burke picks up the loose ball and the 300+ pounder rambles 75 yards for a TD (his second of the year)!! UT leads 14-6 with 9 minutes left in the first half. On their next play, The Tide attempts the same draw play, this time it's Willie Mays who puts the ball of the turf after a big hit from LB Kemp! CB Dodrill scoops it up for the Vols!! Sauter comes in at QB - he has plenty of time in the pocket and finds Orduna for a 22 yard pick-up down to the 5 yard line. But that's where we struggle - actually moving backward on 2 plays before settling for a FG. Alabama gets those 3 pts back as the clock expires. Half time score 17-9 in favor of the Vols.

In the 2nd half, our offense continues to struggle agains the Crimson Tide. Bama misses a pair of FG's - then both teams trade FG's. Our offensive struggles are legendary but this is crazy as Bama has a 2-1 TOP advantage. The tiring defense gets 2 more turnovers - a fumble to stop a scoring drive. Then FS Ford anticipates a screen pass, steps in front of the RB to intercept and race 32 yards for a TD! 27-12 for the Vols! And that is your final score

Just how ugly a game was it? The player of the game goes to the OFFENSIVE GUARD FOR ALABAMA (he had 4 key run blocks and 2 pancakes). Alabama led every key stat except turnovers, and that was the ballgame. They had 22 first downs to our 8! Outgained 404 to 190. outrushed 209-66, outpassed 195-124. Time of possession ended up 36 to 24 (as we were able to get a few runs at the end to run out the clock) The difference in the game is that we held them to FG's - and we recovered 3 fumbles (1 for a TD) and had 1 int (also for a TD). Take away those 14 defensive points and this is a whole different ballgame (and don't forget the long kick-off return that set up the first touchdown for the Vols). We are a totally different club without Little running the offense at QB. of course that doesn't excuse our defense allowing their RB (Mays) and QB to BOTH run for almost 100 yards against us. I kept rotating players in to stay as fresh as possible. Our leaders for the game? Holmes was 6 of 13 for 56 yards (Sauter 4 of 8 for 41). Glosson had 5 carries for 20 yards; Miller 10 for 18 yards.Woodall anchored the defense with 11 tackles, a sack, and 2 stuffs. Kemp 8 tackles and the big forced fumble.Hamlin had 2 sacks. After all is said and done, we did what enough to get the W. Our first win over Alabama so it's time to celebrate...smoke a few cigars....and sing a song about how much we love the state of Alabama....

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Tennessee (5-2) vs Arkansas (5-2)
Vols are 7 point favorites at home as our 9th ranked pass defense is expected to slow down the high powered Razorback passing attack

The Vols spot Arkansas a 10 pt lead thanks to the turnover bug early. But we regroup and are able to tie the game 10-10 at the half. We changed up our game plan and decided to run the ball right at their young D-line (instead of futile passing into their experienced D-backs). That strategy worked as Barry picked up 152 yards and Glossen added 93. The 2nd half was all Tennessee as we completely shut down the Razorback offense and controlled the clock with our ground game. Final score 24-10 in favor of the Vols.

Barry was star of the game with 152 rushing yards, 58 receiving yards (1 catch), and a TD. Charles Hunter becomes the all-time TN receiving leader with 4 catches, 40 yards, and a TD (passing Danny Sickles in all 3 catagories. Danny was 3rd team All-Sec from 2006-07). We outgained Arkie 477 to 231 in an almost reversal from the Bama game (we had 5 fumbles, losing 3 but that only served to keep the score closer than it should have been. Ford, Johnson, and Woodall each had 6 tackles. Woodall and Rogers had sacks. Dave Woodall seems to be a shoo-in to become the 4th man to be inducted into the Volunteer hall of fame (not sure how the selections are made though).


In other big news, Auburn knocks off Georgia 32-6, so now it's a tie between Florida and Tennessee which we should have the tie-breaker!

no love in the polls - the media actually took away votes and now have 2 teams we beat ahead of us (ole miss and arkansas) in the others receiving votes. Drop 1 spot in Coach's poll to #19. Air Force leapfrogged us after a stellar open date performance. (?) Hopefully this week, we will have Little at 100% and we can open up the offense against the Kentucky Wildcats. However, Kentucky is no pushover, 5-2 record and a victory over Alabama.

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Tennessee (6-2) vs Kentucky (5-2)
The Crockett-Boone Bowl

59,307 come out in Lexington to watch in a light rain -- Wildcats take the opening kickoff and march the length of the field to score with ease! Vols mix it up to answer that score and looks like we could have a shoot-out. Teams alternate playing good defense with playing no defense. 14-14 with time running out in the half - UK drives and kicks a FG. UT runs a 1 minute drill but miss a 55 yard FG. Cats take a 14-17 lead into the lockerroom.

Tennesse comes out fired up in the 2nd and drive the ball down kentucky's throat - Glossen dives in for his 2nd TD of the game and the lead. The defense looks to be as fired up as well - Burke delivers his 2nd crushing sack of the game forcing a punt. 3rd and short, Vols usually go to the FB in this situation but mix it up and throws a 47 yard TD Bomb to Semple against their stacked line and all out blitz!! Kentucky goes to the air to play catch-up....their WR gets a step on our back up CB...but Hamlin bursts thru their line for his 2nd sack of the game forcing another punt!

Vols go into 4th QTR leading 28-17. Kentucky is not done yet, scoring quickly on couple big plays to open the last stanza. 2 pt conversion is no good....28-23. Vols go 3 and out, but manage to force the same from KY. Defenses bow up and it is nail biting down to the end. Vols fail to run out the clock, punt and watch a return to midfield. Vols fans everywhere worried that the longest winning streak in the nation against a single team may be in jeopardy - but UK's first pass hits SS Compton right in the chest!!! He gets his 3rd INT of the season and all but seals the deal. Vols run a couple plays while Cats use their time outs. First down - and Little takes a knee and Vols return home with another very hard fought victory over their Beer Barrel rivals. 28-23 final score

Game stats: First downs: 30-20. Total Yards 424 to 385. Vols outrush (139-102) and out pass (285-283), completing 10 more passes on the same number of attempts.
Rob Little 25 of 33 for 251 yards, 1 TD. Glosson 14 carries for 72 yards and 2 TD's. Our line blocked well - only 1 sack; 3 KRB and 6 pancakes. Defense had some stars today too - none bigger than Woodall who had 9 tackles, a stuff and a hurry. we had 6 sacks (Burke and Hamlin 2 each Kemp and Blair add 1 each). 2 Forced fumbles but we didn't recover either - however, Compton grabs the big INT to end the game.

In other games: #3 Florida whips Vandy. Georgia loses again (23-20 to SC). Big game of the week: #12 Cal beats #1 USC 47-27
All this activity moves the Vols to #26 in media poll (52 votes. Ole Miss has 80 and is ranked 25th - even though we have a better record and beat them!) In the coach's poll, we drop 3 spots to #22 - behind Georgia who just lost. I don't get the polls sometimes. Cal moves up to #4, one spot ahead of USC who they destroyed. The computers give the Vols a little more love, ranking us #11, and we are #5 RPI

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this game against Kentucky was a much better one that what we witnessed on the field Saturday. ugh! those were two awful offenses on the field.
The real streak ends, but mine continues. bow your heads for a moment of silence

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Tennessee (7-2) vs South Carolina (3-4)

DE Chris Rodgers and CB Keith Dodril are saddled with injuries - they could play but doctors advise giving them more time to recover. Still no chance SS Thomas will return
Vols are 8 point favorites against a team coming off an emotional win over Georgia

53,232 come out to watch their home team get their butts handed to them!! SC QB missed his first 9 passes before settling down. By then it was 17-0 in favor of the Vols. 20-0 at halftime, and 33-0 before SC gets on the scoreboard. UT was clicking on all cylanders and got a chance to play some reserves in the 2nd half. Final Score 39-10 in favor of the good guys.

