Posted by tngeoff on October 20, 2007 at 9:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Florida coach Urban Meyer is 3-0 against Fulmer’s Vols. Saban is 3-1, including his 2-1 record at LSU.

We have a new strategy. Now we develop OTHER coaches! Maybe if we're nice to one...he'll come here and save our program! What a unique and clever strategy! Now if one can just arrange a secret meeting with large financial donors, influencial alumni and our AD. A repeat of history...except this one is replacing the coach THEY annointed and is decimating our program and the last one had won two SEC CHampionships in his last three years.

Posted by indianacurly on October 20, 2007 at 9:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)

john adams for president! john pennington for secdef!!!

Posted by tngeoff on October 20, 2007 at 9:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Good grief. At this point I'd take Adams or Pennington for head coach to end the nightmare of the past eight years!

Posted by tngeoff on October 20, 2007 at 9:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

John. Please encourage John Pennington to do the story I asked him to do. It needs to be told. It will be a National story, so let's get it here first. There are plenty of National Sports folks who still love John Majors and haven't forgotten what happened. Don't be surprised to see it this week elsewhere.

Posted by dbs on October 20, 2007 at 9:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Other stats that should loom large since the national title....

Years without SEC title: 8
Years without BCS bowl: 7
Years without top 10 ranking: 5
Years without AP Top 25 ranking: 2000, 2002, 2005, (2006-25th)
Years with 3 or more losses: 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 (6 straight years and 8 out of 9 )
Years with multiple losses to unranked teams: 2003, 2005
Years with loss in last 2 games of season: 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006 (EIGHT straight years and counting)

4-8 (.333) vs. Spurrier: (2-3 since 1998 )
3-4 (.429) vs. Richt
1-3 (.250) vs. Tuberville
1-3 (.250) vs. Saban
0-3 (.000) vs. Meyer

10-17 (.370) 1999 - present vs. FL, GA, LSU, AUB (thank God for Zook!)
8-16 (.333 ) 2000 - present vs. FL, GA, LSU, AUB
6-15 (.286) 2000 - present vs. FL, GA, LSU, AUB excluding games vs. Zook
6-13 (.316) 2000 - present vs. FL, GA, AUB
4-12 (.250) 2000 - present vs. FL, GA, AUB excluding games vs. Zook
6-10 (.375) 2000 - present vs. FL, GA
4-9 (.308) 2000 - present vs. FL, GA excluding games vs. Zook
3-5 (.375) 2000 - present vs. GA

8-16 (.333) vs. Top 10 teams 1999 - present
1-6 (.142) vs. Top 10 teams at home 2000 - present
6-14 (.300) vs. Top 10 teams 2000 - present
18-21 (.462) vs. Ranked Teams 1999 - present
2-5 (.285) Bowl games since 1998 (all double digit losses)
2-7 (.222) Postseason record since 1998 including SECCG (all double digit losses)

Posted by dbs on October 20, 2007 at 9:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Found this on one of the other comment threads here at govolsxtra.com. If true, these should cause an accountant to scratch their heads and ask why?

===

Fulmer's salary as a % of Football revenue is 7.3% and 3rd highest in the SEC.

From the Decatur Daily in 2007

Auburn football generated $51,598,921 in revenue during that span. Head coach Tommy Tuberville makes a reported $2,231,000, which is 4.3 percent.

The University of Florida generated $48,194,552 in football revenue during that time period and pays its coach, Urban Meyer, $1,524,550. That’s 3.3 percent of its football budget.

Les Miles, who replaced Saban as LSU’s head coach, makes $1.45 million, about 3.7 percent of the Bengal Tigers’ football budget.

Tennessee head coach Phillip Fulmer’s salary is at 7.3 percent, but the Vols’ football revenue has dropped from around $46 million to $27,732,427.

Alabama is not the only school with a high percentage level. Oklahoma pays Bob Stoops $3.45 million, which is at 10 percent, and Notre Dame pay Charlie Weis a reported $3.3 million, which is 5.3 percent.

"THERE IS A FINE LINE BETWEEN STABILITY AND COMPLACENCY!" With a graduating QB, there has never been a better time to make a change.

===

Posted by volster on October 20, 2007 at 9:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I have been a strong Fulmer supporter, but there is no denying the disparity in coaching today. I am not joining the low-class, immature name-callers who are fond of calling the coach "Foolmore" and the like, as I believe that Phillip Fulmer is a class act and very loyal to the University of Tennessee. I think he should be treated with respect throughout this season and the painful decision that Mike Hamilton is apparently going to have to make following the season. But, there is no denying that this was the worst coaching performance I have seen since watching teams coached by Hal Mumme and Gerry Dinardo. Sorry Coach.

Posted by olozbal on October 20, 2007 at 9:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

1. Why did they keep taking Foster out? I get rotating but it seemed like he was hardly in when it mattered most? He was hot this game and we kept him from making a difference.
2. Where was Hardesty?
3. Did anyone see that bama kickoff return where our guys had zero aggression. Just dancing around trying to contain the guy while nobody tackled him? Wow. Worst display of football wimps I've ever seen.
4. Our defense is just bad. We didn't adjust, we didn't tackle, we didn't pressure.
5. I love how Saban was pissed and angry when they screwed up. Notice how our side just doesn't care?

Posted by volster on October 20, 2007 at 9:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Olozbal, I agree that Saban had the fire in his belly, and that was obviously lacking on our sideline. This was a sad game for me to watch, as it clearly showed some shortcomings in a coach I respect very much.

Posted by GrandCanyonVol on October 20, 2007 at 10:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Very,very disapointed ----again! The coaching was awful. We are embarrassed, very embarrassed!!!

Posted by yeavols on October 20, 2007 at 10:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)

And Georgia beat Alabama? Granted anyone can beat anyone on any given day, but let's be real about this one. Once again, we saw an unmotivated team and a coach on the sidelines dazed and confused. We had more penalties than in any previous game, continued missed tackles, and questionable play calling.

Posted by hglover40 on October 20, 2007 at 10:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)

dbs, GA,LSU, and FL probably had more talent on the field the last few years than UT, which might explain Fulmer's record against those schools since 2000. Not today, I don't think you can say Alabama has more talent, or at least UT has had much better recruiting classes than Bama the past 4 years.
I've always been a fan of coach Fulmer; but it's tough to watch games like today's!!

