Sometimes great instincts can get the best of a man. Kevin Simon is looking to overcome just that.

Simon's instincts are enviable. The California native has a fantastic ability to read plays earlier than the vast majority of his counterparts.

That attribute, when combined with his speed, can act as a detriment as the University of Tennessee star replaces the departed Robert Peace at middle linebacker. Since moving from strong-side linebacker, Simon has had a tendency to overrun plays.

"It's something he's aware of," said head coach Phillip Fulmer. "You can't overrun plays. You've got to play downhill on the (ball carrier's) inside hip and tackle from inside out. If you play a really great cutback runner, then (over-pursuit) can be a problem.

"He's still getting a feel for the position. He's improved a lot. He's getting off blocks as well as anyone we've got. I'm really happy with what he's gotten done."

Fulmer said Simon's health, or lack thereof, has slowed the transition. Simon missed significant practice time last week with a pulled rib muscle. He returned in time for Saturday's scrimmage and the opportunity to fine-tune his pursuit angles.

"It's better but it's still not exactly where I want to be," said Simon. "It was pretty good in this past scrimmage. Since I've missed a few days of practice I feel like I need more reps than I usually would."

Getting reps has never been a problem for Simon. The problem has been settling on one position.

Last year, Simon was learning the nuances of strong-side linebacker. Simon was forced to focus on pass coverage responsibilities more than anytime previously in his career.

During his freshman season, Simon played three games for the injured Kevin Burnett at weak-side linebacker. Then, Simon suffered a season-ending injury of his own in the form of a broken ankle. In all, Simon will have played three positions in his three years at UT.

"The better ones can play all of them," Fulmer said. "From a versatility standpoint, he is one of the more talented guys that we've had."

"He studies extremely hard. I walk in all the time and he's in the linebacker meeting room watching college and pro tape trying to be the best player that he can be."

Fulmer said Simon's success is due to a combination of "great natural instincts" and work ethic.

Fulmer said those instincts are what cause Simon to overreact at times. Fulmer said the only remedy for Simon's over-aggressiveness is experience.

"He's played a lot and that should pay big dividends for him," Fulmer said.

The comparisons between Simon and former Vol Al Wilson are easy to draw. Both have the instincts, work ethic, and personality to be team leaders. Fulmer cautiously compares the two.

"He's going into his junior year and that's when Al really sprouted," Fulmer said. "We'll see. I hope he's close to thator better."