Posted by knoxdaniel on December 2, 2007 at 1:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)

It was a great game. We have one more game...let's win the bowl game!

Posted by JETnTN on December 2, 2007 at 1:17 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Just got in from ATL..... Defense was great, MAYO please come back next year, Ainge....go out with a big win in the bowl game..... I'd rather you force one trying to make something instead of no effort to score... Thanks for the 4 years its been a wild ride!!

Posted by DenmarkVol_aka_Mbumburu on December 2, 2007 at 1:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Erik, ignore the fools out here. The vast majority of us know very well what you've meant to this program during your time at UT. And we'll always be proud.

Always remember the great wins you led us to and always remember that you're a Volunteer for life.

Shake it off and move on.

Posted by bluetickhound on December 2, 2007 at 1:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)

What an attitude adjustment from this kid. I have nothing but respect for the guy considering where his head was at 2 years ago at this time. It's just tragic that he had to go out like this. If we're wanting to point fingers, how 'bout one for a conspicuously absent J. Hefney. Or maybe one towards Danny Lincoln who's early success made him a little lazy down the stretch. The point is that there's no one finger point to make.

Posted by GatorhatinUTfan on December 2, 2007 at 1:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Freakin ORANGE PANTS!! I blame it all on the orange pants!! We never play well in orange freakin pants!!!

Posted by volsfan327 on December 2, 2007 at 1:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Well, I for one am glad to see Ainge go! I blame him for this lose (although, we really don't do well in the orange pants!) Defense was great, hard hitting all they way. No penalties..it was Ainge period. He always made me nervous, nothing new. We deserved the win. Good Bye Eric...and don't tell me how he got us this far...with all the talent around the q/b position, I could have put up his numbers.

Posted by MemphisVol on December 2, 2007 at 1:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I loved the orange pants. put the stripes back on them though. tough, tough loss. WIN THE BOWL GAME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by GatorhatinUTfan on December 2, 2007 at 1:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I agree 327 without screen passes and YAC yards his numbers are not impressive. He really just wasn't reading well at all tonight starting with the first TD pass.

Posted by Feared_Mustang_Package on December 2, 2007 at 2:01 a.m. (Suggest removal)

"He was trying to make plays," tight end Chris Brown said. "We'd rather him try to make plays than be conservative back there and take a sack or throw the ball away. He was just making the plays."

________________________________________________

If throwing the ball in the stands was a stat Ainge would be leading the Nation.

Posted by ColumbusVol on December 2, 2007 at 2:15 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Granted Ainge's throws lost the game...but given the fact that our team was not even supposed to be here, i would say we were successful. To think that this 21 year old whose receivers cant catch a ball that hits them in the chest, can stand up and take the blame says more about him than our critiques. There isn't anyone in this forum that would do the same. Ainge is a victim of circumstance and bad timing. He needed Cutcliff from day one and only then he could have been Manningesque. With any hope our team will win a bowl game for once and go into next year with a decent and season group.

Posted by nicksjuzunk on December 2, 2007 at 2:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Mentally, this team will be stronger next year. They are pulling together behind their QB when everyone is ready to hang him from the tree.

He made two bad decisions but they know the meaning of a team and realize there were other opportunities to win as well.

If they stay close knit like this and get better in the off season, I expect this to be a very mature and talented team.

Thanks for 4 years Erik! All the best after you light up the bowl game!!

Posted by volsfan327 on December 2, 2007 at 2:25 a.m. (Suggest removal)

ColumbusVol are you Eric's mom? Not only should we have been in Atlanta, we should have won! I for one am not satisfied with so/so season's. With the money (2nd only to Nebraska in athletic dollars), fan support (2nd to none) and talent, we should be consistantly in the Top 25 and dare I say Top 10. It has been a very long dry spell without an SEC victory. I am disappointed for the team tonight, they deserved better. Yes, hopefully we win a bowl game but I think the future looks bright for our team and I am very excited about next season. We won't have to face two opponents next season, the other team and Ainge!

Posted by chrisw2967 on December 2, 2007 at 2:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I dont think the color of pants has anything to do with wins or loses but I did like them.
You either com prepared to play and win or you dont and ever who makes the least mistakes wins the game. We made 2 costly mistakes that cost us the game.
The sad part of it all the def. came together and played lights out and the off. just didnt or couldnt adjust to LSUs def. and that goes on Cut.
but I dont think the color of pants or the dome ha anything to do with anything. If we had won it wouldnt of been because of the orange pants.
this is like the 5th or 6th posts I seen that says we dont play well in orange pants or the dome. we were wearing white pants when we lost 3 of our 4 games this year. Berry and Mayo are the real deal.

Posted by volsfan327 on December 2, 2007 at 2:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Really Chris, you don't think it't the pants?!?!? I think everyone was just joking..it's been a long, long day. Nobody really wants to diss the team, just tired..so blame it on the pants...sounds good to me :)

Posted by chrisw2967 on December 2, 2007 at 2:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)

volsfan327 I guess your right lol been a long day and I apologize to everyone .
just still mad I guess. Go Vols and dont lay down in the bowl game

Posted by volsfan327 on December 2, 2007 at 3:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)

No apology needed, all Vols understand, a quiet somber silence is really what we need. There just aren't enough words..........there is no joy in vol town :(

Posted by volsrock54 on December 2, 2007 at 3:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Ainge lost this game. You can play up all the good guy you want to. He single handedly lost this game. Maybe Crompton will be available for the bowl game. Go Vols!

Posted by rodneyadms on December 2, 2007 at 3:52 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Cutcliffe said
1. " I put us in harms way"
2."I don't think I put them in the right situation to be successful"
3."I didn't punch the right buttons"
????..Why are we paying him again?

Posted by cwisenhower on December 2, 2007 at 4:11 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm just happy we made it to the SEC championship. We are actually supposed to be the #2 team in the SEC considering the facts. Ainge made some bad throws, but oh well. All QB's make bad throws. Yeah, his showed up at inopportune times, but I'd rather have him throwing than anyone else in the league. I think it was a horrible play call. I hate LSU, but it looks like they might get the National Championship bid, so I'm pulling for them. I just hope we get a New Year's Bowl. Go Vols. You've got a whole month to shake it off and impress in the bowl game. I love my Vols and Erik Ainge. Go Vols!!!

Posted by dlravol2 on December 2, 2007 at 6:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Another LOSS to another disappointing season and we'll probably lose the bowl game.Am I being too negative?We played like heck against a darn good team.Let's give Phil a raise and extension.

Posted by eb502us on December 2, 2007 at 6:25 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Cutcliffe is dead on, he's the main reason we lost. His dink and dunk offense could make Peyton Manning look like well......Erik Ainge. Ainge has the physical ability to be a good QB, but I'm just not sure mentally he "gets it". Part of that is on Cutcliffe who is so overated in the minds of the media, it's sickening. And yes, he rarely puts the QB in a position to be successful. While I thank Ainge for four years of trying, my advice to him is to get his degree, because unless something drastic happens, the NFL is no more than a pipe dream.

Posted by vol52 on December 2, 2007 at 7:02 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Quintin Hancock should have ran the wrong route as he did in Lexington which resulted in a TD. Our offense is limp at best.

