Tennessee coach Phillip Fulmer didn’t avoid Wednesday addressing a year-long quarterback controversy between Erik Ainge and Rick Clausen.

On Tuesday, Fulmer announced that Ainge would start in Saturday’s game for the Vols (3-4) against No. 8 Notre Dame (5-2).

"As well as we handled last year’s situation, and as smooth as it went — even to the point we’re down to third team and Rick comes in and plays fantastic — this one has just gone the other way," Fulmer said. "It has been real difficult for everyone concerned.

"If we hadn’t had some of our inefficiencies with penalties and turnovers and things going on, that might have settled it better."

"But the pressure of that, and the schedule, and injuries, those kinds of things were just a piece of the puzzle that made it very difficult to manage."

Injury Report: UT looks to be as healthy as even the most optimistic in the program had hoped.

"Good news," Fulmer said, "(Tailback) Arian Foster (knee) looks like he is going to be able to play. We’ve got a number of guys who have battled like heck to get themselves healthy.

"It looks like (offensive lineman) Rob Smith (shoulder) is going to be OK."

Greg’s Guys: Tight ends coach Greg Adkins said he’s pleased with his group’s progress this season.

"Chris Brown has really come on," Adkins said. "I’m really happy with where he has been. His role has increased as the year has gone on."

Brown has seven catches for 70 yards this season. Adkins said Brown has been a better run blocker than he’s often given credit for.

"He’s a scrappy, fighting competitor that will get after you in the run game," Adkins said of the 6-3, 239 pound Brown. "He’s gets somewhat overlooked because of his size.

"He’s been a very effective blocker for us this year."

Adkins said Brad Cottam will continue to play more now that he is healthy. The 6-8, 263 pound Cottam has played extensively on special teams this season.

Adkins said Cottam will play offense Saturday against Notre Dame.

Short-Term Sanders: Fulmer said he was pleased with UT quarterbacks coach Randy Sanders, just days after announcing his resignation as offensive coordinator, effective at the end of the season.

"Randy has done a great job of being really upbeat and moving around and excited about the challenge," Fulmer said. "I think the kids have responded accordingly.

"Randy’s still working hard, making sure the I’s are dotted and the T’s are crossed. I’m sure he’s going on adrenaline to help get this football team back on its feet."

Mark Burgess contributed to this report.