Rob Little (QB) was star of the game, hitting 25 of 34 for 306 yards and 2 TD's (Orduna and Hunter). Barry had 13 carries for 56 yards, 1 TD. Glossen 9 for 52 yards. Hunter was the favorite target, 8 catches for 101 yards. Porter also 8 catches for 51 yards. We held the SC star WR Chris Speedie to only 37 yards on 5 catches. Woodall led the D with 6 tackles, 2 stuffs. The other normal leaders were quiet, but Tank Eason came up big with 2 sacks. Carroll and Machado each had a sack as well.

We move up a spot in the media poll to #25 (right behind a 5-4 Minnesota), and shoot up to #18 in coach's poll. Next game, we will be 8 pt favorites against Vandy at home.

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Tennessee (8-2) vs Vanderbilt (4-5)

104,400 fill Neyland Stadium - as is often the case, the Commodores came to play as they step up their game against the cross-state rivals. The defenses seem to fold up on both sides as injuries took their toll. Final Score; Tennessee wins 46-44 as Johnson kicks the game winning FG with 22 seconds left!! Another nail-biter with Vandy.

We outgain them 525-463, out rush 188-29. But they found the holes in our 4th ranked pass defense 424-337. The QB injury bug struck again, as a result each QB managed to throw 1 TD pass (Little had 2). Glossen and Barry each picked up rushing TD's

We move up to 20/15 in the polls. Florida jumps into the #1 spot in the media poll - AHEAD OF undefeated Ohio State who drops to 6th after a lackluster game against Iowa (22-17). USC loses to Washington (27-37) and doesn't budge in the polls, remaining the #5 spot which has to anger Ohio State who fell below them!!

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Senior Day
#17 Tennessee (9-2) vs #9 Wisconsin (9-2)

Vols are 2 point underdogs against 3rd place team in the Big 10. The 3 top players from the Midwest want to come for a visit during the game. We've had decent success recruiting the midwest and a win over the Big 10 power could open even more doors.

Senior Day - and what a wide range of emotions as players come thru the T for the final time. WR's Orduna and Hunter, offensive linemen who have grown up before our eyes this year (Yates, Rutledge, Madise). The cheers became deafening when maybe the greatest Linebacker to wear Orange, Dave Woodall, raced out. And what about Rob Little - who can forget those last minute heroics that have graced his career - coming into several games despite injuries to lead us to a winning drive (against UK, Vandy, and others). Then the tears as the video screen lit up showing SS Bryon Thomas who is hospitalized with spinal trauma, maybe never to walk again. He closed it out by whispering with all his might "Go Big Orange!!" and the fans replied as Rocky Top Plays

And what a game 104,400 fans got to witness. Wisconsin revs up its high powered attack right off the bat, rolling down down only to settle for a fg. UT sputters, punts and another drive that is cut short by Carl Compton's INT. The Vols get a little drive going, gambles on 4th down at the 40 and fails. Badgers make them pay - drive, 4 yard TD pass and Vols trail 0-10 starting the 2nd qtr. It was time to pull out all stops and open up the offense or risk getting blown out. Some short passes and runs get us into FG range - Johnson connects from 55 yards! The defense forced a punt. Holmes replaced Little at QB to shake things up after TE Porter went down with an injury. He moved the Vols down the field with crisp passes. Malichak races 23 yards getting us into the Orange Zone, and from there Glossen dives in for a TD and the game is tied with 4 minutes left in the half. 3 and out, Vols get the ball back at midfield after a short punt! with 2 minutes to go, Wisconsin plays deep - and we had a plan - 2 good runs for 28 yards had them on their heels. Button hook for 14, then Little finds Glossen on a dump off and he scampers to the end zone!! 17-10. Only 48 seconds, but Badgers hit a 46 yard streak on 3rd and 3 to get into FG range. Half time score 17-13

In the 2nd half, Badgers sack Little forcing a punt; hit another 46 yard pass and then run the ball over us to take the lead. Vols respond by mixing it up, then Little heaves it deep to Ordona…51 yard TD strike, what a great pass!! First play from scrimmage after that - Ike Robertson runs 78 yards for the Badgers and they retake the lead. The defenses owned the rest of Q3 until Little finds Hunter on a 48 yard streak puts us on the 20. Miller is stuffed in backfield for 4 yard loss, but once again Hunter comes up big with a 19 yard reception putting the ball on the goaline as the quarter comes to an end. Malanchak starts the 4th by diving in for 6. The Vols depth is starting wear down the badgers. After a punt, Glossen races 80 yards to put the Vols up 38-27. Wisconsin misses 2 FG's and UT hits theirs. That's how the scoring ends. Final Score 41-27.

STATS: Wisconsin had 578 total yards: 26 of 48 passing for 414 yards; 28 rushes for 164 yards. UT had 519 total yards of offense. 17 of 24 passing for 274 yards; 46 rushes for 245 yards
Star of Game: Senior RB, Chad Glossen, 9 carries for 111 yards, 2 TD's. 1 recpt for 12 yards and 1 TD (3 total TD). We had 6 KRB and 3 pancakes on the line. Ross led all tacklers with 9. Woodall added 6. Sacks by Tank Eason, Rogers, and Blair. Compton picked up an INT, his 4th of the year. He dedicated it to Thomas, the injured SS he replaced midseason.

Vols jump up to #10 in the polls. Top 5 are Florida, Michigan State, Florida State, GA Tech, and Ohio State (all now with 1 loss, as Michigan knocked off the Buckeyes)

we'll look at the postseason awards before going to the SEC Championship game against Auburn

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In rivalry week, #3 Florida State beats #1 Florida knocking the SEC out of the national title game once again. UGA beats GA TECH, S.Car beats Clemson, Auburn whips Bama (who ends season at 4-7) Vols move up to #7 in media poll and will play #19 Auburn in the SEC championship game (who got the tiebreaker over LSU who also finished 6-2)

Offensive POY goes to QB Greg May of Pitt. 3,760 yards, 32 TD and 5 int.
Defensive POY is Tom Rivera of Auburn, 89 tackles, 11 sacks
Coach of Year: Marty Miller of Michigan State 10-1

Vols getting postseason awards:
ALL SEC HONORS
M.George 1st team SEC FB (198 yards, 2TD). Mack Anderson 1st team SEC punter.
2nd Team: OG Madise.
3rd team: C.Johnson (K), Woodall (ILB), Burke (DT) and Johnson (SS)

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#7 Tennessee vs #19 Auburn
for the SEC championship. War Eagles are given the slight edge based on overall talent and stats

the last time we faced Auburn, we got shelacked. The last time (only) time we made the SEC title game we got destroyed by LSU. We are hoping for a better result this year

Vols keep it close. 13-13 half time. 16-16 to end 3rd qtr. Auburn gets a TD to open the 4th. UT responds with a pair of long FG's. After that, Auburn runs out the clock to win 23-22.
Little had 279 yards passing, a couple backs picked up 50 yards each. Madise got 3 pancakes. Woodall gets 10 tackles, and we had 4 sacks. Just not enough to get the win. Our punishment for losing the game is a rematch with Wisconsin in Orlando -- so much for trying to schedule big time teams in the regular season.