Posted by Ironcity on October 20, 2007 at 10:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I wish it was motivation that we lacked because that could be fixed. The coaching on the defense is just awful. There is no reason to what we do. 3rd and 8 we give a 15 yard cushion 3rd and goal from the 16, we let their best receiver run right down the middle of the field for a TD. Its very clear our linebckers haven't a clue. Lets stop!!!! turning linebackers into ends. I am so tired of watching our ends get dragged down the field and our backers getting run over. Ryan Karls not even big enough to play fullback much less linebacker. Does that mean Fulmer should go? Only of he refuses to make the necessary changes that are needed. I am not sure but does Chavous also coach the Dee Linemen? I believe the Coordinator, Secondary Coach and Line coach have to go. We should immediately move Donald and Walker back to linebackers and lets start playing physical football again.

Posted by dbs on October 20, 2007 at 10:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)

hglover40,

You've recognized part of my point.

We can debate who had the best talent between TN, GA, LSU and FL all day - and both probably be right . I really don't think the talent disparity was that big either way, though I do think we've had much better talent than Auburn for several years.

The issue is coaching. Both on the field and in recruiting. If you accept that the other schools had better talent, then why is that given the financial investment the University makes in Fulmer? The HC is completely responsible for recruiting quality players - and given the investment in Fulmer and the facilities UT should expect the best.

If the problem is talent but not we are still recruiting well, then why aren't those players developed as fast as at other schools or performing as effectively? Do we lack player development skills?

Last, it was obvious today that we were out-coached in every way possible - even with a huge talent disparity in our favor (they were even missing 3 starters). Unfortunatly, this isn't the first time this season this has happened.

When talent levels are close, whether or not UT has a slight advantage or not, the record should not be this bad. But it is. The numbers don't lie.

Any way you look at the situation it is obvious that UT is not getting a return commensurate with the level of its investment in the current head coach and staff. Something has to change.

One thing that can change is our expectations. Hglover40, some might interpret your comment as being satisfied with 3+ losses per season (I don't - I just think you are being very, very loyal). If the Vol Nation finds that collectively acceptable, then perhaps we shouldn't be so hard on Fulmer and the AD, Hamilton, as we've acquiesced to a status of a tier 2 SEC team.

That's OK for some. But, not for me.

The other thing that can change is internal to the program. Accountability starts at the top - with Fulmer. It's time for him to step aside.

BTW, if UT is somehow satisfied with being a second tier team then I respectfully submit that Fulmer isn't the right coach for the Vols. We can achieve that level of success at a much lower cost than we have with Fulmer.

Posted by moes1 on October 20, 2007 at 10:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Phil:
Thank you for all the years you have given to the Vols as a student, player and coach. We will alway have a warm place for you in our hearts. We wish you the very best in your new job next year.

Posted by madcow26 on October 20, 2007 at 10:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)

good god almighty..this is painful...worst tennessee team I have seen since the johnny majors era and I was there when duke and north texas state beat us...awful...but , afterall tomorrow is another day...I am sure tennessee can win out...that is if we play georgia the next five games...

Posted by tw85541 on October 20, 2007 at 11:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

It's all about the coach. That's college football. Ours was a great one, but like Penn State and Florida State, time has passed him by and his icon status has kept him here too long. Thanks for the memories, but we have to move on. Could it be more obvious?

Posted by brdteton on October 20, 2007 at 11:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

We are bad and I don't give a s*&^ if we win out every game for the year. This has gotten to be the norm. No good coaches on the horizon, but don't see how we can do overly worse.

This was the worse coaching performance from all sides of the ball I have seen in 20 years.

If 'Buzz Ball' wasn't cutting it, then this certainly isn't either Mike P.

Posted by vegasvol on October 20, 2007 at 11:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Since the game was on espn gameplan, I put on my orange and went to the Suncoast Casino to proudly watch my Vols pound to Tide. Needless to say, by the 4th quarter I was retreating with my tail between my legs as I'm sure Smokey was. It was embarrassing, very embarrassing.

Posted by MANVOL on October 20, 2007 at 11:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)

just got back from Tuskaloosa, this just in Alabama scored again....That was the sorriest performance to date. That's including the Florida game. They did not have any fight 'em. I've been ready for a coaching since Penn State debacle. Ainge had a wide reciever break down the side line 4 different times and never threw it deep. The one he through deep that was picked, Oneil was wide open no one with in 5-7 yards of him at ten yard line right in front of me. Missing someone deep once; it happens. Not throwing deep to a wide open receiver is a huge problem. Turn out the lights the parties over!!

Posted by BigVolinCarolina on October 20, 2007 at 11:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

It pains me to say this but I must: how many times do we "have to go back to the drawing board"/"work harder at practice/"keep trying to get better in each week"?

Posted by DCSOvol on October 20, 2007 at 11:38 p.m.

(This comment was removed by the site staff.)

Posted by volfans_1 on October 20, 2007 at 11:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)

tngeoff

We all agree it was wrong how Majors was replaced but we also know it needed to be done. However, it's time again for that decision to be made not thought about or debated any longer. Fulmer was put in place by the powers that be to take the program to the "next level" and he did for a few years and we won a National Championship and a few SEC Championships during that stretch, and for that I give him credit. Fulmer is a great VOL and should be respected as such.I contend that he should do the right thing as a VOL and announce his retirement effective at years end so we can start the process of finding the next coach so we don't lose any recruits coming in. I love UT and UT Football and respected both Majors and Fulmer but it is time to make a change. We as VOL fans should show respect to the program during this time by supporting the team no matter what. It only makes us look foolish to the recruits,media and the university to bad mouth and poor mouth. I know no one is taking this harder than the players and most of the coaches. I hope Fulmer comes to his senses and does the right thing.

Posted by DCSOvol on October 20, 2007 at 11:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hey Phil, I ve got just the thing after a Tide butt-pasting.

http://www.buttpaste.com/

Posted by DCSOvol on October 20, 2007 at 11:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Everyone knows about the situation at Nebraska, right. They just fired their AD, Steve Pederson, after he just about alienated everyone in the Husker Nation. Guess where he spent some of his formative years and with who. Look at the 1993 media guide. Hamilton and Pederson together in the UT administration under Dickey. Wake up, Mike. Dont follow Steve.

Posted by skinalive on October 20, 2007 at 11:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

We are not even competitive in what is a wide-open SEC East.

Dear Ol' Ball Coach,

Please shoot the dog next week and put it out of its misery.

Regards,

The Dog

Posted by skinalive on October 20, 2007 at 11:47 p.m. (Suggest removal)

100-37?

Shoot more three-pointers!

Posted by Indianavol on October 20, 2007 at 11:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The D that showed up for the UGA game was an abberation; the Vols secondary is awful. I was willing to accept the Cal loss and was furious after the Fl loss and gave Fulmer the benefit of the doubt. After UGA, I liked our chances because the D played great. But there is NO WAY, NO WAY those lying, cheating, scum-of-the-earth BASTARDS in Tuscaloser are 24 points better than the Vols.