Posted by imnotwithphil on December 2, 2007 at 7:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)

"I put us in harm's way, obviously, in the second half when we needed a play," Cutcliffe said. "I don't think I put them in the right situations to be successful. "I never punched the right buttons."

Hey Dave Hooker - here's an example of a real man. He's not hiding behind his QB. He's stepping up and taking the blame. While I don't think Cutliffe is a very good coach, he is at least a good and honorable man... which means he would never make it as a sportswriter for the KNS.

And BTW Coach "Cut" - this one *was* your fault.

Posted by imnotwithphil on December 2, 2007 at 7:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)

rodneyadms -

We pay Cutliffe the same two reasons we pay Fulmer: (1) They are good ole boys and (2) mediocre is good enough for the Philbilly Nation.

Posted by CrankE on December 2, 2007 at 7:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I was there and am disappointed in some of the decisions he made. The safety valve pass to Foster (7 yards behind the line). Throw it away, at least we don't lose yards. I could see the first interception coming before he threw it. The pass was slow and the reciever had to wait. The exact wrong thing to do. On the final INT, he threw into double coverage. Sigh. Again, we're talking about a senior QB. Overcoming one INT was doable for this team. Not two. I certainly can't question his heart, but I wouldn't expect those kinds of decisions from a 4 year starter.

And don't get me started on Lincoln. He's fizzled some down the stretch here. 2 FGs would have allowed UT to take the lead there at the end with an FG instead of tying with a touchdown.

Posted by fencevol on December 2, 2007 at 7:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Given our past Bowl record, we will quite possibly be a "5" loss team. We got HAMMERED by medioce Cal an AL teams. Vol Fans, we are a very average team, and get used to it. The elite SEC
teams are younger(yes younger,check the rosters), tougher and better coached. With the exception of Coach Taylor, I really can't even fathom raises and extensions.

Posted by 4VolsnVA on December 2, 2007 at 7:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Erik has given UT his best. Last night was a tough loss for Vol fans, but from reading Erik's comments, I think it was far tougher for him. We still have another game to play. Go Vols.

Posted by TommyJack on December 2, 2007 at 8:01 a.m. (Suggest removal)

imnotwithphil: Totally agree. Our fanbase is in denial with respect to the coaching. I feel for the PLAYERS. Huge effort, HUGE heart. I see nothing changing. The fact that we "got there" (CG game) is NOT enough. That LSU team was limping in on one wheel and ready to be plucked. Just getting there SHOULD NOT BE GOOD ENOUGH for our fans. Mediocre? At best.

Posted by k0605 on December 2, 2007 at 8:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Ainge can't be blamed entirely for the loss. The interception for a td was a plain ole bad pass. He couldn't see the LB on the 2nd int.
But what about the play calling on offense and the defense not being able to get off the field? They gave up several long 3rd down conversions. Seemed like alot of dropped passes too. Some poor tackling at times. Plus 2 field goals missed. There's enough blame to go around.
The game was there for the Vols, but despite LSU missing their starting qb, running back, wide receiver and defensive lineman, LSU had better talent and coaching.
The Vols were much more physical though which was great to see.

Posted by cstepesq on December 2, 2007 at 8:30 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Coaching had absolutely nothing to do with this loss. Fulmer and Company didn't drop passes and throw interceptions.

Posted by Plasticman on December 2, 2007 at 8:30 a.m. (Suggest removal)

And now LSU will get to play for it all vs. Ohio St. Unvelievable the turn of events. The LSU fans I talked to were hoping Miles would go to Michigan. I think LSU wins in spite of Miles. They are the most talented team in the country along with USC. Vols actually shouldn't have even been in the game with them. Flynn not playing actually hurt us more than it helped us. Perriloux is twice the QB Flynn is. LSU fans I sat next to said Perriloux has not been able to stay out of trouble, and that is why he hasn't been playing.

Posted by B_A_VOL on December 2, 2007 at 8:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I've been a Vol all of my life. I watched Carl Kremser miss a field goal in the '67 Orange Bowl and we lost by 2 to Oklahoma. I watched the miracle in South Bend and the '86 Sugar Bowl. It is just ball and as a true fan I will not rip a 21 year old kid. People who can write derogatory things about Ainge need to re-assess their own crap. We gave it our best effort and lost. That's all there is to it. GO VOLS!!!!!

Posted by alkhall on December 2, 2007 at 8:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I went to bed last night sick to my stomach...and woke up with the same feeling. Our defense kept us in the game and only gave up 13 points. Ainge was erratic...he seemed rattled on some plays. They should have used Cromptom more. YES..the receivers did drop critical passes. But the LSU players Ainge threw to did not drop the ball. Play calling was suspect at times but you have to point the finger at the offense..and Ainge is the leader of the offense! I do not expect UT to win the bowl game. I hate to be negative..but its the truth.

Posted by rwagner42 on December 2, 2007 at 8:41 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I think I know why people make fun of UT fans so much, we back up the fact that we look like idiots with comments such as "Ainge single handedly lost the game for us". GUY's YOU CAN'T BLAME IT ON TWO PLAYS!!! Granted he definitely didn't win the game for us when we needed it, but he is not the reason we lost. Field Goals, Running game, Play Calling, Route Running, And Ainge's poor decision making down the stretch... There are a ton of things we could have done to not put ourselves in that situation! At the end of the day he didn't win it for us, like he had done the past 3 out of 4 games we played (Remember those... wouldn't have been playing last night if not for him)... Any IQ over 1st grade level understands this concept.

Posted by Volfan1 on December 2, 2007 at 8:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)

B_A_VOL
Couldn't have said it better. I was a broken hearted teenager when Kremser missed that kick, and when Wright missed in '66 against Bama. 99.9% of the people on this site who say they "would have done this," "we should have done that," ad nauseum, have NEVER been in a situation as a 21 year old, or probably in their lives, like Ainge and this TEAM were last night. The critics are clueless whiners who have no life.
Thanks for the exciting roller coaster ride Vols! It was fun and got us to Atlanta, where 10 other SEC teams would have liked to have been.

Posted by tennisvol on December 2, 2007 at 8:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Not the only reason UT lost, but one of the big reasons. You throw an interception for a TD for the other team and you throw another when your team is driving for a TD.

Posted by jopad on December 2, 2007 at 8:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Did any of you ever make a mistake? Yes the interceptions did lead to the Vols losing the game but some of you are like a pack of mad dogs who all join in attacking a vunerable smaller dog. Eric Ainge probably feels worse about the interceptions than any of us. He has given his total effort in in trying to win this game and the best some of you has to give is your venemous criticism of this young man. Just remember people, football is not a matter of life and death, it's a game, no more and no less. Let up on Eric Ainge and support him and the team.

Posted by TommyJack on December 2, 2007 at 8:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Granted the color of the pants has no bearing on who wins, BUT...the orange on orange is AWFUL.
Looks like a JUCO team...or maybe Arena Ball.
Yuck.

Posted by movol77 on December 2, 2007 at 9:23 a.m. (Suggest removal)

"Coach blamers" are NOT with the players on the team. Don't even try to align yourselves as being their defenders. The only game you guys are experts at is the "Blame/Shame Game."

