UT's Brown says LSU players still reeling : govolsxtra.com

Chris Brown knows LSU.

Being from New Orleans, the Tennessee tight end has ties to several Tiger defenders. Those relationships give him some insight into the mind-set of UT's upcoming opponent in the SEC championship game in Atlanta on Saturday.

"They're doing their talking like Louisiana people do," Brown said with a smile.

Brown spent a good portion of Sunday afternoon visiting with friends from Louisiana who are still reeling from last week's loss to Arkansas and being eliminated from national championship contention.

One of the LSU players Brown spoke to was Tiger cornerback Jai Eugene.

"He was upset, which I'm sure anyone would be," Brown said. "He said they're getting back focused."

That remains to be seen. Will LSU's players be broken hearted with a smaller crown to play for or will they be able to channel their emotions into an SEC championship?

Linebacker Jerod Mayo wants nothing but the Tigers' best effort.

"I hope those guys come out and play the best they can," the junior said. "I think if we go out there and play the best we can, we'll come out with a victory."

A victory at this point of the season often depends on a team's health. Star LSU defensive tackle Glenn Dorsey is recovered from a knee injury, according to the Baton Rouge Advocate, but a back bruise is expected to limit him this week. Brown said Dorsey's health is a factor.

"If he was 100 percent, then I think our whole scheme of things would have to change," Brown said. "With him not being 100 percent, I think it does change the way their defense plays. They can't be so aggressive."

Still, Dorsey at even 50 percent is better than most other defensive linemen the Vols have played this season, Brown said.

If UT wins Saturday, it would mean a homecoming for Brown, as the Vols would play in the Sugar Bowl in New Orleans on Jan. 1.

"It would be great to go out in my hometown," Brown said. "…But we're taking each game one game at a time."

Playing in the Sugar Bowl also would be a way to quiet all those LSU fans who still chide Brown for choosing UT.

"Louisiana people are crazy," Brown said. "A lot of people don't realize how crazy Louisiana people are."

Honored: Mayo was named the SEC defensive player of the week Monday. Mayo was in on a career-high 19 tackles (11 solo), with 1.5 for a loss, including a shared sack and a pass deflection in UT's win at Kentucky. Mayo's pass deflection resulted in a UT interception.

Mayo got his second consecutive double- figure tackle game and sixth of the season. Mayo moved into a tie for fourth place among SEC tackle leaders this season with 112 stops.

Safety Eric Berry was named the SEC freshman of the week. Berry had a career-best 14 tackles (seven solos) with a pass deflection. He leads all SEC freshmen with 76 total tackles.

In Loux Of: Mayo said the Vols will have to be prepared for LSU backup quarterback Ryan Perrilloux, who is known for his running ability.

"He brings a whole different dimension to the game," Mayo said.

That means an increased emphasis on gap control and discipline when Perrilloux is in the game.

How much Perrilloux plays is unknown. The sophomore has played in relief of senior Matt Flynn, whose health could be in question after playing through a shoulder injury last week against Arkansas.

Second Wind: Don't expect the Vols to be tired this week just because they've played eight consecutive games without a bye and are coming off a four-overtime win.

"We're not tired at all, especially when you're playing for a championship," Mayo said. "This team's ready to go and we'll be ready Saturday."

Mayo did concede he's glad LSU is coming off an overtime game as well, three extra periods against Arkansas last week.

Sneak Peek: With LSU wrapping up its spot in the SEC championship game on Nov. 10, there was plenty of the time for devout UT players to take an early look at the Tigers. Brown said a head start was the last thing from his mind.

"We couldn't look too much at them because we had some tough games to play," he said.

Lined Up: UT is a 7 1/2-point underdog to LSU.

"I like being in the underdog role. I think we play better as a team," Mayo said. "I wish it (the line) was more really."