If the Vols play this way the rest of the season, we will be lucky to win 5 games!

I'm sorry Coach Fulmer, you have taken this program to new heights, but it is time to walk away with dignity before you are shown the door!

Posted by hosslarry on October 21, 2007 at 12:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Should Fuller be fired. Probably so, but not for his coaching abilities. You don't establish the record that he has without having some ability. Rather his weakness is his loyalty to his staff, which is basically a group of underperformers. Everyone on the defensive side should be replaced and that should start with Chavis on Monday. Tennessee hasn't had a defense in years and Fullmer hasn't taken any action to remedy it. You've got to feel sorry for the players, because Tennessee has very good talent, good enough to win the conference but the defensive coaches let them down time after time. If it wasn't for Cutcliff, I'm not sure that the record wouldn't be 0-6 now. Chavis should have been shown the door several years ago. And Cutcliff, 3rd and 2 yards to go and you call a pass!!! Some of that defensive intelligence rubbing off on you? Can Hamilton pull another "Pearl rabbit" out of the hat for the football program?
5 and 6 or 6 and 5 became a lot more clearer after today.

VaVol

Posted by txsvol on October 21, 2007 at 12:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)

moes1 expresses my feelings too. We can love Phil for all he's done for UT, as we can Johnny, and still know that it's time for him to retire, be bought out, or fired. We need a new beginning, and Phil and his assistants are 'acluistic.' He's never been the best game day coach. There's nothing he can do the rest of the season to change our minds about two losing seasons in three years being unacceptable. And, with blow-out losses to Florida and Bama, even 9-3 would be a losing season! When both FL and AL claim we quit, and it's obvious that we did, it reflects so badly on the coaches. Looks like LSU-Auburn is having the kind of game we used to have against Alabama and Florida, as did FL-KY earlier today. Does anybody know if any SEC assistants are head coaching material for us to consider?

Posted by jonesboroughvolfan on October 21, 2007 at 12:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)

How fast do you think ESPN is moving trying to get out of next Saturday's telecast? Tennessee vs. South Carolina? With the way these two played today why not just show the Shuffleboard World Championship live from the Ft. Lauderdale Retirement Village.

Posted by skroutyboy on October 21, 2007 at 12:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I have resisted making these comments, but after today I feel compelled to offer this analysis. We are not a well coached team. From the opening onsides kickoff to the final gun, we were outcoached, outplayed, outhit, etc. I agree with some of the previous posters--Coach Fulmer has done a tremendous job at Tennessee and should be treated with respect. That being said, he should be offered the opportunity to resign with the proper trappings. However, if he chooses not to take that route, AD Hamilton has to make the tough call and let him go. It is obvious that our schemes and philosophies do not work in the college game today. Certainly, talent is an important component, but I do not see the development of talent that is needed to compete in the strongest conference in America. With the resources we have, there is no reason to experience what we have experienced the last 4-5 years. We are Tennessee. Nothing else needs to be said. We expect the best and, in turn, should be rewarded with the best. Granted, you cannot win the conference or the national title every years. However, we should at the very least compete for those titles. Yet, we are not in the position to do so. Hence, it is time for a change. Please Coach Fulmer do the honorable thing and resign at the end of the season. Thank you for what you have done for Tennessee football.

Posted by Chainsaw on October 21, 2007 at 12:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I thought I was watching "Deliverance" instead of a football game. I can still hear that horrible squealing...PLEASE MAKE IT STOP!

Posted by budrhon on October 21, 2007 at 12:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Look's like Gator Fan is back in the drivers seat!

Posted by injunvol on October 21, 2007 at 1:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)

come on adams - your not very smart if think the vols have a defense - im not sure what it is myself but i dang well know its not a defense so please dont call it one

Posted by txsvol on October 21, 2007 at 1:37 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Re: my previous posts, I see no way that we can beat anyone remaining on our schedule, except ULaLa, and maybe Vandy. Even Blake Mitchell's homecoming next weekend should be a success for him and the Ol' Ball Coach! Finishing 6-6 would make us bowl eligible. And, there will be pressure to go, recruiting advantages and such! Maybe there's a friend of Hamilton's who recently was terminated as AD at Nebraska, who might give him good advice about what he should do to keep his job. He made a great hire in basketball! Now, let's see what he can do in football. Anybody else ready for one of those $25,000 former NCAA consultants who can approach people during the football season without violating any NCAA rules? I understand that Dennis Franchione and Bill Callahan will be available at the end of the season, if not sooner (sarcasm intended). A good young assistant coach is Brent Venables at Oklahoma, who has been tutored by Bob Stoops, and coaches an agressive defensive scheme. It might be advantageous to have Venables on board, but I'm open to others, especially Jason Garrett, OC-QB Coach of the Dallas Cowboys. Just so they are young and smart, and will be able to attract other coaches just like them, who can recruit. That was Phil's saving factor for so long, but we've looked better in recruiting than in developing the new talent and actually getting it to the field. Phil has to go, after this season!

Posted by TDTNVOLS on October 21, 2007 at 1:41 a.m. (Suggest removal)

JUST RUN THE BALL!!! Cutcliffe made Chavis, the defense and Fulmer look incompetent. All you had to do was run the ball. Everyone already knew our defense was weak; so run the ball and keep our defense off the field. Foster was getting 7 or 8 yards per carry. Alabama had 8 in the box and they COULD NOT stop the run. I almost always favor a balanced attack, but clearly today was an exception. ALL WE NEEDED TO DO WAS RUN THE BALL. THEY COULD NOT STOP US. This was how be beat Georgia. But Cutcliffe has Ainge, and he just can't stand not throwing the ball. I love Ainge too, but Cutcliff and Fulmer let Ainge hand the game over to Alabama today, and we could not stop them. WHAT A SHAME. WHO IS IN CHARGE ANYWAY???

Posted by steve22043 on October 21, 2007 at 1:52 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Funny how in recent history Chavis was considered such a good coach people were worried he'd leave us to take a head coaching job somewhere. Trooper's the only coach who seems to have any fire. I think the others have gotten too complacent with their bloated salaries. They have no drive any more and it clearly carries over to the players. Agree Fulmer should be escorted out with respect.

Posted by brianlacyjohnson on October 21, 2007 at 2:57 a.m. (Suggest removal)

TDTNVOLS: I couldn't agree more. 3rd and 2: Run the ball. 4th and 2 and down by 7: Run the ball (we punted from mid-field...they scored). 4th and 1 and down by 10: Run the ball (we punted from mid-field...they scored again).

