When: Tuesday afternoon

Where: Lindsey Nelson Field

Gear: Helmets and Shorts

Fading: Coach Phillip Fulmer said his team faded during the last third of practice. Fulmer attributed the decline to the heat. The high temperature was in the mid-80’s. Previously, Knoxville’s unseasonably mild temperatures did not affect practice tempo.

QB Watch: Senior C.J. Leak was the only quarterback not to throw an interception in Tuesday’s practice. Junior linebacker Marvin Mitchell intercepted a pass by junior Rick Clausen. Freshman Erik Ainge was intercepted by sophomore Jarod Parrish. Sophomore Jonathan Wade picked off an errant pass by freshman Brent Schaeffer. Schaeffer continues to throw the ball into coverage and, with the exception of the one interception, have success.

Soaring Sears: Fulmer said sophomore offensive lineman Aaron Sears may be one of the best five lineman on the team. Fulmer said Sears can play any position. If Sears cracks into the starting lineup, it would likely be at junior right tackle Albert Toeaina’s expense. Sears could be placed at right guard, which would slide junior Cody Douglas to right tackle. Fulmer said Toeaina’s technique needs to improve. Toeaina has spent the vast majority in the first- team lineup.

A Shell Game: Defensive coordinator John Chavis is looking to add depth to his defensive tackle unit. The Vols have tried the following defensive ends at tackle: senior Karlton Neal, junior Jason Hall, and sophomore Turk McBride. That could mean a jump up the depth chart for freshman Antonio Reynolds. Fulmer praised his attitude and athletic ability after practice.

Wide Receiver Report: Derrick Tinsley has bounced back from his slow start with two impressive catches. Monday, Tinsley hauled in a pass one-handed for a touchdown. Tuesday, Tinsley caught a pass with Brandon Johnson draped on his back. Dropped passes plagued Tinley’s during the first two days of practice.

Settling Down: Junior Omar Gaither appears set on one position for the immediate future. Gaither said his practice time is now limited to outside linebacker partially because of some newfound bulk. Gaither was splitting time between linebacker and safety. Gaither reported to pre-season camp at 235 pounds. He weighed 225 pounds during spring practice.

Injury Report: Junior linebacker Kevin Simon said he was bothered with a muscle spasm on the side of his torso. Fulmer said Simon was limited by the pain and would seek a medical evaluation. The injury did not appear serious. Freshman Bill Grimes did not participate in practice after having an ingrown toenail removed. Fulmer said Grimes will be back Thursday or Friday. Senior tight end Victor McClure left practice early with a sprained shoulder. Chris Heath missed Monday and Tuesday’s practice with an undisclosed medical issue. Senior Chuck Prugh was held out of practice as he continues to work his way back to playing shape. Prugh missed the majority of last season with a serious viral infection. Fulmer said he expects Prugh back Wednesday.

Looking Ahead: The Vols will don full pads for the first time Wednesday. Thursday the Vols will hold the first of two two-a-day practice sessions. Saturday the Vols will hold their first scrimmage of the season.