Posted by TommyJack on December 2, 2007 at 9:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)

movol: What a moronic point of view. Let me get this straight...if you question the coaching, you're not for the team...is that what you're saying?

Posted by budd on December 2, 2007 at 9:31 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Who called the plays Ainge ran? Was it him? No it was our vaunted OC coach cut. He had no game plan for a defense missing its best player and who had been trashed by KY and AR. Did he even bother to watch the films of those games? Ainge didn't lose this game cutcliff did. No game plan. 14 points on a damaged defense with a coach who was leaving. That is on coaching plain and simple. And anyone who blames Ainge does not know the first thing about college football

Posted by dfreeman on December 2, 2007 at 9:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)

it's not like Ryan P is just some chump! He IS better than Matt Flynn!! I think if Matt Flynn plays we win! Dorsey being out didn't help them, but every player on that line is going to be in the NFL. Bottom line, we played a deeply talented team and lost, but we played with heart and they know we smacked them in the mouth.

Posted by splinterdand on December 2, 2007 at 9:52 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Not just Ainge, but how about Arian Foster. Those guys have more class than everyone posting here lumped together.

Posted by licknpromise777 on December 2, 2007 at 10:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)

As soon as the CBS commentator said the vols had made no turn overs and commited no penalties; Ainge threw a game breaking interception for a touchdown..it was so typically ironic I almost threw the TV in the pool!!!

Posted by powert on December 2, 2007 at 10:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I agree with GatorhatinUTfan. The all orange needs to be given the death penalty. Enough with the popsicle look. Please. Never again.

Posted by jonathan81254 on December 2, 2007 at 10:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Love the team, love the team's support for Ainge, and their togetherness. Love Phil Fulmer and Cutcliffe, who are great coaches and very good men. LSU was just the better team, even with their penalties and injuries. Statistics don't tell the story, as we all know, but when you look at the box score, it's pretty amazing that it was this close, and that UT had a very good chance to win. To me, that -- plus the absence of penalties -- is coaching. Tenn has much better talent than some of the posters here acknowledge, but LSU has amazing talent. That we were this close says much about all associated with UT, including Ainge. I hate to lose, but I love to lose with class if we have to do it. Ainge and his teammates showed that. Unlike some of the people who post on this site.

Posted by volntx on December 2, 2007 at 10:30 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Sure its Ainges fault,that does not make me a Vol hater,just a fact. If he holds the ball past a count of 3 there will be no completion. He does not read the defense when he is in the pocket,he has already made his mind up pre snap before he throws the ball. That is why we have to dink and dunk because if he dropped back and read the coverage the tuba player would be the leading reciever. And heaven forbid if the D blitzes or gets to close there will not be a completion. Hey Eric it is football you are supposed to get hit,stand in the pocket step up and take the hit for a completion. I'll take Casey Clausen any day over Ainge,at least he wasn't scared. Glad Ainge and Jonathan "Toast" Hefney are seniors so I don't have to watch them play any more.

Posted by bigsid4 on December 2, 2007 at 10:31 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I would like to say thanks to our entire team for making major improvements during this season. Our future looks very bright in Rocky Top! Not to mention, a brilliant coaching scheme by Phillip and staff. Our defense whipped LSU and the offense had chances to win the game. Next year if we return everyone, I dont see why a National Title would be out of our grasp next year!

#7 J.Mayo PLEASE COMEBACK FOR 1 MORE. I see you becoming even better, something like Al Wilson or even better in your future!! Go Vols from Atoka, TN...

Posted by Canpflier on December 2, 2007 at 10:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)

HEY VOLSFAN327! You couldn't throw a football in a major college program if your life depended on it, with or without the talent surrounding Ainge. You couldn't have a 65% completion rate picking your nose! What in your life experience leads you to fantasize that you are in any way qualified to criticize any of the coaches or players on this team? Ainge has already, at the age of 21-22, accomplished more at a higher level than you will in your entire life.

Does that put your "criticism" in context for you and your idiot friends?

Posted by SpringCityVol on December 2, 2007 at 10:39 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I don't blame Ainge for the loss; I blame the coaches for leaving him in as a starter. We have endured four years of Eric's listless mediocrity. We haven't won a single game because of his ability, we have won in spite of it. He was right to apologize after the game, but not for the interceptions that cost us a win. What he should have apologized for is not demanding to be benched. For Cutcliff to flack for Ainge's ineptitude is heart warming but falls woefully short on the mea culpa scale. He basically said he couldn't dumb the offense down enough for his four year starter to make a play that could win a game against a crippled defense. Nice work coach and good luck at your next job...oh wait, I forgot you're not leaving because nobody else wants you either.

Posted by TommyJack on December 2, 2007 at 10:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)

canpflier: Are you Ainge's daddy?

Posted by Canpflier on December 2, 2007 at 10:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Naw, but I would say I'm YOUR daddy!

Posted by CatScratchFever on December 2, 2007 at 10:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Hey vol fans, cheer up. There is always the future. Just STAY THE COURSE and POUND THE ROCK. Maybe you will make it back to an SEC title game in 5 more years.

Posted by Pullingguard on December 2, 2007 at 10:49 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Regardless of what is said, fact is; Cutcliff called a game that anyone could have called, nothing new or anything that extended the defense. Ainge just had a bad game, when the pressure is on in a big game he becomes skittish and evidently scared of the assumed pressure, bad passes, bad decisions maybe resulting from Cutcliff making bad call selection but Ainge should have seen the coverage. The offense did not play a good game. Defense had lot of give but did not break and showed themselves well. Not sure about Cutcliff being good offensive coordinatior in todays world of college football.

Posted by volnmdtn on December 2, 2007 at 10:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)

He is a SENIOR quarterback and should be able to make better decision on the field with the game on the line. I would not expect that from an underclassman. So, who is to blame for this? How about trying the coaching staff!. Is it not the head coaches job to get his team prepared for all possible situations. Did that happenen in this game?

So what is the solution to this loss? Athletic Director Hamilton believes we should give Fulmer a raise and a contract extension for losing 4 and maybe 5 games this year. Did I mention that we lost 3 of these games by more than 20 points!!

I am at a loss of words for what needs to take place. I have been and will remain a Vols fan for more that 54 years. I guess it comes down to where YOUR loyality belongs. Is it to Fulmer or is it to the University?

Posted by CatScratchFever on December 2, 2007 at 10:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Oh the bitterness of defeat. The lost hope in NO future whatsoever for this team.

Mediocrity has a new poster child(ren)...it is the tennessee vols football team.

Posted by ggriggs939 on December 2, 2007 at 10:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Who would have received the credit if the VOLS had won the game? Nobody gives the LSU defense credit for having the smarts to have defended the plays that were called. Strange that the VOLS receive accolades for a great defense, which it was, but LSU's great defense gets no credit at all, even though it is one of the best in the country. It is a shame the VOLS have such a sorry bunch of fans who think they know so much, but do nothing but second guess and show a strong prejudice against the coaching staff.