Posted by bigfan502 on October 21, 2007 at 3:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)

In recent years the big problem has been the defense. In 1999 season, Nebraska in bowl game ran 38 straight running plays against the hapless Vol defense...Who in no way could stop the Huskers...and they even let up...keeping the score 31-21..yet Vols had five or six first round picks in pro draft...Hello.

Posted by ncvol17 on October 21, 2007 at 3:37 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Does anyone really still believe that just since we are playing the next 4 at home we will win them? Pass me that Kool AID please...
Then the Cats get to feast on us like it was 1985...

Start the count down to Sept of next year when we can all believe we will win 'em all and go to the SEC championship again.

Let's start the mantra = Just one more year....

Posted by jamcdaniel79 on October 21, 2007 at 4:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I can't take it anymore. Maybe we should use Neyland as a new stadium for the Lady Vols. At least they win at something.

It's a disgrace. 99% percent chance fulmer DOESN't lose his job.

Posted by cphil on October 21, 2007 at 6:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)

jamcdaniel79, I think you're right about one thing, 99% percent chance Fulmer DOESN'T lose his job.

UNLESS, the true powers that be at UT make the decision to pull the trigger. Mike Hamilton has about as much real say-so in such a move as you or I would have. He gets his marching orders from the big money people like Jim Haslam. He can't wipe his butt without first asking them whether to scrunch or fold the toilet paper. Want to get rid of the current coaching (and I use that term loosely) staff? Then boycott Pilot stations and let the Haslams know it's being done because of their continued support for Fulmer. Do the same to the businesses of the other big buck contributors to UT and see how fast they engineer another "Night of the Orange Knives" like they did when Fulmer replaced Majors.

Posted by tngeoff on October 21, 2007 at 6:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)

cphil,

Amen. And how quickly many have forgotten.

Posted by DSaVol on October 21, 2007 at 7:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Gee...this stuff sounds like an echo. One that I and only a few others on here have been preaching for over two years. THIS ENTIRE STAFF MUST GO! And that includes Trooper Taylor who for some unknown reason seems to be most folks popular exception. It would be extremely unwise to mistake his High School Harry act for true "fire in the belly." He couldn't coach RBs, the WRs are below average, and all those great recruits he's credited with must be ghosts. But I guess if ole Phat Phil gave a chest bump now and then, many would want him to hang around too. THEY ALL MUST GO! NOW!

Posted by k0605 on October 21, 2007 at 7:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)

In the three losses, the Vols have been outscored 145-68. They have not been competitive and that's the worst fact so far this year.Not even competitive. Now the Vols have been competitive against Arkansas State and So. Miss...wow! This is a far cry from what Tenn has done in the past and another year of sliding from Tenn expectations.
Tenn needs new coaching leadership. Even Joe Torre had to leave. Nebraska is going to upgrade, Alabama and Florida upgraded. Tenn has to upgrade big time. Get someone that raises the bar on the entire SEC.

Posted by spencer1989 on October 21, 2007 at 8:34 a.m. (Suggest removal)

At the start of the season, I had predicted 6 losses this season. So far I have been right on each one of those except for the Georgia game. The other losses that I have predicted are to Arkansas, South Carolina, and Kentucky. Anyone want to bet against those??? After yesterday, I may go ahead and throw Vanderbilt in the mix. Maybe this will be the year that the phat pumpkin gets harvested into pumpkin pie

Posted by VOLnATL on October 21, 2007 at 8:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I feel the same as all of you and could easily write a book on how the team played, coacjing, etc. . We missed a prime opportnity to replace Phil over the past two-three years. If Hamilton had any vision and true football leadsership abilities, we would now have a coach such as Myers, Miles, etc. The honeymoon phase would be over and UT would have national respect. Instead, Hamilton "stayed the course".I hate that freaking phrase and I am sure Phil will use it once again. Let's all pray that this is not the case again. The administration needs to read "Who Moved My Cheese". Change is innevitable and it seems the admin is scared to face it! IT can not get any worse!

Posted by VOLnATL on October 21, 2007 at 8:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I feel the same as all of you and could easily write a book on how the team played, coacjing, etc. . We missed a prime opportnity to replace Phil over the past two-three years. If Hamilton had any vision and true football leadsership abilities, we would now have a coach such as Myers, Miles, etc. The honeymoon phase would be over and UT would have national respect. Instead, Hamilton "stayed the course".I hate that freaking phrase and I am sure Phil will use it once again. Let's all pray that this is not the case again. The administration needs to read "Who Moved My Cheese". Change is innevitable and it seems the admin is scared to face it! IT can not get any worse!

Posted by blhvols on October 21, 2007 at 8:49 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Lets just put four posts in the defensive backfield and hope the other teams receivers run into them. First thing is to get rid of the DB coach. He hasn't been any good since he has been at UT. Chavis threntens to leave if Fulmer fires him. If that is the case, then good bye to chavis also. I've also not heard of many commmitments that Chavis has gotten. I know the front 4 has to put pressure on to help the DB's, and thats not happening either. Again UT gets behind early, and loses big. Fulmer should have gone for it on 4th and 2. Still conservative and afraid to lose. We knew defense couldn't hold them.

Posted by blhvols on October 21, 2007 at 8:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)

We do not want Miles ATLVOLS1, even the LSU people don't like him that much. They have been very lucky this. They are good because they have great talent. Miles is a gambler, I'll give him that.

Posted by VolFan4Life on October 21, 2007 at 8:57 a.m. (Suggest removal)

To ATLVOLS1 "It can not get any worse" assessment, don't bet on it.

How about a home loss to Vandy? How about a second losing season in three years? How about a recruiting class below that of Rutgers and South Florida?

That's where things are headed.

Posted by tennisvol on October 21, 2007 at 9:01 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I thought some of the players were going to watch Coach Fulmer's back, I guess they forgot about the Alabama game.

Posted by VOLnATL on October 21, 2007 at 9:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)

BLHVOLS-Sorry, I do not want Miles either. I was only stating him as an example when other traditional winning schools had the forsight to make changes, i.e. FL, LSU, etc. Yes, LSU was forced into hiring someone due to Saban leaving but they took a chance.

VOLFAN4LIFE- I agree, I am assuming that we will loose to USC, UK, UA and possible Vandy.

Should have been more clear but I hadn't had time to wipe the sleep out of my eyes. I stayed up watching LSU and Auburn both playing to win not like UT, playing not to loose. Oh hell, UT played to loose! Embarrassed they did no show up to their biggest rival!
I am glad I live in the ATL and not Birmingham or Ttown. I can at least save face here. Ha Ha.

Posted by chelseavol on October 21, 2007 at 9:34 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Dumb: Inability to react to unexpected onside kick.

Dumber: Senseless penalities in critical situations.