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Tennessee vs Wisconsin - the rematch
in the bowl game, Vols jump out to an early lead and hold on. Little 260 yards passing, Barry 130 yards rushing. Woodall only 3 tacklies in his final game wearing orange.
Most important stat- Vols win 27-21. Close out the season 11-3 and ranked #10

Florida is your national champion, beating Michigan State 46-29. In a real shocker, Auburn beats #3 Ohio State who somehow moves UP to #2
The coaches are even bigger idiots, moving LSU up to #2 after they beat #12 Michigan (media has LSU still at #11). SEC will take the extra props though
some strange goings on in the Polls for sure. What a topsy turvy year

Post Season evaluation: We score A for Performance, Recruiting, Exceeding Expectations, Prestige, and overall. We score a B for Talent

Our Prestige improves to 80 (excellent -- seems like I started this diary around 65). The board now expects us to win the SEC and get a BCS bid. Nothing less than top 10 will be acceptable
As expected Woodall joins the Volunteer Hall of Fame: 356 tackles, 9 sacks, 54 stuffs, 4 int.
Good news is he is joined by Eric Madise! The OG had 43 run blocks and 37 pancakes, only allowed 12 sacks and called for holding 6 times -- Eric is ranked 5th all time in SEC for run blocks
5 hall of fame players total pales in comparison to other programs. Hopefully the next wave of recruits will add to this total

Semple passes Sickles for most receiving yards in a season (786 vs 777). His 58 catches this year was the most in a season by a Vol as well. Hunter moved into the #4 spot. Woodall ended up 2nd for tackles in season (105) behind Sandoval's 115 in 2006 (bad thing is Sandoval was the SS, so that meant the other team was getting lots of yards). Hamlin's 10 sacks ties him for 2nd (Coleman's 13 leads the way)

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Graduating senior stars
Little ends up his career as the 2nd ranked QB with a 143 rating (Moran had 143.9). His career passing yards of 6996 is far and away the tops (as most only got a year to play). Little ranked 3rd all-time in SEC for passes, completions, and yards

Hunter and Ordona leave as 1 and 2 on the WR yardage list, but expect to be passed by Semple next year. Hunter has 2151 yards and 18 TD's. Semple 1607 (9 TD). Hunter is tied for 5th for rec TDs

Skip Blair leaves as the all-time sack leader with 22 (returning DT Hamlin has 15), Skip ends up ranked 4th in SEC for career sacks (Williams of GA had 28)

Dave Woodall leaves ranked #6 on the all-time NCAA tackle list with 356. (Rivers of Hawaii had 413 down to Walton of Penn State with 360 at #5) Dave is tied at #7 with 269 solo tackles
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Our offense ranked #31. 25 rushing, #41 passing, #9 points
Defense ranked #22. #39 against Rush #27 against pass, #66 points allowed. Kwame Koman has been here 3 years. Maybe his worst numbers overall yet (esp rush and points)

Budget is 2,515,000. plus we get $117,000 for weekly recruiting
lot of coaching changes and the offers we got were silly considering they were all from mid-level teams in low prestige conferences (Tulane, Florida INT, N.Ill, to name a few)

Special Teams coach Kevin Larson decided to opt out of his contract and see if he could get a bigger paycheck (2nd time he has left me for more money - wonder where he'll end up this year or if he'll get a raise)
We replace him with 46 year Scott Kaspar, a UNC grad with 13 years of experience. He is a great game planner and excellent motivator. Just so-so on scouting and development though.

OG Nate Moreau transfers to Utah - I consider myself lucky to only have lost one of the redshirt players from last year since so many acted unhappy - the downside is that only leaves us 2 guards on the roster!
I attempted to get Darren O'Donnel from Clemson, but he opted for Vandy instead (loser!) week 7, found out that OT Alex Spilis also left us for Duke. Another lineman gone!! Our offensive line is pretty much depleted after that with NO depth. The coach is looking thru some Juco Rosters for immediate help now.

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Being National Signing Day in real life, it seems like a good time to release the results of our Recruiting

WE need to restock the Oline in a big way. Would like to sign another LB to help replace the Hall of Famer Woodall. Of course we want to add a good QB for depth, and also searching for playmakers at RB/WR. So how did we fare?

Week 9
5 star Fullback Brian Pagel, the Florida star ranked #55 in the nation overall will be the next in a line of bruisers at this position for us.
4 star OG - Matt Stinchcomb, #177 overall, and #14 OG. He will rate better than the guys who left us. May need time to develop, but a good start to the process!

Week 10
4 star OG - Rod Daniels! Juco from MS (71 rating). Just what the doctor ordered! He will no doubt start from day 1!

Week 11 - banner week!
5 star OLB Michael Johnson from Texas! -- a stud who will compete for playing time right away.
4 star OT - Jason Babers (FL), #130 overall, #13 OT.
4 star WR Jamie Atkinson (TN native is #88 rated WR) - good potential
4 star OG Kevin Griffin (FL) -- #259 overall, #20 ranked OG

Week 13 brought another bumper crop
4 star OLB Roderick Dayne (CT). #171 overall, #24 OLB. This will shore up a position that in the past was covered by back-up MLBs
4 star DT Samani Frazier (GA). #145 overall, #16 DT. Excited to get this guy. He will add some quality depth
4 star OLB Michale Urlacher (MS Juco from TN). could start day 1
4 star WR Ronald Young (AL) what a steal, 16th best WR. expects to make 2-deep behind senior speedster Semple, and RS Frosh Kline Reed.
4 star CB Michale Littleton (AR). #215 overall, #17 CB.

biggest loss of the week, 5 star QB Ivey to GA Tech

Week 14, we add another stud TE, 4 star Leonard Pickens from South Dakota

week 15 we round out the class
3 star scrambling athlete QB, Bill Springs from Cali (#331 overall, #20 QB)
3 star DT Corey Hoke (Nashville TN)
3 star OT Steve Hutchinson (MS)
3 star ILB Andy Jackson (GA) - how could not pursue a man named after Old Hickory?!

we ended up with several guys from outside the SE Region
more importantly, we end up with the #2 class behind Missouri (who signed 29 players....12 more than us). We filled a lot of holes with class, and signed some great talent who should be able to help right away. 10 of our 18 signees were ranked in the top 250.

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With College football season fastly approaching, I got the urge to play a few games and continue this diary another year or so.

One things I was happy to see was that we had Volunteer players listed on the "players to watch" list for just about every position (no QB and no OL - two areas we are trying to rebuild this year after graduation).

We are ranked preseason at #25. We are hopeful to win the SEC East once again, and could have the horses to win the championship game this year. Stay tuned!

I'll post analysis of the roster by position

[kujjaquaq]

Glad to see your going to continue with it! Good Luck!

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2012 roster analysis after spring training:

QB: Raymond Anderson has emerged as the clear leader over last year's back-up Walter Holmes. The Michigan Soph is 60/70 rated. He is 70 (PA) and 74 (PT) which is not too far behind where Little was last year. Holmes will be the back-up once again (57/68). The California scrambler Bill Springs adds a different dimension with his running ability. There are rumors he could be moved to RB at the end of the year, but afraid to only have 2 QB' s on roster with our history of injury at the position. Springs is 54/70 rated, passing is 56/40 but his running is 67.

RB: Last year the carries were divided among 4 greenbacks. This year we have 2, with a couple RS FR as back-ups. Max Malinchak leads the way (70/78 rating). His speed has declined from 81 to 77 with some added weight - that will hopefully help him break a few more tackles this year. Juqua Barry will push Max for playing time. (68/77), he can feel the hole and create some runs, but lacks the top end speed that Max has. Bennett and Thomason are 55/65 rated and will need to continue their development. Both are here to serve as role players, and we will need to recruit over them next year.

FB: Kind of a shocker here as true Freshman Brian Pagel has emerged as the starter! Overall, he jumped to 67 of 83 ahead of the All SEC senior M.George (63 of 73). Charles Scott, the Jr, is 69/75 and could keep George mostly on the bench(how does George go from first team all SEC to 3rd string!!?)). I have to feel pretty good about short yardage situations with this bruising trio though!

WR: In one spot, Hannibal Semple returns for his senior year. He maintained his speed in offseason (88) rated 70/72 overall, he would like to be the go-to guy and break some records this year. On the other side, redshirt freshman Kline Reed looks to turn some eyes. Overall 64/77; but with 74 hands he expects to catch most anything thrown his way, then 71 RR and 74 speed he expects to take several of those catches to the house. Butch Browning (61/70) is the main back-up. Time will tell how the new crop of receivers fit into the mix -- Young (#16 WR coming out of HS) is 55/71 and Atkinson is 55/74 was the #88 HS receiver last year -- both have good speed and hands.

