QUARTERBACKS (B)

Rick Clausen showed poise and accuracy under pressure, directing the game-winning drive in the final minutes. Clausen also avoided being sacked, which shows he's getting rid of the ball quickly and calling proper protections.

RUNNING BACKS (A)

Cedric Houston and Gerald Riggs were the difference in the game. Houston is running as well as he has in his career, while Riggs is making his cuts with confidence and showing more burst than before. Fullback Cory Anderson is evolving into more of a weapon.

OFFENSIVE LINE (B)

No Michael Munoz made no difference, and that says a lot about the play of the line. Jason Respert's return provided a nice boost, and Albert Toeaina is starting to turn the corner. Richie Gandy and Arron Sears turned in blue-collar efforts. Rob Smith has been a rock.

RECEIVERS (B+)

Some uncharacteristic drops from Jayson Swain early, but Robert Meachem, C.J. Fayton and Tony Brown made up for it with nice plays. Downfield blocking is picking up. Fayton earned the receivers a plus with his pass to Meachem.

DEFENSIVE LINE (D)

Nice sack by Karlton Neal, but where was everyone else in this game? Parys Haralson saw his share of double teams and couldn't get to the QB. Teams are getting rid of the ball quickly, and that's neutralized Jesse Mahelona. Vols need Tony McDaniel and Turk McBride to step up.

LINEBACKERS (C)

Kentucky tight ends picked on the linebackers more than once. Jason Mitchell was more active, but still isn't making the plays he's capable of making, Kevin Burnett (10 tackles) is playing harder than anyone. Will Daniel Brooks be ready to contribute soon?

SECONDARY (D)

Shane Boyd looked like the second coming of John Elway. Soft coverage and inadequate tackling were the order of the day, as the secondary regressed without Roshaun Fellows in the lineup. Robert Boulware was replaced by Corey Campbell at strong safety. Jason Allen had 10 tackles, but missed others he could have made.

SPECIAL TEAMS (F)

Kicking and punting were a strength entering the year, but that's not the case now. No excuse for a blocked extra point and field goal, whether it's poor blocking or trajectory. Dustin Colquitt's only punt went 31 yards. Return game was littered with penalties.

OVERALL (C-)

Maybe it's not a lack of intensity. Maybe the Vols aren't as talented as most 9-2 teams. With backs to the wall, the Auburn game will tell the tale. Good job by the coaches, but the players haven't executed well since October. Somehow, they keep winning.