Dumbest: Punting on 4th and 1 in second quarter when defense could not provide a stop and when AL would get the ball to begin 2nd half. This was repeated on 4th and 2 in third quarter. The punts gained only 20-25 yards of field position and, of course, AL could cover this in a flash.

Posted by fencevol on October 21, 2007 at 9:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Having lettered in baseball at UT in the late 60's, I got to know Phil Fulmer personally. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to chat with him on a few occasions. I ABSOLUTELY KNOW that he is a BLEED ORANGE MAN. It deeply sadens me to say that I believe it is time for him to step down. The stats posted by dbs, simply do not lie. I have seen this downward trend happening for the last few years, but always felt that Coach could turn it around. Watching games the last couple of years has shown me one thing in particular, THE FIRE IS GONE!!!!!! Watch the other coaches during the games. They are EMOTIONAL, not STOIC. 9 and 3 seasons or worse might be acceptable at many schools, but having worn the Orange and White myself, it is not OK with me !!!!!! I don't know the best way to make this change, I just hope it is done sooner that later. Plil, I know you are a proud honest man, but please let your love for Tennessee guide you in this trying time. Coach, thanks for the Championships and GREAT memories. It is just time.
fencevol

Posted by gillblog on October 21, 2007 at 10:19 a.m. (Suggest removal)

The inepept strategies, the poor talent development, the continual drop-off in performance; all these things are bad in themselves, but I think what makes it so much worse for fans and the real reason so many on this site are angrily outraged is that the Vols are apparently giving up in these games. Just giving up.
If we loose while giving 100% the entire game then fans react with disappointment but respectful support and encouragement. A prime example of this was the UK fans response to their team's loss yesterday. Support and encouragement in the face of a powerful loss. UT fans would have reacted the same way yesterday if only the Vols hadn't obviously given up.

Posted by jcvet on October 21, 2007 at 10:37 a.m. (Suggest removal)

In all my yrs. I don't think I've seen a worse TN team that also played the worse game I've ever seen. How much worse can it get?

Posted by WCT59 on October 21, 2007 at 10:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I have an idea. Why don't U.T. fire Hamilton,and bring back John Majors as A.D. Coach Majors then could maeke the decision on Fulmer's job. It would be poetic justice. Fulmer would be getting the payback he deserves for sticking it to Majors. Surely everyone knows that Hamilton doesn't have the clout to get rid of Fulmer.

Posted by mark_debity2000 on October 21, 2007 at 11:01 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I am really upset on how the Vols are playing this year. Over the past decade since winning the National title, it has been one disappointment after another. What ever happen to the Big Orange when it used to so tough to win against them. Now it is deminished into orange juice where just about anyone can crush them at anytime. Give for example yesterday against alabama. Got blown out by a team that has been struggling all year. Then we go there and get embarressed. What is it? It is recruiting? Is it the coaching? And yes I totally agree that there is time for a change. It is time to get back on track and be once again a powerhouse in the SEC. We can't even defend our own home now without getting embarrassed. We haven't even been to any kind of championship game since 2002 and even then we got blown out. Here is an Ideal since we have 7 national titles under pat summit maybe put her as head coach.

Posted by WCT59 on October 21, 2007 at 11:01 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Please excuse my grammatical errors, and my typos. When it comes for my dislike for Fulmer, I sometimes can not concentrate. What is it going to take to get rid of Fulmer and his entire staff?

Posted by doofus on October 21, 2007 at 11:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)

If Phat Phil had been paying attention to Tennessee football instead of being obsessed with Alabama, the vols would have a better team

Posted by mark_debity2000 on October 21, 2007 at 11:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)

One last thing, over the last several years, we have lost our National TV exposure. Due to our lack luster playing. Look at this way LSU has been shown on Primetime at least 4 times so far this year. Tenn 1 or 2 times. Florida 3 times so far. With that kind of exposure that is how you get votes in the poles. Several years ago we were in that same situation and were always in the top 15. Now we can barely make the top 25. We are better than that. So I am asking PLEASEEEEE Phil step down. Thanks for the memories but go so we can get back in the national spotlight.

Posted by nmvol on October 21, 2007 at 11:23 a.m. (Suggest removal)

So sports writers in Tennessee call it as it is. Fulmer must go at the end of this season! I have never seen a team this bad in watching UT for over 30 years. As an alum and contributer I call for Hamilton to either convince Fulmer to retire or fire him after this year. There is no excuse for the way this so called team plays. And as for Chavis he should be replaced today and run out of town.

Posted by tngeoff on October 21, 2007 at 11:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)

WCT59,

Dang. What a GREAT idea!

Posted by jonesboroughvolfan on October 21, 2007 at 12:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Sure the Vols have been down in recent years, I'll agree cause I've seen it myself, but you people and your love fest for Johnny Majors' coaching abilities bumfuzzle me! Were you asleep during the 80's? Had Fulmer not came in when he did we wouldn't even be having this discussion because the program would never have reached the heights that it did. I get as mad as the rest of you at the way UT plays sometimes and I am no Fulmer apologist, I agree it's time for a change but not right now. Let's finish this nightmare of a season and go from there. And please, stop with the infatuation for Majors. Do you think he could really help us out now??

Posted by tngeoff on October 21, 2007 at 12:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)

jonesboroughvolfan,

Oh that's right. Two SEC Championships in his last three years. What are we? Morons?

Posted by tngeoff on October 21, 2007 at 12:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

By the way. Fulmer is Majors inverted. Majors came here to a decimated program and had the most trouble in the beginning. Fulmer took over a strong program and has decimated it. But hey...even though Fulmer undermined him, let's let Phil keep burying us deeper...and deeper...and deeper...and deeper...and deeper to where no coach can turn it around. Stay the course jonesboroughvolfan. You have it together alright. The thing that most of us are looking for is vindication and an apology for someone who deserves it after what the hapless few did to him. By the way...pretty funny how their scheme is turning out isn't it?

Posted by arkyvol on October 21, 2007 at 1:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)

as i mentioned elsewhere, the only major accomplishment this team can hope for is to avoid another eye opening, attention getting humiliation. given the level of play so far and the remaining schedule, i don't see that in the cards. it will happen again, both elsewhere and within the confines of hallowed neyland cathedral. now, i know how general lee must have felt, looking out over gettysburg's fields to see so many of his loyal and talented troops utterly wasted.

Posted by NCCOLTSFAN on October 21, 2007 at 1:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Said it all year and been cussed for it.
Ainge is over rated but it's all about money.
And way to go Fullmure.
Feed next years QB to the lions and destroy his confidence.
Then,next year you can say."well,Jonathan is gonna be a heck of a QB in this league.He wil get better each week."
This program sucks!
Now I have to avoid the stinking tar hell fans.
And where are the ones who called us fair weather fans and demanded we eat crow????????
Yeah, I am from Crompton's home town.
What about it???
Ainge is a baby.
Won't ever start in NFL!
Thanks Doughboy!
See yall next year!