TE: All-American prospect Keith Porter didn't improve much in the offseason (77 of 83) but will be a favorite target of Anderson I'm sure. Freddie Leo returns this year as his back-up (67/78) and we have incoming freshman Pickens (59/78) to look forward to down the road.

OT: We will be young on the line - Incoming true freshman Jason Babers wowed everyone in the spring - 58 of 85 rating, but has 67/70 blocking ability which is the best on the team. Soph Harrison (60/77) is expected to start at the other OT position. Sweeney and Woodson (60/70) will serve as back-ups and could take the starting position if the freshman falters.
OG: Juco Rod Daniels will be blowing defensive lineman off the LOS this year. 69/73 tops hall of famer Madise in overall skill. His 81 run blocking should pave some roads for our backs. The other guard is more a work in progress as Sr Chris Rentzel (59/68) and Jr Obami Hill (60/73) will compete for the starting spot, and a couple true freshmen rated 56/59 with 80 potential are waiting in the wings.
Center: Soph Max Young will take over fulltime snapping duties this year. 67 of 80 overall; 99 pass blocker, 71 run blocker.

DE: Chris Rogers (JR, 66/74) and Gary Machado (Sr, 60/70) will anchor the ends. RS Frosh Bobby Kramer will be the key sub (#20 DE out of HS; 57/71 rating). We also have some experience with Tank Eason and Larry Breaux who are mid-to-high 50's but never expected to develop past the low 60's.
DT: I feel good about the interior again this year. Sr Chris Hamlin had 10 sacks last year (64 of 74) and can expect to start again. Jr Robert Burke needs one more defensive TD to set the NCAA record (he is tied with many including Woodall with 2). I'd love to see him return another fumble all the way this year - fun to watch a 307 pounder rumbling down the field. He is 68/72 rated. We have a solid rotation this year and could be able to keep all the tackles fresher as the games and season wears on. Jack Abraham (64/70), Brad Carroll (61/77) plus incoming freshman Frazier (57/76). Larry Conwell 46 of 60 remains a warm body for emergency use and Corey Hoke 49/68 could afford a redshirt.

LB: We will miss Dave Woodall roaming the middle of the field. However, we think we may have a good replacement. RSF Will Gaffney (65 of 81). The other 2 guys who backed him and the OLB's up the last couple years are still in low 60's but will be able to teach Gaffney the ropes.
OLB: We replace Woodall's green presence in the middle by Don Urlacher's greeness on the wing. He is a Juco and expected to hit the ground running (68/73). With him and Gaffney, I like our LB corps. Kemp (64/75) and Ross (61/79) have played almost every game since they got here - both will be pushed hard this year. Michael Johnson was the #8 OLB in the nation last year - (62/84) and Rod Dayne (61 of 78) was also a top 20 prospect. These two guys will develop and be able to fill in after Urlacher leaves

CB: Couple upperclassmen with lots of experience lock down the corners. Dodril (69/78) and Alexander (70/82) have done well in the past. Pair of juniors back them up: Jennings (58/69) and Wright (61/73) and one will need to step up to replace Dodril next year. Or that man may be Michael Littleton (56 of 72). If Littleton lets me redshirt him, he develop and be a star for several years

Safety: Jr Free Safety Keith Ford returns - he has started all but 1 game since arriving on campus. 65 of 76, now is the time to harness those skills and get a return on my investment! Soph Buckman and RS freshmen Sudstill (60/76) will provide back-up and also vie to take over when Ford graduates.
Senior SS Chris Johnson (63 of 80) was forced into a starting role last year due to injury. He has 8 int's in his career, and the 78 tackles last year was just behind Woodall. Carl Compton will compete for playing time. He had to burn his redhshirt after the spinal injury ended the career of Bryon Thomas. His 4 int's were tops on the team and he'd like to get into the record book with an even better performance. (59 of 72, he will continue to learn the ropes)

Special Teams: Courtney Johnson (82 of 84) actually declined his skill. Leg strength of 99 gives plenty of distance; however his accuracy declined to 76 which gives cause to reflect and worry. He was 34 of 43 on FG's last year but only 38 of 40 on XP's. He was 7 of 8 from 40-50, and 3 of 7 beyond 50 (longest was 55). Hope we can give him more XP attempts this year and fewer "having to settle for 3" in the redzone.

Mack Anderson 69 of 74 will boom punts for us again for his senior season. He had fewer punts last year and lower average 41.8. he dropped 16 inside the 20 with only 3 TB;s. Every year he has a punt that approaches 60 yards (59 is his long; 58 last year).

So there are your 2012 Volunteers! Who will be the next break out star for the Vols? Who will lead the offense? Who will replace Woodall as the leader on defense? Which player are you most looking forward to seeing on the field this year? The answers to these questions and more will be found when the season kicks off

[olympia]

Our non-conference schedule this year features games against:
Indiana and BYU to open the season and then the big finale vs The Fighting Irish of Notre Dame!! Meanwhile, we have normal killer SEC schedule - Top 10 ranked teams like Auburn and LSU back to back on the road. Then traditional rivals Kentucky and Vanderbilt followed by South Carolina, Arkansas, Florida and Georgia. And don't forget that season finale with the Irish!

Rather than wait, let's go to the first game

Tennessee vs Indiania
Slightly overcast, but the Vol fans turned out enmasse (104,000). The Hoosiers drew first blood on an 18 yard TD strike from Worthen to Taylor. The Vols respond with a nice long drive capped off by a 1 yard plunge by FB Charles Scott. UT adds a pair of 2nd Qtr FG's to take a 13-7 halftime lead. Ind starts 2nd half with a long FG - Jaqua Barry takes matters into his own hands with a pair of TD runs (17 and 3). 27-10 at end of 3rd. In years past, the Vols usually owned the 2nd half and looked much the same today as Porter catches a 4 yard TD pass from Raymond Anderson. But then things got dicey as Indiana hit a 75 yard TD pass, held UT to 3 and out and drove again - only to settle for a FG. Hoosiers get one more FG to end the scoring. UT wins 34-22

Stats: Vols outgain 520 to 334. Anderson was 27/36 for 348 passing yards. 1 TD, 1 INT. Barry and Malichak had 16 carries each, for 86 and 68 yards respectively. Barry had the 2 TD's. Defensively, Urlacher takes over where Woodall left off - 7 tackles to lead the team (our new MLB Gaffney only had 1 tackle). 4 players had a sack, and Compton picks up where he left off last year nabbing an INT

Couple Top 25 teams survive scares, but #1 So Cal falls to Notre Dame 31-10. What a way to start the season! We may find that the Trojans were way over-rated to be picked as the preseason #1.
With 89 votes, The Vols hold onto the #25 spot in the polls

next is BYU - we will be 2 TD favorites, but I really expect a closer game than that as we iron out the kinks with the new defense (missing Woodall is bigger than I could have imagined)

[olympia]

Tennessee vs BYU
Vols are 14 point favorites

BYU only needs 4 plays to hang 7 on the Vols, our defense needs to stop giving up those big plays!! Vols drive down the field but an apparent tying TD Pass is wiped off due to offensive pass interference, so we settle for a FG. Defense makes up for it with an int and 3 forced fumbles - Anderson struggles with passing and we rely on ground game to take a 20-7 halftime lead. BYU gets benefit of couple more big plays and cut into the lead - 20-14. Vols miss 2 FG's (one from 5 yard line) which is cutting into morale big time!! A 51 yard punt pins BYU at the 5 yard line; however, we give up the biggest play of them all - a 95 yard bomb as someone blew an assignment. Now we trail with only 2 minutes to go in the game. it takes 2 4th down conversions to get the ball to the 20 yard line with 9 seconds to go (the AI actually suggested punting when it was 4th an 11 on the 40 yard line with 30 seconds left - lucky I was there to override the OC and our pass play set us up for a game winning FG attempt. Was amazed the OC actually wanted to pass with 9 ticks left on the clock but again I overrode him and sent in the kicker). Johnson made up for his earlier misses and nailed this one perfectly. A comeback 23-21 hard fought victory.