Posted by CatScratchFever on December 2, 2007 at 10:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)

It's pretty pathetic when you have to go looking for moral victories hey vols??

Posted by CatScratchFever on December 2, 2007 at 10:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)

You know what they say about second place...you are the first loser!

Posted by volnmdtn on December 2, 2007 at 11:01 a.m. (Suggest removal)

ggreggs,
Go on and get your tickets for next year. I do believe we will be better that this year because we do have players with TALENT. We do not have the coaching to take them to a higher level. They have not klept up with the times. Football stragegy has changes since the 1980's.

Also, don't expect to go to a BCS Bowl or WIN an SEC Championship with this coaching staff. Say what you will and be please with a contined 9 and 5 or 8 and 6 team you loser!!!

Posted by bedmagic_23 on December 2, 2007 at 11:02 a.m. (Suggest removal)

As coach, I have to point out that all these guys are covering for Quintin Hancock. I don't think Hancock should be vilified or anything, but I'm sure Trooper has taught him the basics and there's a big leason for Quintin, the rest of the receiving corps, and future UT receivers. As a receiver the first thing you have to do on most routes and espeically on ins and outs, is treaten the DB up the field and get him to turn his hips. Hancock hadn't been a factor in the offense to that point and it looked as if he didn't expect Ainge to throw it to him. He had a lazy release off the line and the DB never turned his hips and then he made a lazy cut on the in. An in-route in that circumstance shouldn't be that risky. If Hancock runs the route properly the worst case scenario should be that the WR and DB arrive at the same time for a big collision, not the DB being able to jump in front of you so badly that you can't knock the ball down or attempt to tackle him. Good QBs are taught to trust their receivers and that's what Ainge did. Hancock let him down on that one.

Posted by volntx on December 2, 2007 at 11:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Hancock did all those things,that is true,but the crossing pattern was wide open right in front of Ainge. Why did he throw to LSU? He made his mind up pre snap as usual.

Posted by ncvol17 on December 2, 2007 at 11:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Anybody think post Ole Miss Cutcliffe is no where near the play caller Pre Cutcliffe was? Where has the Offensive play calling magic and high powered offense gone?

Posted by vol_in_lsu_land on December 2, 2007 at 11:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I sure hope Mayo comes back for more, but I'll be honest if I were him I'd get as far away from this idiot fan base as I could and put UT in my rearview mirror.

Posted by houvol on December 2, 2007 at 11:13 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I am glad we made it to the SEC Championship. We were an 8 point underdog and blew the game. The interceptions killed us. Tn. lost this game. LSU did not win it. LSU played conservative and our O line did not do a good job in the first half. I hope we can win our bowl game this year. Sad to say but this is the last year of being proud of our effort. It is time to be back in the top 5. Excuse years are over.

Posted by SpringCityVol on December 2, 2007 at 11:19 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Idiocy should not be confused with passion, unless the passion has proven itself idiotic.

Posted by vol_in_lsu_land on December 2, 2007 at 11:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I like the orange pants with the orange jerseys. I was hoping that it might jazz the team mentally and get them pumped up (every little thing helps)....and my impression was that they did play physical and inspired football.

I think it's funny to see the pot-shots at Cutcliffe. Only 6 weeks ago it was Chavis who was the idiot and now Chief is the hero. It's just like my friend at work says, in CF today you don't get evaluated for the body of the season, you get evaluated for each INDIVIDUAL GAME and sometimes even the HALF or the QUARTER. (ie USC, Vandy)

I'm glad I'm not a coach.

Posted by callen825 on December 2, 2007 at 11:25 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Once a VOL, always a VOL. We take the bad with the good, always. Eric Ainge has been fun to watch, but then I've never seen a TN team that wasn't fun...thanks for the memories, and here's to a great future.
I am very pleased that our team is young and shows so much promise. Go win our bowl game, and if we play Wisconsin, please don't get beat by another Big 10 team!
Vol in Ohio.

Posted by coachinhoops on December 2, 2007 at 11:34 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Is it me or did our wild hog set work for big gains 4 out of 5 times we ran it. I don't understand why we didn't run it more. That is the only question I have about the coaching scheme.

Whoever said that we should have played Crompton more is way off. Ainge has clearly been the better QB. I think Crompton will be ready next year though.

Bedmajic made a good point about Hancocks rout. I thought he should have met the pass, resulting in an incompletion. He just lazily turned and stopped.

In any case. Great season so far vols. I hope we win our bowl game to give us some momentum for next season.

Posted by grvol on December 2, 2007 at 11:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Ainge telegraphs every p[ass he throws. As soon as he takes the snap he stares down the receiver the entire 5-10 yard route then throws it. He will never start a down in the NFL doing that. Maybe 3-4 years of NFL coaching can help.

Posted by sweet_babyjames on December 2, 2007 at 12:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Thanks to Ainge for a fun (and at times wild) season, and congrats to him for maturing from a kid into an adult in his 4 years at UT. Still one more game to go, and I wish him and the Vols a great game and all the Seniors best wishes for whatever awaits them after the season.

Go Vols!

Posted by acevol on December 2, 2007 at 12:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Part of growing up is taking blame for what is your own fault. Good job for Eric taking the blame because it is on his shoulders. I didn't see Crompton throw the interceptions. I didn't see Gerald Jones throw them. Let's see, I didn't see Bolden throw them. Fulmer? Nope. Trooper? Nope. Cutcliffe? Nope. Mayo? Eric threw two of the easiest picks I've ever seen him throw. As a quarterback, especially a SENIOR QB, you have to be able to read the defense. on the first that resulted in a pick 6, he shouldve realized that the db didn't not retreat, we stayed and played up. He basically threw it to him.

I'm sorry guys, but lets stop sugar coating this stuff. It is what it is. Our defense played great to win and our offense did put together drives in which resulted in 2 missed field goals and two interceptions which cost the vols the game.

Posted by eduardo on December 2, 2007 at 12:29 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Nice job Ainge! Just like when you threw the ball out of the back of the end zone down at LSU a couple of years ago. A little girl could of done a better job of throwing the ball. Man you just not mentally tough enough, but considering the pitiful coaching staff we have in place you did the best you could. Can anyone see the similarities between the Foolmer and Buzzie boy Peterson propaganda machines. I can't believe former players had to come out of the wood work to claim their support for this bunch. Where are they today. Maybe they buy some space in the paper on Monday. Get them outtttttttta heeeeeere!The rebellion is on!!!!!!!!

Posted by volinexile on December 2, 2007 at 12:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I know I'm just one of many, but I feel like UT will be a better team next year without Ainge. While I like him and I'm impressed with his development and maturity, I'm ready for a player to come in and play with some heart. The pundits say that it's great that Ainge only had 3 or 4 sacks on the year. I say that shows he has no heart. He never stepped into throws when a safety was about to come barreling into him. Instead he threw it away when the safety was still 4 yards away. I don't think Crompton is as skilled as Ainge by any means, but I think that Crompton is as good if not better than Tee Martin and that UT will be greatly improved on offense next year.

Posted by sticknmove15 on December 2, 2007 at 12:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Everybody questioning Ainge's heart and skill: That's why he's about to get drafted, and you're in the stands and in the forum running your mouth and doing nothing but getting fat.