Posted by DenmarkVol_aka_Mbumburu on October 21, 2007 at 1:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I'd put Vanderbilt's Bobby Johnson on my short list (with Jim Leavitt, Chris Petersen, and Mike Leach).

Look what Johnson has done with what he has to work with at Vanderbilt.

Posted by Colliervol on October 21, 2007 at 1:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Volsfan1 at 11:39 pm. Great post regarding this goofy obsession that some folks have on Johnny Majors. (I mean everybody knows he was completely blameless in his ouster, don't we?)

Posted by Colliervol on October 21, 2007 at 1:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Will re-post something I wrote on another article since it's already moved to the back pages:

As long as you guys persist in beating that old dead Majors horse, I'll stay right with you. "Night of the Orange Knives"? It's Sunday and I still don't care. Has no bearing whatsoever on the future of the program. Didn't care how they got rid of Johnny then and I don't care how they get rid of Phil now. In both cases, it was time to go and that's the bottom line. Neither was leaving on their own. If it took a knife then and now, so be it. What, you guys never heard of inter-office politics and climbing the corporate ladder? Naivete reigns supreme. Happens every day and in every office, be it subtle or not-so-subtle.

As I tell my children: Life's tough. Better get a helmet cause it ain't all roses and tea parties.

As far as I'm concerned, if Johnny was arrogant enough to think he was king and didn't protect his back, that's his fault.

Posted by NCCOLTSFAN on October 21, 2007 at 1:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)

From Tidefans.com:
Alabama defeated Tennessee in every facet of the game, but perhaps no more so than sideline vs. sideline. This game was a microcosm of the last few years of Phil Fulmer’s reign in Tennessee; the Volunteers tried to finesse the ball at Alabama despite never really being stopped in the running game, and after a few critical mistakes, folded like the top of a Krispy Kreme doughnut box.

Posted by DennisVols on October 21, 2007 at 1:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

What’s Wrong with UT FOOTBALL?
1) Excuses: too many excuses as to why they did not play up to their abilities. Excuses are what mediocre or poor teams use to pacify their fans. My platoon Sgt. Use to say “The maximum effective range of an excuse is 0 meter”
2) Guts: There have been too many opportunities this season, and in recent years, that the coaching failed to take a chance on 4th and short to keep a drive alive. If you truly have confidence in your team and their abilities this is not as risky as some would take. The great teams believe they can win every down. It all begins with the coaching staff. When they show a lack of confidence in the players they play with a lack of confidence. This team has shown they are tentative when hitting the holes, going up and battling for the ball on passes.
3) “Staying the course”: If you always do, what you’ve always done. You’ll always get, what you always got” Staying the course is good of you see improvement in the direction you have chosen, but when the results don’t change form week to week or year to year you have to be open minded enough to be willing to learn from the mistakes and plot a different course. Fulmers reluctance to make the necessary changes in the offensive and defensive schemes has left this team too predictable. Good coaches identify a team’s tendencies and develop schemes to beat their opponents at their own game.
4) Poor Preparation: Twice this season and too many times in the last 5-6 years Tennessee has looked as if it did not have a clue as to what their opponent was going to do. Every great coach will make some adjustments week to week in preparation for the upcoming opponents. No one wants to show their full hand prior to a game. Great coaches know what each opponents weakness is and develops game plans accordingly to beat them.
5) Parity: “Parity” is a much used word in college football today. And this years games have shown us that much. With parity though comes the greater need to over come what I have listed as weaknesses in items 2-4. It takes Guts to change what you are doing. Nothing new is easy because of our comfort level with what we already know. The need to change in college football today is evident because of parity. No longer do you have a by-week. You cannot rest on what you have done in the past with any hopes of success in the future. Being poorly prepared only shows a lack of leadership at all levels. It is easy to blame players for poor performances but the reality is they are only as prepared as their teachers make them. In short “No guts, no glory”, no change and “The Song Remains The Same”, and poor preparation will get you beat every time.
Sometimes it is not if you lose that matters as much as how you lose. Watching UT being out performed, out prepared by teams that rarely have that higher or even as high of a talent level leaves only one conclusion. It is a problem from the very top and yes it does roll down hill.

Posted by debaser11 on October 21, 2007 at 1:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Listen to DSaVol. He was right before and he's right now.
You can't dream about tomorrow until this nightmare ends!

(all the Excedrine in the world won't help...)

Posted by grvol on October 21, 2007 at 2:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Parity? TN is not on par with any team.

Posted by Retiredvol on October 21, 2007 at 3:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hamilton you idiot since you gave Fulmer a two year extension last season with a 9-4 record you pay the settlement costs out of your OWN bank account. We are going to be stuck another year with Phil unfortuneately!!
Another losing season.

Posted by ehorne1308 on October 21, 2007 at 4:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)

PHIL WILL NOT LEVE TILL HE GOOD AND READY AND NO BODY AT UT WILL DO A THING ABOUT IT.

HE KNOW WHERE THE BODY ARE BURIED AND HE WILLING TO TAKE DOWN THE WHOLE SPORTS PROGRAM IF ANYONE TRY TO OUT HIM NOW YOU KNOW THE WHOLE STORY !

Posted by tennisvol on October 21, 2007 at 4:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Looks like UT had a good ride for the past three games before Bama, but the team and coaches finally turned back into the pumpkin.

Posted by dburgin0114 on October 21, 2007 at 5:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Coach, have a press conference and talk sense, in other words try to tell the truth as you see it. No more of stay the course, study films, work harder BS. If the coachs,(you included) and the players are lousy, just tell the truth. Everyone can see that things are bad, tell everyone WHY. I'm not a coach but I can see that other teams are better than us, WHY?
People change, seasons change and nothing stays the same, i.e. Fla. State, Notre Dame, Michigan, Penn State, etc etc.
I want to know who is responsible at my school for the current ongoing mess, 1998 was nine years ago, so you can not expect to live off of that forever, please tell the Tn fans what you are going to do about it. Thanking you in advance

Posted by jwilso28 on October 21, 2007 at 5:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)

If I have to watch Heffney talk trash after being out of position or lucking out due to a poor pass I will puke. Why is he returning punts, not catching the ball and completely flipping field position. The coaches are idiots, and yes the freshmen Vinson and Berry had trouble just like everyone, but I saw effort. Piss poor to use them as an excuse Fulmer.