We had 467 yards to their 392. Anderson had a dismal 23 of 42 passing day for 202 yards and a costly INT. Lucky for us our RB's ran well behind a dominant O-Line. Barry had 119 yards on 20 carries (1 TD), Malinchak added 85 yards on 15 carries. Fullback Scott added 48 yards, Pagel 6 yards and a TD. Reed 6 catches for 81 yards, Semple 4 catches 44 yards, Porter 7 catches 39 yards. Our line provided 7 Key run blocks (3 by Daniels) and 6 pancakes (2 by TE Porter). Burke recovered another fumble, but was not able to rumble for a TD as he did twice last year. In all we took away 4 fumbles and 2 Int's - if not for the turnovers this would have been a different ball game. leading tackler was Tommy Kemp with 9, the other OLB Urlacher has 6, we sacked their QB 4 times, but gave up 3 ourselves.

Texas took the top spot in the polls long enough to lose to Colorado State! Now Michigan is ranked #1. Vols slip a spot in both polls (26 in media and 21 in coaches). Maybe we took the Cougars for granted looking ahead to the top 5 SEC foes coming up. I'd much rather we just take care of business and blow them out next time --
We take an open date to heal up and get ready for a brutal stretch. #5 Auburn and then #2 LSU

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Tennessee at Auburn -- we are 8 point underdogs


we should be more, we have never played well against the War Eagles but the boys are determined to fix that this year. Didn't start out well as Auburn kicks 3 FG's and a TD to take a 16-0 lead (could be worse, those could have been 4 TD's). The offense was visibly frustrated and just threw up a prayer from the 10 - Ronald Young ran under it and kept on running. 16-7. The 3rd qtr only saw us kick a FG to make it a one score game. with 8:43 left in the game, Anderson hit Leo for a 33 yard TD strike - the Xp gave us our first lead of the game. Our defense had played lights out holding Auburn the 2nd half, but were visibily tired. Auburned mounted a 6 minute drive to retake the lead. With hope running out, Anderson rallied the troops one last time He marched the team down the field and found Juqua Barry in the endzone with 26 ticks on the clock (13 yard td). We are going to overtime!! No fairy dust left - Anderson was sacked and Johnson sent the kick wide right. Didn't matter as Auburn rolled to the end zone and the victory, 5 yard TD pass gives Auburn the 30-24 overtime win. tough road loss.

We outgained them 426-410. Anderson ripped their #1 ranked pass defense for 399 yards, 3 TD's but 2 costly interceptions. He was also sacked twice. We tried to establish a ground game, but Auburn stacked the box and dared us to pass. Barry led us with 28 yards on 10 carries. (26 rushes, 1 total net yard!). Young had 94 receiving yards, Leo - 77, Semple -71, Porter -66, Reed -65
Ford led the defense with 8 tackles, Eason had our only sack. We just couldn't force a turnover or get a key stop when we needed it on that last drive.

we go to baton Rouge to face the #1 LSU Bengal Tigers. Bad news is we have 4 offensive linemen on the DL. Can't bode well for our poor QB and running game

[olympia]

http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRqFwztrO9aVw4BpnKMpQnbDW_UL8N5n rrMTmC890msMNLm4b4G:www.onlinetickets.com/images/events/lp_lsu.jpg #1 LSU vs #22 Tennessee http://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQhlwwQG_Zu2sPpVz46_x2anz7tRAB_Q x1y3BkJJ_mOc2lehVDmvA:2.bp.blogspot.com/-HkjAIV00X-c/Tml70H6KqvI/AAAAAAAAAVU/twlQXgEiTdo/s1600/8757597760_tennessee-vols.gif
We are 5 pt underdogs

UT goes 3 and out, LSU marches inside the 10 where they stall and settle for a FG attempt - BLOCKED!! Back-up TE Leonard Pickens makes the big play! Vols march down the field and settle for a FG then the wheels fall off. 82 yard run, then Ford fumbles the kick off allowing another score. Vols do not go quietly- with 14:07 to go in the game, Johnson's FG give us the lead 16-13. However, LSU rattles off a couple big plays and win going away 30-16. Our defense gave up 284 rushing yards and that pretty much says it all. Anderson struggled again 14 of 38 for 213 yards and INT> Barry picked up 66 yards and a TD. But all in all, the offense sputtered. Frosh WR Kline Reed shows what the fuss is about, gaining 99 yards (his performance may prevent Semple from setting some Vol career reception records this year). Abraham had a couple sacks - our sack leader Hamlin has been very quiet this year.


we do show some good improvement though in development. Kemp gives us 3 green LB's, Hamlin goes green. Sweeney on the OL joins Daniels and Young

2 major rivalry games are up next - Kentucky and Vanderbilt. Long time followers have seen some great classics in these games. Hopefully we can put these two tough losses against ranked teams behind us and bounce back against our historic rivals. BTW, Kentucky is undefeated and #1 in the SEC east. This is not your normal Wildcat team

[olympia]

Tennessee vs Kentucky

UT is 0-2 in SEC while UK is 2-0 and first place of SEC East -- what a different world we live in

just what the doctor ordered - in years past we have struggled with our rival, this year the team came home hungry and angry. They jumped on the cats early and often. It was 17-0 before UK completed their first pass - too bad it was a 93 TD pass, daggone those big plays. Vols bounce back with a 43 yard bomb to TE Porter to close out the first half 24-7. We know the Cats will not just lay down and quit and we trade FG's in the 3rd qtr. Vols get to play some younger players in the 4th qtr which allows UK to nail a 68 yard TD pass. Max, Pagel, and Barry add TD's for the Vols then the scrubs allow UK to tack on a meaningless drive late. Final Score 48-25, go big orange!

STATS: 557 yards to 338 (most of those in the 4th qtr). Anderson 18 of 29 for 293 yards and 2 TD's. Barry 29 carries for 129 yards, 2 TD's. Porter had the game of his life (playing with an injury) catching 6 for 131 yards and a TD/ Browning added a TD catch on 63 yards. Reed and Semple had quiet sub 50 yard days. The Oline was dominant, Daniels with 4 KRB's and 3 pancakes (before an injury), Urlacher had 6 tackles to lead the defense, Hamlin got his first sack of the year while Abraham picked up his 5th (Hamlin has been drawing some doubleteams which freed up big Jack). Several guys got playing time but nothing to show for it on the stat sheet.

in other games, #1 LSU outlasts 4-2 Alabama 21-20. Ole Miss upsets Florida. UT gets no media votes and drops to #26 in coaches poll (93 votes)

Injury report:
C Max Young is recovering from an injury to his Wrist (Abrasion). He seems to be progressing well and we recommend playing him this week.
OT Curtis Harrison is trying to play through an injury to his Spleen (Internal Injury). He seems willing to give it a go, but we would recommend giving him another week to recover.
OT Jerald Sweeney is currently battling an injury to his Patella (Cracked). He is getting better and able to play, but you might want to sit him out one more week.
OG Chris Rentzel is trying to play through an injury to his Elbow (Stress Fracture). He seems willing to give it a go, but we would recommend giving him another week to recover.
DE Tank Eason is currently battling an injury to his Foot (Torn Cartilage). He is getting better and able to play, but you might want to sit him out one more week.
DE Chris Rodgers is recovering from an injury to his Head (Skull Fracture). He seems to be progressing well and we recommend playing him this week.
DT Robert Burke is recovering from an injury to his Head (Mild Concussion). He seems to be progressing well and we recommend playing him this week.

