Tennessee football coach Phillip Fulmer typically likes to play about half of his freshmen signing class.

The Vols might be inclined to play more true freshmen than normal this season - out of need, and out of merit.

Already, freshmen quarterbacks Erik Ainge and Brent Schaeffer have made a move on the starting position.

Sixth-year senior C.J. Leak has been proficient, but the freshmen show great upside.

Schaeffer has play-making abilities with his legs and his arm, but also, a tendency to force the ball into coverage.

Ainge has better footwork and mobility than anticipated, and he has the strongest arm on the team. Ainge had five dropped passes in Saturday's scrimmage, indicating he must establish a better rapport with his receivers.

Freshman cornerback Jonathan Hefney is giving sophomore Jonathan Wade a battle for the starting job. Hefney's cover skills are impressive, but Wade has shined, too. Hefney is also an option in the return game.

Freshman Inky Johnson wasn't rated highly by the recruiting services, but with three tackles and a pass break-up in the scrimmage, he drew the praise of Fulmer.

Freshman defensive end Antonio Reynolds had four tackles in the scrimmage and gives the Vols a speed-rush player at the position.

Chris Brown is another promising newcomer at the H-back position. Brown had three catches for 42 yards Saturday.

Freshman end Xavier Mitchell impressed with a solid push and good quickness.

Ryan Karl has looked good at safety at times, as has fellow freshman Ellix Wilson.

And when he lines up correctly, fullback David Holbert is showing why he was one of the top-rated players at his position coming out of high school.

"Some guys show up and earn or get a chance to play right away, either by performance or injury,'' UT recruiting coordinator Greg Adkins said. "We hope several guys can get in the mix.''

Redshirts Are Coming: In addition to the true freshmen, several redshirt freshmen look to make a difference this season.

Robert Meachem is the early favorite to lead UT's receivers in receptions.

Cornerback Roshaun Fellows has been one of the more impressive players at his position and could earn time in the six-defensive-back package if not a starting spot.

Defensive back Antonio Gaines has made strides since undergoing knee surgery last season and may pop up on special teams.

Offensive lineman Eric Young earned praise from his teammates for a great offseason and provides valuable depth.

Tight end Brad Cottam has a chance to lead his position in receptions.

End Jared Hostetter had earned a spot in the rotation prior to suffering a high ankle sprain.