Posted by tuscavol on October 21, 2007 at 5:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I am a Vol fan from Tuscaloosa Al, so you know the
life I live here. For weeks I have waited on the day we played Bama again. I wanted another year of silence from the chatter of the Crimson faithful. I had no idea that day would end the way it did. So now, that useless chatter will become an irritating roar. You may think I am unimportant because of where I live, but you will find no bigger fan the I anywhere in Tennessee.
I am very aware of the SEC's talent. Any team can beat you on any given Saturday. We didn't get beat, we gave the game away. Our offense has held it's own most of time but yesterday it shot itself in the foot. Why would we give up on the run game if it got us two very impressive touchdowns. Foster was picking them apart. After those two scores, our offense left the game. The defense on the other hand has been our achilles heel this whole season. The talent is on the field, it just isn't managed right. I've watched the defense nose dive for the past six years. Every game, theres a question mark over the defense. Something has got to be done before this program falls so far it can't be pulled out. I can take a lose as long as we show up to play. Yesterday we didn't.........GO VOLS!!!!

Posted by WCT59 on October 21, 2007 at 6:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Any idiot that thinks stabbing someone in the back is just life, needs his head examined. I am not a Johnny Majors supporter, but I sure in heck didn't like the way Fulmer back stabbed the old guy. Jethro Nation will continue to accept mediocrity as long as Fulmer is allowed to coach this team. What is guy's record against Spurrier, Saban, Richt, and Meyer?

Posted by grvol on October 21, 2007 at 6:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Phat Phil thinks he's a great coach. He gloated that thought to Pennington, other media and the fans after the GA game. He will not go with dignity. No he will have to be escorted out of the building by UT Police.

Posted by tngeoff on October 21, 2007 at 6:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

WCT59,

That is very well put. It doesn't matter that you're not a Majors supporter...just that you see the point. What many on here fail to realize is that there are plenty of people in Tennessee and outside that remember what happened and its ugly. People can turn a blind eye or act like it was all Majors fault all they want...but there are plenty of folks clamoring for an apology from the University and the saboteurs.

This issue is similar to last week when two folks on here kept dogging me and trying to say that myself and a few others on this site are THE ONLY ones that want Fulmer out of here. I gave them link after link and still they smugly tried to belittle me. I don't care. I said "Wait a few games and we'll see." Well...it didn't take a few games. I also said that the National media was coming after Phil. Then last week before the Bama game, ESPN online came hard. That is just the beginning. Now, after this past weekend debacle, its gonna' get ugly and yes...the Majors issue will come up Nationally. Time to end the saga and tell the truth.

Posted by tngeoff on October 21, 2007 at 6:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I even saw one guy posting something ignorant about none of his ex players liked him. Read this link for one obvious example. There are plenty more. Also see Basilios new column about about a collaberation of Tennessee folks and Bama folks. Very interesting stuff. Although his explanation of "Trying to ruin Tennessee football" is a stretch.

http://www.metropulse.com/articles/20...

Posted by 55Vol on October 21, 2007 at 7:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)

jcvet... 1986 TN-Ala....Bobby Humphrey ran all over the TN defense much like ALA passed yeaterday. Alabama-56 TN-28. Both games looked alot like each other. No defense for Tn...no defense

Posted by pdhuff on October 21, 2007 at 8:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Phil - Phil -Phil - Phil, I hardly know ye!No sense raving, I'm through with that.The only amusing thing will be seeing how the Fulmerites spin this disaster. They'll say you must blindly support the Orange. I do, but I REFUSE to blindly accept sub-par coaching and preparation. Trailing by seven and refusing to go for TWO YARDS on fourth down !!! 11 or so penaltys! and so on and on! How does four more losses sound! It's coming up shortly. Maybe La-lafayette will be a W. What a wasted opportunity with SC losing!! Hamilton, step up and drop the shoe. Boycott Pilot Oil, do something. I feel better now. Go Vols!

Posted by cookvol1 on October 21, 2007 at 8:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I had someone close to the program tell me after Dickey retired it would be a downward spiral,I didnt believe it,but oh how right he was.This has been coming for several years now and it has finally taken its toll,there has to be fresh ideas in Knoxville come spring practice or the bottom will fall completely out.Mike Hamilton,you sir are on the HOTSEAT now,make a change at seasons end and have someone in line so recruiting isnt lost.2008, GO BIG ORANGE!!!!

Posted by Volfan1 on October 21, 2007 at 9:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)

OK, the season is playing out too fast and too badly.
Anyone think Tommy Tuberville could come here?
He's got Bama's number. He can beat Florida. He wins no matter who is his assistants. He can recruit (if you think getting kids to Knoxville is bad, try getting them to Auburn, AL). He's got an undefeated season on his resume.
Oh, and maybe someone could remind him of a little Auburn AD plane trip to Louisville to encourage him to come here.
Don't kill me....Just a thought.

Posted by TSNVol on October 21, 2007 at 10:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Coaching, coachng, coaching....We got ripped again!
1) Why didn't UT wear down the Bama D by running the ball more with fresh legs? Fulmer was asked by Bob Kesling after the game about Hardensty. Was he hurt? Fulmer said oh no, we just couldn't find a place to put him in. hmmmmmm Well I ask, where was Foster? He was beginning to click and the coaches pulled him. I've noticed, with other teams, they run the hell out of their stars and they usually get 100+ yards per game. Especially when that player is showing progress. Tennessee's coaches seem to hold back their stars like they don't want them to be superstars. Have you also noticed this?
Well I dont understand whats going on with the Vol coaches, but for me, I can't really get excited about UT football anymore. They're no longer exciting to watch...it's kinda boring.
You wanna see exciting...watch the LSU/Auburn game! Just one note about that game....did you see that kickoff return bby Auburn when the five players huddled around the ball near the 4 yard line on an LSU kick? Their backs were to the onrushing Tigers kicking team and all of a sudden they broke and LSU had to find the ball. That player ran the ball to around the 40. Thats excitement!!!!
Tennessee's coaches are "OLD SCHOOL" they have NO imagination what so ever.

Posted by oldbasshead on October 21, 2007 at 10:29 p.m. (Suggest removal)

When a coaching staff can only keep their jobs by winning and losing means they lose their jobs, that means their jobs are on shaking ground regardless of the outcome of the games. The current UT coaching staff has lost the confidence of the fans. There was a momentary let up in the call for Fulmer's firing after the GA and MS game, but it returned immediately after the Ala blowout. Even if UT wins out, they lost big time to their largest rivals and fans will not forget or forgive that unless Fulmer can compete in the SEC next year as well and I don't see that happening.