Posted by tenken on December 2, 2007 at 1:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

You all need to get off Erik's back. He is a damn good qb. What the heck has Crompton done whenever he stated? NOTHING but lose. You guys will see next year whenever he starts for us. You will miss Erik. I will admit he made a poor decision that kept us out of contention for but we would not be here if it wasn't for him. I think that is what Foster is saying. Then win and lose as team. It was a hard fought game. Remember it took one score to win that game........LSU scored twenty one points. Not just seven. Someone gave up fourteen points..........hmm........lets see.....defense. Now who will say that the defense lost this game....no one because we saw them play their hearts out towards the end of the game but because Erik's mistakes came at the end he gets all the blame. Erik is projected by the way for you idiots saying he won't make it on Sundays to go three to four in the draft out of the QB this year. He was ranked over Andre Woodson main reaon is because HE IS A GOOD DECISION MAKER! Like all of us can do he made a very poor decision that hurt us but we still finished first in the SEC East. We still most likely will have a ten win season. And if any of you fools cannot see that this is a successful season just look at all the teams winnings and losses. It pure madness. Ever team with the excpetion of Hawaii, Kansas, and OSU(who didn't play very tough schedules) has lost at least two games. You guys need to learn what a true fan is all about. You need to take some lessons from these guys wearing the orange every Saturday because ultimately we should feel bad for them not ourselves. They are the ones sacrificing their bodies for us daily. Give them a freaking break people. Grow up. Get a life and don't base hapiness on how the Tennesse Vols do in football games.

Posted by acevol on December 2, 2007 at 1:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Umm...IF het gets drafted, it will be late. He will never see the NFL playing field. Tell me what kind of skills he has that gives him a shot at the nfl. He can't throw the deep ball. He hasn't all year and when he has, it was short. He puts too much air under the ball. Sure, he can throw the 5 yard outs, the quick slants, a screen and a dink and dunk. That's it. He can't throw the deep ins, outs, crossing, comebacks....thats why they developed the quick offense. That's why they taught him not to hold the ball for more than 2-3 seconds. To avoid sacks and long passes he can't throw or control.

He hasn't been and is not that good.

Posted by volsfan327 on December 2, 2007 at 1:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Stick, have a great time following Ainge's career, invest in his football cards, buy a poster whatever, you think he is a good emotional and financial investment? I am sure his mom could use the help promoting him.

Posted by mbradshaw1 on December 2, 2007 at 1:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The whole team has taken blame for the loss. I thought they played very inspired football last night. Eric also had some balls dropped that should have been a completion. The national media did not even give us a chance in hell to even be in this game, but in fact they should have won the game. I'm going to stand behind this team and all of the coaches right to the end because I am 100% VOLUNTEER!!!!

GO VOLS !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by sgtvols on December 2, 2007 at 1:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

we have great coaches, great players, great fans, great facilities. did i l leave out anything, oh yeah, 9 years of not winning an sec, 9 years of not winning a bcs bowl. in the last 9 yeras we have fired 3-4 basketball coaches and our baseball coach of 16 years..why? because they couldn't win an sec. fulmer is not ut/ fulmer is a man hired to get ut into champioship games and win them. he is doing neither. we owe nothing to fulmer, we have made him a millionaire many times over, he owes us a top ten program. i want my money's worth.

Posted by jcvet on December 2, 2007 at 1:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I guess ole Buttcliff will get a big pay raise too. It's no wonder no one else wants him. They all watch TN play the dink and dunk and puke.

Posted by sgtvols on December 2, 2007 at 1:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

ps: i think the last time we wore those "orange britchies" quote spurrier, we lost. please burn those awful things.

Posted by volsfan327 on December 2, 2007 at 1:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

As Vol Fans you know we are not going to get the respect from the national media or the pollsters, dang a couple weeks a go the announcers were calling our colors "YELLOW"!! I was so pissed, NOT YELLOW...ORANGE anyway, that is why we have to be better than average, play harder, fight to the end of the game clock. This disrespect is nothing new, it is up to us to prove them wrong. We have the talent, enough with excuse after excuse, we need to deliver.

Posted by newtonrail on December 2, 2007 at 1:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Thanks you Erik and all of the seniors. I'm thankful we have an OC that can be more innovative than most teams in the SEC. I know EB's of this forum have hated both of you, and wouldn't change their mind if we put up 600 yards a game. Those people want the WAC way of playing which won't cut in the SEC. Myer will get Tebow killed, so he better have a good backup. All REAL Tennessee fans, players, and coaches are hurting today because we lost a game we should have won. In game maxims, the breaks went their way and they capitalized on them. We still have a fine group of young men who laid it all on the line.

Posted by THE_VOL on December 2, 2007 at 2:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

TO ERIK AINGE: Thanks for a GREAT 4 years! To quote Theodore Roosevelt:

"It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat."

I don't expect most of you cold and timid souls here to understand.

Posted by Volfan1 on December 2, 2007 at 2:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

THE_VOL, thanks for your eloquent quote that sums it up well.
Thanks, Erik for leading us to Atlanta, and for many good wins over 4 years. You helped us get to Atlanta twice in four years. Not shabby.

Posted by volinexile on December 2, 2007 at 3 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I'll readily admit that I haven't seen Crompton play a whole lot--maybe 40-50 throws total--but I do know that I have seen Ainge fail to hit a receiver in stride in two years. Every big play by UT in the past two years has been the result of either a trick play--think Taylor to Foster-- or a WR breaking it big b/c of a broken/missed tackle. You can critique me for being a critic in the stands for not standing behind Ainge, but please argue this on the merits rather than by quoting TR (and by the way, we all know that it's not the man in the arena who counts, but the one who signs his checks). If someone can just point to a even-matched game in which Ainge literally took over (even Clausen took over the '01 Citrus Bowl) and won, I think that this debate would be over. But I would argue that Ainge has not won us any games...nor has he lost them. He's a good qb, but not a great one. He'll go down in the record books because he played nearly three full years, but not because he was really all that good.

Posted by pdhuff on December 2, 2007 at 3 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Ainge's picks were no worse than Byrd running free all game. Despite great licks hit, enuf were missed for LSU to have 464 yds. Other than Berry -Mayo, not really a bunch of SEC caliber players on D. Chavis is not playing with a full deck. Who recruited these players? I know injuries, other teams have them as well. LSU looked like a ER. But they played on. Scout and Rivals say we're heading for more of the same. Offense has not been our problem this year. Slipping recruiting is rearing its ugly head. results are on the scoreboard. Great effort, Vols, you gave it your all. Nine years of "working harder to get better". Whew. No rings, no trophys that say SEC champs. Hard to spin that. Merry Christmas to all!

Posted by xxorangecrush100xx on December 2, 2007 at 3:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

rwagner... i agree, but most UT fans who come online to coach the team DO only have 1st grade IQ's

Posted by sjt18 on December 2, 2007 at 3:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

"Cutcliffe said
1. " I put us in harms way"
2."I don't think I put them in the right situation to be successful"
3."I didn't punch the right buttons"
????..Why are we paying him again?"

