It's time to right the ship again! Bring on the Commodores. Hold on captain, that crew caused a whole bunch of heartache last November. Of Tennessee's six setbacks last season, the loss to Vanderbilt was arguably the most disappointing. It guaranteed the Big Orange its first losing record since 1988. It also enabled UT's instate rival to beat big brother for the first time since 1982.

The loss was just UT coach Phillip Fulmer's first against the Commodores in 13 tries. Yes, unlucky 13, during a season where everything seemed to go wrong. Now, while much has gone right in 2006, a loss to the black and gold today would be even more devastating for a program making strides in its attempt to return to prominence. Just a few short weeks ago, the Vols were 7-1 and entertaining thoughts of a BCS bowl game. You know, coming off a 5-6 season, a 9-3 season sounded great at the start of the season.

Expectations aside, 9-3 still sounds quite good. It also sounds much better than 8-4 and a whole bunch better than 7-5.

Yes, it's the revenge of Randy Sanders as Kentucky comes into Neyland Stadium next week. Sure, a BCS bowl game and a shot at the SEC championship are gone, but still present, as the coaches and players say, is the work ethic and character needed to face the music.

After tripping on a Tigers' tail and then getting roasted by the Razorbacks, the Vols are, above all else, playing for pride. A five-letter word which takes on a different meaning this season. Along with a strong finish comes respect and the belief that a proud program is indeed headed back in the right direction.

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