Maybe Trooper Taylor didn't get the memo.

Tennessee football coaches almost unanimously have been guarded about dishing out praise and talking of high expectations this spring.

Consider it a lesson learned after a No. 3 preseason ranking turned into a 5-6 reality in 2005.

Taylor is a different breed, though.

He's an optimist at heart and he doesn't mind telling anyone within earshot he thinks better days are ahead for UT.

The offense might have struggled in scrimmage work last week, but the Vols' receivers coach says give it time.

"I'm telling you, the tight ends and wide receivers can line up anywhere," said Taylor, who was moved from running backs coach. "That's what is fun with this offense.

"They enjoy it. Come see how many kids are coming over here on their own to watch tape. It's unbelievable."

Taylor not only wants to see that kind of enthusiasm, he demands it.

His receivers are getting a crash course in accountability.

Dropped passes are greeted with extra running and up-downs after practices.

Managers have counters to keep track of how many catches each receiver makes during the day. The number has to reach 100 before their day is finished.

Taylor also credits new offensive coordinator David Cutcliffe with creating a new energy.

"We're doing so much right now so we can find out what we're good at," Taylor said. "When we hone it down, you guys are going to be excited about what you see.

"Coach Cutcliffe is the best thing since sliced bread. It's fast-break football. It hasn't been like this since Tulane," said Taylor, referring to a previous stint as a receivers coach there. "It's not three yards and a cloud of dust."

Break Time: The Vols have the entire week off for spring break.

UT coach Phillip Fulmer had some common-sense advice for his departing players.

"I told them to be careful, behave themselves and go by and see their (high school) coaches while they're home," Fulmer said. "And don't come back sunburned."

UT returns to the practice field March 28. The Orange and White game is scheduled for April 8 at 2 p.m.

Chow Time: Tennessee Titans offensive coordinator Norm Chow is the featured speaker of UT's annual coaching clinic March 31-April 1.

Chow coached 32 years at the collegiate level before joining the Titans last season.

He coach three Heisman Trophy winners (Matt Leinart, Carson Palmer and Ty Detmer) and helped teams win three national titles (BYU in 1984 and Southern Cal in 2003, 2004).

Chow will give his talk March 31 at 10 a.m.

UT strength and conditioning coach Johnny Long is another featured speaker.

Coaches wanting more information can visit www.utsports.com or call the Tennessee football office at 865-974-1234.

Mark Burgess covers Tennessee football and can be reached at 865-342-6277.