To be a responsible, professional adult... unlike most of those who sit in judgment over him with the full benefit of hindsight. Same with Ainge.

The game was well coached and well played except for a few mistakes that unfortunately cost the Vols the game. The defense showed up and gave us a glimpse into the future with so many returnees make huge plays.

UT outcoached LSU. Out hustled them. Out hit them. Was more disciplined... LSU is the most talented team in the country and they needed a defensive score to win.

The Vols have nothing to be ashamed of- they played with the heart of a champion... many of the "fans" here don't share that heart and probably don't even know what it means.

Posted by james on December 2, 2007 at 3:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I think the defensive coach (Chavis) deserves a raise for how he brought along these guys. The offensive line may do well in pass protection but pounding the rock/running game is no where to be found. Ainge, to his credit, has had to cover the run with his pass-dink plays. I am not sure CUT could do anything different. If the line doesn't make the run work, the CUT is limited to Ainge, who is very limited by his lack of mobility and lack of physical toughness. I have not seen anything in Crompton that makes me think he is any better. Maybe the freshman kids can liven things up next year. Good luck in the bowl.

Posted by sbcheek on December 2, 2007 at 3:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

It is commendable that Ainge wanted to accept responsibility for the loss. It is miraculous that his team mates wouldn't let him. Does this mean there is no more TEAM ME at UT. EXCELLENT!

Now go kick some whatever needs kicking at the bowl game! I am going to boldly predict that Ainge is going to have one of those defining performances. (Hope I'm right)

Posted by volnmdtn on December 2, 2007 at 4:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

In the last four years The University of Tennessee has paid the head coach 8.4 million dollars to coach the Vols. Also, the assistant head coach has been paid more the 500,000 dollars. I don't think a majority of the blame for the Vols short-comings can be blamed just on EA. The Universoity of Tennessee paid good money to coaches to "DEVELOP" Eric into a top notch quarterback that could help us win a SEC, National Championship or at least a BSC Bowl victory. Here is the question for all VOL fans. DID WE GET OUR MONEY'S WORTH OF COACHING TO HELP ERIC WIN? I personally believe we need a refund!!!
GO VOLS!!!!

Posted by LazhilUT on December 2, 2007 at 4:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)

When one player himself loses the game because of his actions alone, yes the fingers should be pointed. We were winning the game when he threw the 1st pick and were about to tie it when he threw the 2nd...yes the fingers should be pointed at him.
He did not produce, his numbers don't show how bad he played.

Posted by givim6 on December 2, 2007 at 4:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Take away 2 passes and we win!!!

However, Ainge should not get all the blame.

Receivers dropped,

Linemen didn't run block,

and Cutcliffe flopped.

Why did he go into "prevent offense" after 1st series? Anytime he gets a lead, no matter how small, he goes into the "prevent offense".

LSU's intercepting DB said " when they go into that formation, we know what they are going to do."

Cutcliffe's playcalling makes us too predictable!!!!

Posted by sgtvols on December 2, 2007 at 5:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)

it all boils down to some think effort is enough: some prefer results.

Posted by volfanjustin on December 2, 2007 at 5:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Ainge played like crap, like usual. What else is new. If I were the head coach he would not even make the trip for the bowl game. He and Hef can watch it from home. Our coaches are bad enough but usually our players over come these morons. Ainge has never been great and will not see the NFL. I am gald we only have to see him 1 more time.

Posted by movol77 on December 2, 2007 at 5:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)

TommyJack, read the article. They players ARE SUPPORTING THE COACHES. I simply said, that if you want to attack the coaches (again), you are not with the players so don't post attacks on the coaches as a defense for the players. The players don't stand with you on that. If that is moronic then you are hopeless to reason with.

Posted by movol77 on December 2, 2007 at 5:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

"Not just Ainge, but how about Arian Foster. Those guys have more class than everyone posting here lumped together."

AMEN!

Posted by rockytopron on December 2, 2007 at 5:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Kudos to the Vols and their amazing attitude. Kudos to Erik Ainge and his leadership - he will be missed next season - mark my words.
Kudos to the coaches for their efforts over the last 6 games, and not allowing Ainge to take the full blame.
Kudos to the Vol teammates for stepping up and supporting Ainge.
Kudos to the Vol fans who support their team thick or thin.

Shame on you fair weather fans who can't do anything else but blame and critize. You should be ashamed.

Posted by movol77 on December 2, 2007 at 5:47 p.m. (Suggest removal)

givim6 said, LSU's intercepting DB said " when they go into that formation, we know what they are going to do."

Really? Rogers was wide open over the middle. Ainge just happened to make the wrong read on that one. If he saw the other read first then it was a 15yard (or more) play. So, maybe they have seen the play but they didn't have it snuffed-out altogether. They just benefited from an errant throw.

Ainge has been a successful QB over the last two seasons. It was disappointing to see him have that 4th quarter. He's been a class Vol. He will probably have a great bowl game.

Go Vols! Let's go bowling. I hope it's against MI in the Outback Bowl!!!

Posted by volfanjustin on December 2, 2007 at 5:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I say shame on all of you fans who accept these losses. 4 losses combined by a combined 77 points, we have to much tradition and pride for you all to accept this. We should have won yesterday but because our moron QB and coaches we did not. The only reason we were there in the first place is because Florida chocked it away. I will not apologize for being unhappy about our perfromance yesterday.

Posted by nbt on December 2, 2007 at 6:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Thank you Ainge for graduating and leaving UT.
Fulmer...go get Randall Cobb from Alcoa so we can have the first real QB since Tee Martin left UT.

Posted by Southland on December 2, 2007 at 6:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Coach Fulmer is no where near the best or worst coach. We outplayed the most talented team in the country, Les Miles can do less with more talent than most coaches. I think Michigan figured that one out. No, he;s not going to Michigan they were not going to hire him. Now having said that Coach Cutcliffe needs to retire soon. We send the assitants to other schools to study different schemes. Cutcliffe apparently never learns anything new. I was against him returning and still think it was a bad idea. I sure hope he proves me wrong next year.\
Ainge will be a good pro backup but this game dropped him from a second rounder to a free agent.

Posted by NCCOLTSFAN on December 2, 2007 at 6:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)

rockytopron:May I have some of that moonshine you are drinking????
Please!
TY!

Posted by UTByrd on December 2, 2007 at 6:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)

It's the 4th, you have a 1 point lead and a 1st down inside your 10 yard line. Conventional wisdom dictates that you DONT throw the ball. Run it 3 times, punt if you have to, and then let your defense take care of business. I don't recall EA checking off on the plays that were called leading up to the first interception. The int. definetly was not the only play to change the outcome of this game-it was, however, the most visible and easiest target for several folks to show their ignorance. I'm sure that MISTER Ainge is a fine upstanding young man and does not deserve the degradation that is being hurled his way because of a football GAME. If you thing being a "fan" gives you the right to disparage a person's character over a "team" loss, you might want to consider taking up watching tennis where success or failure clearly falls on 1 person's shoulders.

