It is troubled times in Tennessee. proud program attempts to fight through adversity, but then again, isn't that the mark of a true champion? The best can win when the chips are down, but in this case, it hasn't been one game. Instead, it's been an entire season which the Vols must work to overcome. Many, especially those directly involved, are confused as to how this downward spiral could have happened in the first place.

Well, the first step is admitting that it did happen. There are many who refuse to accept reality and the fact that Tennessee will finish with a losing record this season, the team's first since 1988 I kept hearing about this talented team on the verge of something special. All I saw were some talented individuals on a not so very "good" team.

That's the only way you can explain Kentucky scoring 48 points on Vanderbilt and the Vols only being able to muster half that total against the Commodores. This Tennessee team needs an upgrade. They're expected to get one at the offensive coordinator position and that's a start. But there are many other concerns. For instance, who will that coordinator entrust with running his offense? New coordinator or not, if the Vols don't get better at the quarterback position, this team will be right back in this situation next season.

I'm not a Vandy fan, but it was a pleasure to watch Jay Cutler and the command he had of that Commodore unit. Confidence in the system, oneself, and the so called field general are key to turning things around. So is paying attention to detail. Making sure the little things are take care of will help improve the big picture and help a proud program overcome adversity and start it back on it's way to regaining that championship form.

Rick Russo is sports director for WVLT Volunteer TV Sports Overtime. Read his blog on govolsxtra.com.