(4 offensive linemen and 3 on the D-line. tough to win the trench wars with the walking wounded)

[olympia]

3-3 Vandy vs 3-2 Tennessee
Vandy has the 10th best rush defense in the nation (96 a game) - in fact one breakdown shows the offenses about even and Vandy with the advantage on D. Yet we are favored and know that every year this has always been a very tough game

Vols rack up over 100 rushing yards in the first quarter alone en route to a 17-3 halftime lead (2 TD passes to Porter). Max rolls in the 3rd and the Vols win in a rout - 52-10

UT at South Carolina -- Vols are 15 pt favorites
We take the "gamechickens" for granted and struggle the entire game. Max breaks away for a 96 yard TD run for the only offensive bright spot. Johnson gets 3 FG's including a career high 50 yarder. VOLS hold on for a 16-6 victory

Up next, arch rival Florida Gators, ranked #18 in the nation. Vegas odds - even

[olympia]

#18 Florida (4-3) at Tennessee (5-2)

Florida drives down the field after the opening kickoff to score easily, but they miss the XP. Vols answer quickly, a 24 yard run by Barry and a 56 yard TD pass to Semple (his first TD catch of the year). After the Vol defense holds 3 out and out, Max Malinchak takes the hand-off and scampers 65 yards on the first play to score!! Time of Possession may look lopsided, but we lead on the scoreboard. Florida answers with a 66 yard run of their own. This times the Vols mount a long (13 play, 6:13 drive) to rest their weary defense. Cap it off with a 6 yard TD strike to Keith Porter. Couple big plays against an injury riddled Vol defense and the Gators are knocking on the door, but a big hit by Kramer, fumble picked up Hamlin who races 76 yards for the score!! (too bad it wasn't Burke for the record). Compton trying to hard for the big play gets burned a couple times, but Dodril bails him out with an INT. Vols take 28-13 lead to the lockerroom. Defenses play lights out the second half and contain the scoring. Vols make a good drive to the 5 yard line but Johnson's FG is blocked! Gators use that momentum to drive for a quick score - 2 pt conversion is no good and Vols maintain a 28-19 lead with 2:37 to go. Johnson gets one more attempt and this time it's true.
Vols win 31-19

Alabama knocks off #1 Ole Miss and leaps over us to the top 25. Western Michigan at 8-0 enters at #24. Oregon State is the new #1 team this week after knocking 4-5 So Cal out of the top 25 (21-16)

as far as rankings, we get 58 media votes (Florida, the team we just beat gets 60). Coaches rank us at #23 (224 votes). On a downside the win, both our centers were injured. Young strained an MCL and Mehl got poked in the eye. I ended up moving a guard over to cover rather than playing a walk-on. Both are doubtful so our line woes continue. 2 DE's also went down, Rodgers and Machado forcing a DT to provide depth there (and forcing us to play 3-4 a couple series to rest a lineman)

big games across the country next week: #1 Oregon State visits #6 Washington. #19 Ohio State visits tough Wisconsin. Closer to home, #3 LSU goes to Georgia (tied with us atop the east)

[olympia]

4-5 Arkansas vs 5-2 Tennessee. UT is the better team overall, but only a touchdown favorite at home
Anderson finds Browning to give us the first lead. Arkansas gets a 74 punt return to shake our confidence, but we take a 14-10 lead at the half. Second half was all Tennessee and we win 31-14

Colorado is the new #1 team as Washington knocked off Oregon State 28-20. Strange poll as Washington remains at #6 while OSU drops in at #5 just ahead of them. Ohio State lost to Wisconsin 30-19 and LSU romps between the hedges knocking off UGA 22-6

7-2 Tennessee at 5-4 Georgia
this was a typical ole fashioned SEC defensive slobberknocker between the hedges in Athens Georgia. It was a battle of FG's in the first half and UGA takes a 12-3 lead into the lockerroom. We tried to revamp our offensive strategy because wecould not seem to move the ball at all. 67 yard pass play to Kline Reed got us on the move - a few bulldog penalties kept us alive in the Orange Zone until 3rd string QB Bill Springs sneaks into the line-up. Generally when the speedster comes in, it's a QB draw or something but this time he surprised everyone and tosses it out to Semple for the score and the lead cut to two (10-12). Another nice drive at the end of the qtr puts us in FG range and Johnson gives us the first lead of the game. Hold onto your hats because the lead changes hands 4 more times in the 4th quarter!! Each team woudl get a little drive going and settle for the go ahead FG. UGA gets the lead with 9:00. UT comes back at 4:30. UGA retakes the lead with only 1:29 seconds. Vols mount one last chance for heroics. 27 yard pass to Leo gets us started, couple short gains move the chains again. COmes down to 3rd and 10 with 50 seconds left and once again our star WR Semple comes up big with a 14 yard gain to moving the ball to the 32.. Incomplete pass stops the clock. We tried to catch them off guard with a running play and Barry scampers for 8 but did not get out bounds. Another short pass to Semple gives us the first down on the 21 yard line and the Vols call their last time out. Courtney Johnson calmly walks out in front of the hostile crowd and converts the 39 yard FG. After a touchback, UGA gets one shot - they complete a long pass with a great catch by Brown, but the Vol defense are able to tackle him after the long gain and time expires.
Final Score at Georgia - Tenneessee 19, Bulldogs 18.

Star of the game went to the Bulldog Free Safety who had 7 tackles and an INT. I would have gone with Johnson who was 4-4 on FG's (UGA kicker was 5 of 6). Offensively, UGA outgained us 314 to 298. We were held to 75 rushing yards while they romped for 171. We lost 2 interceptions and lost 2 fumbles. Looking at the stat sheet, I can't find many reasons to explain how we escaped with a win. Heart and desire overcame the stats. Anderson was 14/32 passing for 199 yards, sacked 3 times. Springs was 1 for 1, and the lone TD of the game. The leading rusher was the Fullback, George with 34 yards on 3 carries. Max and Barry combine for 50 yards on 20 carries (that's like 2 yards and a cloud of dust - not going to get many first downs). Kline Reed was the benefactor of most of the catches - 6 for 118 yards. Semple added 6 catches for 47 yards late in the game when we needed it the most. Browning had 8 passes thrown his way and caught NONE - dropped 4 outright. Kemp had 8 tackles on defense. Our defense played well enough to help us win, they kept the Bulldogs out of the endzone all day and that was a big deal.

[kujjaquaq]

Congrats on the wins coach. Keep it up!

[olympia]

We certainally will try. Last game of regular season will be against #18 Notre Dame (7-2)

Two storied legacies. Programs launched by two of the greatest coaches ever - Knute Rockne of ND and General Robert Neyland at UT. Two huge fan bases. Two awesome fight songs

<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/7csGhMQoQms" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe> <iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/avAD4CX1IzY" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

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Notre Dame vs Tennessee
The pagentry that is College Football shown first and foremost in this game. The legendary coaches of both team's - Knute Rockne of the Irish and General Robert Neyland of Tennessee are considered by many to be the all time best. And with today being Senior Day for the Vols, there was added emotion in the air. Big things were expected of Hannibal Semple this year at WR. He did break the all time Receiving yardage record, but he was kept in check by opposing defenses. None the less, Vol Fans gave him a huge ovation as he sped thru the T for the final time. The biggest roar of alll goes to Keith Porter, the star TE. He has been the rock of this offense the past 2 years. Big Michael George, the bruising FB, Dodril has been our lockdown CB for 4 years. These guys will be missed, and hopefully their replacements have honed their craft in reserve. Other familiar names include DE Gary Machado and DT Chris Hamlin (will have to check the final stats to see where he lands on the all-time sack list for us)

Notre Dame shows their talent in the opening drive, mixing it up and moving the length of the field but settles for a FG. Vols offense looked good in spots but had to punt after a short drive. On the second series, the Vol Defense lit up the QB for a couple sacks. After a punt, Anderson catches the Irish in a blitz and finds his All-American TE Keith Porter who races 50 yards for a TD. That's how the first quarter ends. Tennessee's D really turns it up a notch on the pass rush picking up another sack (Jack Abraham) and hurring the ND QB who ends up making a mistake and throws into tight coverage - Dodril is right there to pick it off and puts the Vols in good field position. Unfortunately, ND decided turnabout was fair play bringing heavy pressure for a sack followed by INT of their own. Its back and forth as the defenses are playing much better in the 2nd qtr. Vols finally get a good drive going, first and goal from the 9....a 8 yard gain is nullified by a penalty followed by a couple big stuffs in the backfield forces the Vols into a 45 FG to make it 10-3. Burkes picks up his second sack of the day and forces another punt - Noonan returns it to midfield. With the short field to work, the Vols go to work with short passes and steady diet of their big fullbacks to move the ball - then a fake to the FB and long throw to speedster Semple who sprints down to the 2 yard line. From there, Anderson surprises many by making the toss to Browning (who has a record setting 10 drops on the year) - this time Browning holds on - give him 6!! ND fails to move the ball in the final two minutes and at the half the score is 17-3 Vols.