Posted by UTByrd on December 2, 2007 at 6:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)

It's the 4th, you have a 1 point lead and a 1st down inside your 10 yard line. Conventional wisdom dictates that you DONT throw the ball. Run it 3 times, punt if you have to, and then let your defense take care of business. I don't recall EA checking off on the plays that were called leading up to the first interception. The int. definetly was not the only play to change the outcome of this game-it was, however, the most visible and easiest target for several folks to show their ignorance. I'm sure that MISTER Ainge is a fine upstanding young man and does not deserve the degradation that is being hurled his way because of a football GAME. If you thing being a "fan" gives you the right to disparage a person's character over a "team" loss, you might want to consider taking up watching tennis where success or failure clearly falls on 1 person's shoulders.

Posted by hueypilot on December 2, 2007 at 7:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I haven't seen as much irresponsible drivel since the last time I read this site after a UT loss. I was there last night, at a place where we have now lost five in a row, yet in still the most electric atmosphere in college football. Both teams slugged it out, played hard (some of the hardest licks I've seen all year, and yes I was at Cal, Florida, Georgia, Alabama and this year) and the better team won.

The defense played with incredible heart. We had as many as four first year players in the secondary at one time, going against an NFL first rounder like Early Doucet. And held them to a TD and two field goals. They were on the field for almost 13 minutes longer than LSU's defense.

BTW LSU's defense may have the best front in college football led by the best linemen in college football. They stopped our run but never sacked our quarterback. How many games has it been since LSU didn't get to the QB?

We had no penalties and no fumbles.

A freshman kicker missed a couple of kicks that turned out to be not enough anyway, but you've already forgotten he had the winning kicks against South Carolina, VAnderbilt and Tennessee.

And Erik Ainge who led us to many wins in a four year career on the hill, made two plays that gave LSU the win. I'm assured none of the no-playing ,no-coaching posters on this site could carry Erik's jock strap. I feel as badly for him as I did for Andy Kelly when his brilliant career ended in a disastrous loss to Penn State where he got picked (I think) three times. For those of you who are so willing to condemn this young man who has devoted much of the last four years to entertaining YOU, I say go get on some bandwagon like the NE Patriots. To those of you ripping anyone on this team that played with great composure, great heart and courage, you're not UT fans. You're garbage. You make me sick. Where are you tngeoff, Collier Vol, even Touchdown TN. Where are the real vol fans, not the a##$%@#s who flipped on the TV. Where are the real fans that made the trip and saw a great game that went against us in the last six minutes. I'll bet you won't hear any coach or player on the LSU team spewing that venom you're posting here.

Posted by TommyJack on December 2, 2007 at 7:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)

hueypilot: Let's see if I have this straight...if you didn't see the game in person, you're not a true fan? Is that your belief?

Posted by budrhon on December 2, 2007 at 7:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)

One has to feel for Ainge at this point. None of us would want to wear his shoes today. Keep your head up young man. With that being said it's history at this point and nothing can be done to change it. We lost, it's over, move on. Let's get behind this team and go kick some Badger butt and gain some respectability in a Bowl for a change. A big win in a Bowl can do wonders for these kids, the Fans and for recruiting. Go Vols!!

Posted by hueypilot on December 2, 2007 at 7:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Yep that's what I'm saying Tommy Jack. I'm saying I'm a real fan. I GO to the games. When we win and when we lose. I'm saying that the cruel hurtful things said by most people on this site about these coaches and players is pathetic, when MOST of their investment in time, effort and money in this endeavor is when they change the batteries in their remote, and that gives them a right to ordain a player or coach as horrible, worthless, worst ever? I'm saying there is a distinct lack of intelligence and manners on this site, Tommy Jack. Would you dispute that? I'm major pissed at the casual fan thinking he knows anything at all about football in general and UT football in particular. I'm saying the internet lets you say things anonymously that if you said to someone's face you'd get the s#$t slapped out of you. But that's about all I'm saying TommyJack. Is that ok with you? Like I give a quack, TommyJack. Just curious. Did you go to the game.

Posted by TommyJack on December 2, 2007 at 7:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Huey: No, I didn't go. But I have gone to many over about 40 years. In that time I never once thought that being an "in person" participant made me special. I've paid my dues for years to the Alum. Association. You sir, have unusual criteria for selecting true fans. Maybe you had one too many hard landings.

Posted by volgirl79 on December 2, 2007 at 7:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)

You know what people make fun of Tennessee fans for? Not for supporting (or appearing to support) Phil Fulmer, or not for supporting our quarterback who clearly grew up his four years on the field. They make fun of us for being bandwagon riders and hating on our own team. It sickens me the number of times I've heard Vol fans boo their own team and their own coaches. What is wrong with you all?

You can't always have a national championship season! You shouldn't expect it. I think we were DAMN lucky to have the season we ended up having. College football programs are more than just winning and getting to big fancy bowl games. It is about young men growing up and learning a craft at which they excel - this is certainly an idea that we don't see so often anymore. These men need to be able to live their lives following their years at UT - and we all know most of them won't be in the league.

SUPPORT YOUR TEAM. Those of you propped up in front of your computer smack talking certainly couldn't do a better job than Ainge, Lincoln, Cutcliffe, or Fulmer - or maybe we'd be funding your scholarship or paying you instead.

If you hate what you see when the boys in orange take the field, do the rest of us a favor - don't watch.

Posted by hueypilot on December 2, 2007 at 8:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Never had a hard landing TJ. 3300 hours with a few engine failures but never bent one. But if I had bent one that wouldn't mean that I was a "horrible" pilot or the "worst" pilot ever. AS for fandom, do I feel superior or special for attending that game in person? I guess I do feel like that being a season ticket holder, having attended hundreds of games over the years as a student and alum (first game on tv 1956, first in person in 1965) having attended over two dozen bowl games, every SEC championship game we have been in, in person viewing of the Sugar Vols, the Miracle at South Bend, the hobnail boot game, the Gaffney catch, yeah, I guess that because I have an investment by sending three children there to obtain five degrees, makes me a more credible fan than somebody who never goes to a game in person, never gives a dime to the University. I know that's not a very politically correct view. But you don't care what I think, and I know I don't care what most of the "fans" on here think. Tell me Tommy Jack, is someone that is an armchair fan who never attends a game in person as much of a fan as one who attends the games in person? Going to the game in person requires a little more of a commitment than adjusting the barcalounger, wouldn't you agree?

Posted by Pocket_Passer on December 2, 2007 at 8:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Missed field goals made a difference in the game as well. If those kicks were made, Ainge is probably not in position to have to make those throws. Team game, and the team played their butts off. I'm still proud to be a Tennessee Vol.

Posted by orngejuiced on December 2, 2007 at 8:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)

huey pilot, it seems that everytime i read one of your posts, you're giving your "ut credentials." wtf do you want? congrats as usual. good job-your a real/true fan. btw i'll take the pepsi challenge on ut football knowledge with your arrogant a$$ any day of the week cowboy. you're a class guy i can tell-talk about saying things anonymously online-i WISH people like you would speak this bs in public-it would be my pleasure beatch slap you old timer. i've called you out before for your arrogance and i'll continue to do so as long as you continue to make a fool of yourself. as a fellow season ticket holder and longtime program supporter-you disgust me.

