UT's McBride gives tackle a try

Sophomore Turk McBride, listed as the No. 2 left end behind Parys Haralson on the depth chart, moved from end to tackle for much of the game.

McBride says of his 35 to 40 snaps in the 42-17 victory against UNLV, the majority came at tackle.

"Really, I like both (positions), a little mix," McBride said. "I can definitely use my quickness down at tackle and use my strength on the outside, so I really enjoyed it."

McBride came to UT as a defensive end from Woodrow Wilson High School in Camden, N.J.

He played in eight games as true freshman last season, and in the spring of 2004 earned the Andy Spiva Award for most improved defensive player during spring drills.

Splitting time between end and tackle suits McBride just fine.

"Really, I didn't have any problem with it," he said. "I just wanted to help out the team. I mean, I'm all for it."

Listed at 6-foot-4 and 260 pounds, McBride might try to add a little bulk to his frame, but not too much; he doesn't want to sacrifice quickness for size.

He might not have the size of his counterparts at tackle - the Vols' top four down linemen are all listed at 300 pounds - but McBride makes up for lack of size with speed.

"I didn't think I was big enough (for the defensive line), but you know, I just use my quickness really," he said. "And I've got pretty good strength, so I think I'm OK."

McBride, who earned Parade and SuperPrep All-America honors in high school, maintains the same approach in practice, regardless of the position he's playing.

"I just want to go 100 percent every play when I'm practicing because I never know where I'm going to be at, so I just practice the same," he said.

He was expected to see action at both positions Saturday night at Florida.