To start the second half, UT sputters and goes 3 and out. ND responds to a fiery speech by going deep - its a footrace to the endzone and LB Johnson chases down the showboating WR and punches the ball out! (his second forced fumble of the game). DT Robert Burke scoops up the loose ball but does not advance for a TD as we've seen him do so many times. Vols dodge a bullet! Injuries start to mount up and the Vols are losing DE's right and left. Forced to play some 4th string guys hurts them as ND drives 75 yards and scores to cut the lead to 7. ND is firing on all cylanders shutting down the offense - tying the game, then driving for the go ahead FG. What a drastic turn of events we have seen in the second half. The Vol Defense is used to owning the second half and shutting out their opponents but not today. Trailing, the Vol's offense seems to wake up. A couple short runs caught the Irish off guard - as their DB's play up Anderson burns them deep to Semple who once again gets us to the 2 yard line. From there, Porter catches his 2nd TD of the day and UT regains the lead with 4:37 on the clock. Is the defense rested enough for another galliant stand? Dodril, the star CB is out for the rest of the game and we are now playing two back-up Defensive Tackles at DE. Could get dicey! And it was, takes all of 2 minutes and two long pass plays for the Irish to retake a 3 pt lead. How do the Vols respond? second play, a 70 yard TD bomb to who - Keith Porter for his 3rd TD of the day!! and it's 31-27 with 1:44 left in the game. Kwame calls his defense together before the kickoff and tells them this is where history is made. GO OUT and make a big stand here. Don't let anything get past you - and linemen, let's get more pressure on that QB! first play - 32 pass reception and ND calls Time out. Vols get some pressure and hurry Dockery to make bad throws bringing up 3rd and 10, 55 ticks on the clock. After a false start, the Irish were cracking under the pressure. 4th and 10 for the ball game. Dockery has plenty of time, assessing his option and throws - high and incomplete! Vols get the ball back with 35 seconds. After taking a knee, the Vols call the dumbest play ever! Throwing to Browing who gets a nice gain but then coughs up the football!!! ND has it back at the 50 yard line! 19 seconds on the clock and Vol faithful want the head of whoever made that call (I was in process of taking it off of auto-call when I saw that happen - ugh!) Their fears turned to cheers when two injuried veterans grabbed their helmets and rushed onto the field to rest the weary underclassmen who had gave their all - DE Chris Rodgers and CB Dodril both decided they could put away the pain for a few snaps and try to seal this win. They both make good plays (Rodgers hurries the QB, Dodril makes a sure-handed tackle in mid-field....and the Vols stave off the comeback to pull out the victory!! 31-27 is the finall score - Rocky Top plays into the darkness.

Star of the Game: no doubt, TE Keith Porter. 7 catches, 156 yards and 3 TD's (71 yac). ND outgains us 480 to 360 (most of that in the second half as our depleted defense just seemed to give out). Anderson and Holmes were both ineffective a combined 14 of 31 passing, but 262 yards and 4 TDs (both QB's threw 2 TD passes). The running game was stifled as well, 39 attempts for 98 total yards. Urlacher had 8 tackles and was exhausted at the end of the game. Gaffney and Kemp 6 each (Linebackers combine for 27 total tackles). We had 4 sacks in the first half, 2 by Burke. Int's by Alexander and Compton (team leading 5 on the year - he has 9 now in 2 years. On this pace he could surpass Bacon's record of 16. The difference is Compton gets picked on, whereas Bacon was just that good). Johnson forced two fumbles. The defense was stellar in the first half, but injuries and fatigue seemed to catch up to them in the second. Very uncharacteristic for them to give up 24 pts in the 2nd half like that. Irish made the better adjustments in the lockerroom for sure. However, they came up big on the last two drives, especially after the bone-headed passplay and fumble. It's a big win over a top 20 team with lots of tradition. Now let's get healed up for the SEC championship game. Hopefully this game will give the boys the confidence they need to know they can beat anyone on any given day.

Ole Miss crushed rival Miss State in the Egg Bowl (44-3) - they will represent the west against us in Atlanta. Auburn 44-29 winners over Bama in the Iron Bowl. In other games. CAL hands USC another loss - the Trojans fall to 5-6 after being the preseason pick to win it all. Disappointing season for them. Oregon knocks off Oregan State, but the Beavers remain #4 in the polls ahead of undefeated Western Michigan who are this year's Cinderella story. Tennessee moves up to #16 in the media poll and 15 in Coaches. Ole Miss, Maryland, and LSU are mixed in the top 3 spots. Ole Miss is actually ranked #1 in Coaches. Maybe we can have a repeat of the Florida game last year and knock off a #1 ranked team.

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Player of the year goes to Justin Keith of Florida State (rated 83/89). The Soph completed 64% of his passes (225 of 350) for 3308 yards, 29 TD's and only 8 int. (166.4 rating). Also rushed for 310 yards and 4 TD's (54 carries).

UT's Keith Porter wins the Strong Hands award (77/84 rating). 58 catches, 825 yards, 9 TD's. Added 6 run blocks and 7 pancakes. His performance against Notre Dame surely put him over the top here

FSU puts 3 players on the first team All-American list (Justin at QB, Morely at OG, and Johnson at LB. Tennessee has its first All-American in several years as Porter nails down the TE spot

First team All SEC: Porter (TE), Scott (FB). Dodril (CB). Second Team: Daniels (Juco OG); George (FB); none on Defense. 3rd teamers: Pagel (FB) -- outside of the fullback position, we almost got shut out! Florida, Ole Miss, and Auburn raked in the most awards. As usual though, UT strives to play team ball. Lots of team tackles and spreading the ball around with their balanced attack. The result is our 3rd trip to the SEC championship game. And quite honestly, our best chance ever to win it.

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SEC CHAMPIONSHIP GAME

Ole Miss (10-1, ranked #1) vs Tennessee (9-2, ranked #14). Ole Miss will be 3 pt favorites. They have the 5th rated defense and 4th rated offense in the nation. Vols come in with 11th best offense and 44th defense, their lowest total there in the Kwame era). Ole Miss came into the season looking for a 6th place finish so they have greatly exceeded expectations. Have they just been playing over their heads? I have to think we match up well with them, and if we can game plan around them like we did last year in the regular season this could be the biggest win in our history.