Posted by LostinNCVol on December 2, 2007 at 8:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

On first down you throw that ball away and live for another down.

Posted by TommyJack on December 2, 2007 at 8:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hueypilot: Wow..the uberfan...sounds like just plain old arrogance to me.

Posted by hueypilot on December 2, 2007 at 8:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I don't want anything from you orange juiced. This is the first time I've ever seen you post on this site. Who the heck are you? Never heard of you but obviously I've made an impression on you. I'm glad you're a season ticket holder. Presumably that means you go to the games. ARe you also one of those people who says Fulmer is an idiot, and Ainge is horrible? I would love to see those posts where you called me out for my "arrogance" Please forgive me. Clearly you're not arrogant, threatening to beatch slap me. If I disgust you, quit reading my posts. That's what I'll do to you, now that I've heard of you.

Posted by LostinNCVol on December 2, 2007 at 8:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

hueypilot your an idiot!

Posted by orngejuiced on December 2, 2007 at 8:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)

huey pilot-you've commented more than once that you wished this site was still a pay site. your statement that b/c you've obvously been blessed, according to your posts, you've got a large family and have been financially in good shape, which has allowed you to travel to the bowl games n such. i personally know great vol fans who wouldn't appreciate you assuming you're superiority to them due to your good fortune. i think you should be ashamed. i am ashamed for you sir. my thoughts views on ainge/fulmer basically are not black n white. erik's had a solid overall career but he will be remembered for not winning a championship. there isn't a better man leading young men in college football when it comes to cpf imo-but i've been concerned for awhile whether or not he can get the results (championships) that we/he wants-at some point someone must be accountable for the lack of production. i agree that getting to atlanta was an accomplishment and it sickens me when people on here make fun of his weight-he deserves better than that. btw-i loved the orange pants.

Posted by hueypilot on December 2, 2007 at 8:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)

So no answer to my question Tommy? Just your observation about arrogance?
Well lost in nc I'm arrogant enough to know that when you say "your an idiot" you use the contraction of you are, as in "you're an idiot." If you're going to call somebody and idiot you should try to get the grammar right.
And you're right pocket passer. Being down one might have changed Ainge's play calling, but it wasn't desperation time on the last int. It was first down I think. He just didn't see the linebacker who was spying him, and he never looked away from the intended receiver. The lb just read Ainge's eyes. He made a mistake. I know he'd like to have it back. But he's won a lot of games for us in his career.

Posted by CharlotteVol on December 2, 2007 at 9:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Where was Jones in the 4th? We only saw him on 2 drives, which were our TD drives. I guess we assumed after that LSU would know how to stop it so we sat him.

Next year, Cutcliffe will only play Crompton at QB, and he will only play him in the pocket, just like he coached both Mannings and Ainge. Not because that is what is best for UT, but because that is all he knows how to do. We have a HUGE opportunity to take advantage of 2 very mobile QBs next year, but instead the one who starts will be the one who best learns how to play in the "Cutcliffe Pocket QB" system.

Posted by orngejuiced on December 2, 2007 at 9:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

gerald jones is exciting huh?

Posted by NCCOLTSFAN on December 2, 2007 at 9:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Crompton is not a pocket QB!!!!
Sure hope you are wrong CharlotteVol

Posted by orngejuiced on December 2, 2007 at 9:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)

thanks for proving my point huey

Posted by hueypilot on December 2, 2007 at 9:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Just so I'll understand oj, if I may call you oj, you're ashamed of me because I think that since this site became free I have commented that there seems to be much less civility on this site and that anybody can come on here and say any vile thing about people that have devoted, in some instances, most of their lives to entertain us as fans? I have some means now, but long before that went to games when I was much less well off, had to drive in and drive back right after the game. What the hell am I apologizing to you for? You and I agree on the issues regarding pf and ea, you just don't like the fact that I told Tommy Jack, with whom I was having a discussion of armchair fans vs. people who go to the games, that I've been a long time and ardent supporter. And then you talked about slapping me like I was your bitch. That's the way I remember it but I could be wrong. Again, if you're ashamed of me and I disgust you, don't read what I post. After all, I'm an "old timer".

Posted by CharlotteVol on December 2, 2007 at 9:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Nccoltsfan - I hope I'm wrong too. It just fits the pattern. Cutcliffe only knows one way to play QB. It's what limits him most as a coach in my book.

With Crompton and Jones we will have the potential to get alot more out of the QB position next year than standing in the pocket and throwing 5 yard outs and slants. The question is whether or not we take advantage of the abilities they have. I doubt it as long as Cut is directing the O.

Posted by hueypilot on December 2, 2007 at 9:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)

There's a lot of chatter about BJ Coleman being a better player that Crompton. But Vol coaches have been big on everyone waiting their turn.

Posted by NCCOLTSFAN on December 2, 2007 at 9:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

CharlotteVol:I will be reading the local paper to see how Crompton is taking all this.
Wouldn't be surprized if he transfers if Cutcliffe won't let him be himself.
The kid is tough and unafraid.
Will always believe if given a chance, Crompton might have really helped us in some of the "blow out" games.
Couldn't have hurt us anymore than Ainge did.
Oh,I will catch it for that remark!
GO LADY VOLS!!!!!!!
I love it when we beat the Tarheels!! lol

Posted by C123456 on December 2, 2007 at 9:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

My hat's off to the entire team, including Ainge, for an exciting season and some great wins. Tennessee was lucky to have him wear Orange.

Posted by Southland on December 2, 2007 at 9:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)

to all foul mouthed people using textmessaging lingo to use filthy language just doesn't cut it People who feel a need to curse usually don't have an argument or don't have enough sense to express themselves without cursing \

Where are all of you doom dayers (and I have been one this year, but now am proud of the team) getting your info about us being killed in recruiting. Isn't it possible we have enough young talent that we are not pressed this year to have a huge recruiting year. Besides, thankfully some of the supposed to stars of the past are leaving us this year. Good bye Mapu- you were missed when you were doing your mission trip-and you were missing in action when you came back

Posted by Canpflier on December 2, 2007 at 10:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)

"HEY VOLSFAN327! Yo TommyJack! You couldn't throw a football in a major college program if your life depended on it, with or without the talent surrounding Ainge. You couldn't have a 65% completion rate picking your nose! What in your life experience leads you to fantasize that you are in any way qualified to criticize any of the coaches or players on this team? Ainge has already, at the age of 21-22, accomplished more at a higher level than you will in your entire life."

Still waiting for you blowhard hacks, getting your kicks by rapping on a kid and his coaches, to show off your football bona fides, let us know all about your vast training and experience in playing and coaching football. C'mon guys, here's an invite. BRag it up. Be the man!

OR maybe...just maybe you have NO college football experience, either coaching or playing. Maybe you kinow darn good and well you would choke beyond resuscitation if you had to actually call a 3rd and 12 from your own 18 in the SEC championship. Maybe you wouldn't have a clue how to rebuild a 20-year old's confidence to lead a major univerity's football program?

Guys, you don't know what your talking about. And to the extent you harrange and harrass these kids on an anonymous Board...well, you're also a punk.

Posted by utmdm on December 2, 2007 at 10:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

At