• UT'S ID: Tennessee coach Phillip Fulmer said "exciting" when asked to describe UT's identity this season.

"I think they've got everybody in this state excited that supports Tennessee football," Fulmer said. "

Fulmer said big plays have been the hallmark of this team. Not all have been to his liking. He said he hopes to correct some of those "exciting" plays that his defense has given up.

• Tailback Talk: Running back coach Trooper Taylor said he is pleased with his running backs' week of practice.

"They only rushed for four yards last year (against Auburn)," Taylor said. "They want to do better than that."

Taylor said the media attention paid to Auburn's running backs can only help to serve as motivation.

"They're going to read the papers some," Taylor said. "I don't think our fans are sitting there saying, ‘I'd swap him for that one.' If they do, shame on them ? I hope on Sunday morning they'll be talking good about these (UT) backs."

Freshman running back Arian Foster played the part of Auburn tailback Carnell Williams on UT's scout team this week.

• Balance Attack: Fulmer said an offensive coach's job is made much easier by having a balanced attack between the run and pass. Fulmer said desirable down-and-distance and a high pass completion percentage are two keys to attaining offensive balance.

"We're playing a team that's doing the same thing," Fulmer said. "They're very effective. It should be a very interesting thing to watch Saturday. Who can execute the best? This game is paramount."

• Checking Defensive Tackles: Fulmer said UT's defensive tackles were ahead of where they were at the same time in 2003.

"I think from a quality standpoint, Justin Harrell and Jesse Mahelona have done very well," Fulmer said. "Tony McDaniel has done pretty well. We just don't have any depth there."

• Eight Ready: Fulmer said he felt comfortable with three backups behind UT's starting five offensive linemen.

Fulmer said junior Richie Gandy, junior Albert Toeaina, and senior Chuck Prugh are ready to play if needed.

"Eight guys, that's about as many as we've ever had," Fulmer said. "We've got some youngsters but they're not ready unless something bad happens."

• Recruiting: The Vols are not planning to have any official visitors this weekend but will have several taking in the sights unofficially.

• Hometown Guy: Former Maryville High School running back Carl Stewart is awaiting his opportunity for more playing time at Auburn. Stewart ran for 91 yards on 11 carries against The Citadel last week. He scored one touchdown.

"I think he's progressed very well," Maryville coach George Quarles said. "It looks like he's fit in. He's been excited when I've talked to him. It seems they have plans for him. The future looks good for him."

Stewart is behind Tiger tailbacks Carnell Williams and Ronnie Brown in the Tiger tailback rotation. Both are seniors.