Tennessee came out with a swagger we are not used to seeing. They remember last year and how they shut out the Rebels (22-0). The Vols have a chip on their shoulder due to some disrepect they feel they get in the media. Does it translate to the field? Opening drive - they stop Ole Miss on 3 plays. One play - bomb to Semple and the Vols storm to the lead. Ole Miss looks to tie the game on a 54 yard big play - but ineligible receiver downfield wipes the score off the board. Rebels punt, Vols move the ball with a few runs mixed with short hooks (almost like a boxing match as UT is wearing them down). TD pass from the 2 yard line. 14-0. Vols add a pair of FG's; however a poor kickoff gives Ole Miss great field position right before the half. They take advantage of the short field driving to the 5 but settle for a FG. That gives the Rebs some momentum and confidence going into the locker room. They take the 2nd half kick - 40 yard hook scores a big play over usually steady SS Chris Johnson. The has been cut in half. With UT wilt under the onslaught and pressure? Not if Raymond Anderson can help it! 57 yard out pattern to Kline Reed -from there, the Vols pound the rock and All SEC FB Scott rumbles the last 7 yards for a TD. With the XP, it's 27-10 Ole Miss roars back with another big pass play and score again - only this time they blow the XP. The defenses tire but stand tall the rest of the game allowing both teams to trade FG's. Tennessee grinds out the clock to take home the SEC trophy. Final SCore 30-19
Stats: We dominated TOP for the most part - 36:30 to 23:30. We outgain 447-364. Anderson had a great game 19 of 26 passing for 258 yards and a pair of TD's. Malichak and Barry combine for 29 carries and 99 yards (total 187 yards rushing as we kept running in fresh legs). Kline Reed 5catches for 117 yards. Middle LB Gaffney leads the D with 7 tackles and an INT. Burke picked up our only sack as we did not get much pressure on Wakefield - which led to quite a few big plays allowed.
In other championship games: GA TECH upsets Maryland 37-13. Western Michigan suffers its first defeat losing to 6-6 Miami of Ohio. Nebraska knocks off Texas

Media ranks LSU #1 and Ole Miss #2. Maryland falls from 1 to 5. WMU drops to 8, just ahead of Tennessee who comes in at 9. Coaches - put Colorado in the top spot ahead of LSU. MD 3, Ole Miss 4.. UT at 7. The computers are thinking totally different as they have LSU at 17 and Pittsburgh #1. The all-important GDS ranking to decide who plays for the national title? It's Ole Miss and Colorado! They just happen to be the top 2 teams in the RPI rating too

WE are invited to the Fiesta Bowl in Phoenix to take on #20 Nebraska who shocked the lesser UT (Texas). Nebraska knocked off Colorado keeping them out of the Big 12 championship, but the Buffs still got selected to the National Title game.

[Theheel]

Congrats on a well deserved SEC Title, Coach

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thanks. I had to get a new laptop after a viral attack. Hoping to be able to be able to revive the game. Meanwhile, I have a few more games already in the books that I will post

In the games prior to ours, Florida knocks off #23 Minnesota 23-20. Michigan State upsets LSU who apparantly thought they belonged in the title game - 41-38 final. Texas romps Bama 33-10. Notre Dame upsets #5 Maryland who also had dreams of being in the championship game.

10-2 Tennessee vs 9-3 Nebraska in the Fiesta Bowl
nice start to the game as the Volunteer offense looks to be in rhythm. Nebraska is playing to stop the pass and we are able to bust a couple good runs up the middle - then Anderson lofts the ball into the endzone as they cheat up. After a defensive stop, we tack on a FG for a 10-0 lead. Nebraska drives the field and then a 27 yard TD pass puts them on the scoreboard. Max Malichak answers in one play - 84 yard TD scamper. Our defense is playing well and we have a 2-1 time of possession edge....Vols get one last chance before the half and Anderson calmly leads them down the field. A mix of run and pass has Nebraska guessing. Once we get inside the 20, Anderson finds his All-American TE Keith Porter streaking into the end zone and arcs the ball in his direction. 2 DB's merge and collide with Porter, but the best TE in the game comes down with the football!! 24-7 halftime lead for the Vols!!
Nebraska gets the ball to start the 2nd stanza and they drive it down our throats. 3rd and short, Jack Abraham comes up with the big hit and forces a FG. That could be a big play right there. The Vols answer with a 6 minute will-killing drive that ends with a FG of our own. 27-10 end of 3rd qtr. Nebraska tries to make it interesting as they march down the field - their passing attack has our defensive backs near exhaustion trying to chase them around. However, the defense managed to keep them out of the end zone time and again. THe game ends with Nebraska first and goal at the 2 yard line. Final score 27-17
Final stats: Vols outgain the Huskers 449-375 (295 to 46 on the ground). Anderson was 18 of 24 for 154 yards and couple TD's. He managed the game quite well and gave the defense time to rest with some long drives. Max Malichak was the star of the game - 15 carries for 141 yards and the long TD run. (take out the long run and his stats were less impressive). Defensively, Kemp led us with 6 tackles. Ford had 5 - all in the first half. Jack Abraham had 3 sacks, Hamlin, Rodges, and Buckman each added one. We also had 6 hurries. All in all, a great game for the Vols.

Ole Miss defeats Colorado 37-24 to claim the National title. Buffalos drop to #11 in the polls
Media moves us up 1 spot to #8. Coach poll, we stay #7 (with three 3 loss teams ahead of us - we will need to earn more respect next year)
final media poll: Ole Miss, Pittsburgh, Syracuse, Oregon State, LSU, Maryland, Western Michigan, Tennessee, Purdue, Auburn

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We get A's across the board and A+ overall!
The only underclassman on the list to possibly declare early is CB Alexander.
South Carolina Quinton Braxton, an Asst at Auburn last year. Stanford hires Michigan Asst Vegas Merrill - a couple other coaches fired as well
Closer to home the big news that shocked the foundation of the Vol Nation: Defensive Coach Kwame Koman announced his retirement effective immediately!!!

Our budget will be 2,535,000 (20K change) plus 84,500 weekly recruiting budget
In his second year as OC, Sylvester Shockey earned some fans as the offense improves the #10 overall, 15th rushing, and 20th passing, 10th in points

we may have upgraded the other coaching staff positions. Bringing in Air Force alum JT Christian to head up the Special Teams. He was on the Auburn staff in 2007 - they were ranked #1 in punting and #14 in kick returns! He is green in development and scouting
To replace Kwame, we found a Florida gator alumni who was looking for a job. Prior experience at Missouri and Oregon - his teams ranked in the 50's, but doubt he had the talent that we have. Plus those teams were just over .500 records. Great motivator, excellent game planner. decent at scouting and recruiting, but great at developing linemen and linebackers. Only flaw might be DB development (yellow). We have not seen much player development over the years, so I hope he can deliver here for us.

two players announce their intent to transfer. Redshirt OT Steve Hutchinson hurts, but LB Rod Dayne makes no sense to me - the #24 LB played in 9 games as the back-up and was heir apparent to JUCO Urlacher. Dayne ends up at Marshall Hutchinson runs off to BYU

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National Signing Day -- how our recruiting went:

P Chuck Ramsey, 5-stars
Brookland-Cayce (Cayce, SC)
National Rank: 34, Regional: 10, Position: 1

C Stacy Anderson, 5-stars
Jackson County (Gainesboro, TN)
National Rank: 80, Regional: 22, Position: 5

CB Mike Bennett, 5-stars
Trinity Christian Academy (Jacksonville, FL)
National Rank: 38, Regional: 11, Position: 7

QB J.D. Hammack, 5-stars
Cuba (Cuba, IL)
National Rank: 25, Regional: 8, Position: 3

SS Mike Taylor, 4-stars
Lafayette (Mayo, FL)
National Rank: 151, Regional: 36, Position: 14

SS Josh Barrington, 4-stars
Lakeview-Ft. Oglethorpe (Ft. Oglethorpe, GA)
National Rank: 153, Regional: 37, Position: 15

WR Charlie Douglas, 3-stars
Georgia Military (GA), Boca Raton, FL, HS - FL
National Rank: 319, Regional: 73, Position: 39

OLB Artie Morton, 3-stars
Mount Ida (Mount Ida, AR)
National Rank: 664, Regional: 153, Position: 28

OG Clint Norman, 3-stars
Church Point (Church Point, LA)
National Rank: 620, Regional: 140, Position: 34

OT Bob Casey, 3-stars
Windsor Forest (Savannah, GA)
National Rank: 480, Regional: 112, Position: 28

TE John Augustyniak, 3-stars
Heritage (Saginaw, MI)
National Rank: 568, Regional: 109, Position: 27

TE John Gary, 3-stars
Brentwood Academy (Brentwood, TN)
National Rank: 736, Regional: 173, Position: 38

DT Bernie Young, 3-stars
Aucilla Christian Academy (Monticello, FL)
National Rank: 373, Regional: 90, Position: 56