Posted by awhill00 on October 21, 2007 at 10:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Here's a prediction: Fulmer will not be back next year. It's time for a graceful exit. It is clear that the program is not improving and it certainly is not anywhere near what should be expected at the University of Tennessee. Mike Hamilton will do his homework, hire a new head coach, and the Vols will move into a new era of success. I doubt it will be Spurrier or Tuberville (though either one could win big at Tennessee). For those who think Jim Levitt wouldn't leave South Florida to come to Knoxville... think again. And here's the bottom line: another year of Fulmer and staff is not going to get us any closer to the level of success that the fans, alums, or administration expect. I appreciate all that Fulmer and his staff(s) have contributed to this program, but it is simply time for some new energy and a new philosophy. It's time to compete for SEC East titles, SEC conference titles, and NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS once again. GO VOLS!!

Posted by VOLinKorea on October 22, 2007 at 4:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)

tngeoff,

Do you love Johnny Majors? I mean, do you really love him? Isn't he dead anyway?

Fire Chavis!!!

GO VOLS!!!

Posted by tngeoff on October 22, 2007 at 7:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)

VOLinKorea,

Hey Bro'. Hope all is well. No. I just respect him for all he did for Tennessee Football and hate what happened to him and its made more annoying watching how this goes with Fulmer. I, along with many others just want him vindicated. That's all.

Posted by pdhuff on October 22, 2007 at 8:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)

All I want for christmas is a new coaching staff!

Posted by phi0129 on October 22, 2007 at 8:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)

awhill: I completely agree, Leavitt WILL leave for a big time college football program next year or the year after and it's our job to get him first. I think he would be a great fit for our team. Hell, I'm willing to endure a couple of years of a Zook if it ultimately lands us a coach like Meyer. What's the difference between how things are now? Knowing we have no shot of doing anything...it makes me sad. My favorite coaching call on Saturday:

We put Creer in for his first play of the game on a 3rd and 1 around the AL 40 (after Foster has been killing their D) and get stuffed. Then, even though our O line has been moving them at will ALL DAY, we decide to punt on 4th down and save 20 yards of field position. This allows AL to drive the length of the field and score a TD with 12 seconds left. Minus the miracle Godsend field goal, this simple stupid coaching mistake might have been the difference in us being up 4 at half as opposed to them being up 10. I just couldn't believe that call. I knew as soon as we punted that it was going to be HUGE.

Posted by SmokeDog72 on October 22, 2007 at 9:12 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Hamilton is still talking about winning the East? Give me a break. We may not end up bowl eligible.

Our athletic department is reminding me of a crack addict who swears he doesn't have a problem.

Denial, denial, denial.

Problem recognition:
When you realize there is a difference between your actual condition and your desired state.

Are we where we want to be? 5th in the East? Getting waxed by rivals? Anyone who is content to be where we are must have grown up an Ole Miss fan. I can handle close, competitive losses to other SEC schools from time to time. But, I can't handle this crap. Losing to Bama and Florida by an average of 31.5 points? Ole Miss played both of those schools closer and I am hearing that they are the worst in the conference this year. Are we sure about that?

We must deal with the reality of the situation. Talent wise we are middle of the road. Coaching wise we are in the bottom 25% of the conference. When you can't out-talent half of the teams in the SEC and you can't outcoach 3/4 of the teams, what the hell do you think is going to happen?

I think we have seen twice (in conference) and I am sure we will see at least two more times.

Kentucky is going to score 60 against our D. I will be curious to see if our basketball gives up fewer points to UK than our football team.

Posted by reachkim00 on October 22, 2007 at 9:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Simple.. Fat Fulmer is done here, has been for the past few years. Time to step down and stop the bleeding. Stats, numbers all the crap don't mean squat without leadership. The only thing Phil can lead is the next porkchop to his mouth!

Go Gamecocks!

Posted by vscebail on October 22, 2007 at 9:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)

So much for controlling our own destiny -- AGAIN!!! I can handle losing - as long as we're competitive. But in our three losses this year we have given up 145 POINTS! I guess we shouldn't have piled so many of our older losses onto Randy Sander's shoulders - Kentucky is looking better than us now -- IN FOOTBALL!!!

Posted by webbofconfusion on October 22, 2007 at 11 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I like the coaches... but right now I think Hamilton should shake the tree.

I can only say "ugh" about the game.... with no enthusiasm...

someone should grab the wheel and right the ship.

Posted by Southland on October 22, 2007 at 11:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I ask again where are all the big mouths that called people idiots for saying the program is in decline? Where are you now? Why so silent. We were all idiots and not true fans after we beat Georgia. Why so silent now? maybe you forgot how to type or you are just so smart that you want dignify all of us idiots with one of your super intelligent comments. I repent once again for wanting Randy Sanders gone. I am sorry Randy. You are doing a fantastic job at UK and you could have at UT if you were not being strangled by a head coach that forgot how to play to win but is coaching to save his job and doing a mighty poor job of that. When UT plays its biggest rivals the players should be so fired up they should be on valium just to get them calmed down. Instead they show up without a bit of fire in their belly just like the coach. Looking for the experts and "always be a fan's" remarks. Some of you know it all people need to understand that the ones wanting CF fired love UT and always have. No one is more anxious about a game than I am and have been that way for 35 years. You self righteous people that question our loyalty need to understand some of us have been through some very difficult times with the Vols. We have suffered long and hard and we still love the Vols. We love coach Fulmer but also have the sense to say it is time to step down. He has done a lot and he should have gone out when the program started going down. I forgive anyone for not knowing when it is time to leave because that is hard to determine but now CF it is time

Posted by newrandyt on October 22, 2007 at 11:39 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I have just read most of the posts here. Having been in Knoxville from the beginning of the Majors era to Dawg country in Georgia for the last 8 years of Phil fulmer, several things need to be said.

1) What is this lovefest for Johnny Majors? The only good team he EVER had only won the SEC because Fl got disquailifed by the NCAA. He consistently (read EVERY YEAR) would lose to a team or two like North Texas, or Rutgers (before they had ANYTHING), or Virginia...and could almost never beat Alabama. Fulmer did bring the team to a new level, following those years of mediocrity with Johnny, by beating Alabama, but then Florida emerged.

2) That said, Spurrier raised the bar for everyone in the SEC, and the game changed. New coaches (Richt, Meyer, Saban, etc.) with new ideas came into the conference, and Fulmer never really adapted. Over the years he has became more and more LIKE Johnny Majors. He would use the same tired old "Prevent Defense" that had the same predictable results as with Johnny (the only thing the "Prevent Defense" ever prevented was UT winning).

3) Cutcliffe brought some imagination to the offenses, and caoched some GREAT QBs...but Randy Sanders made our offenses totally predictable...and the losses started coming regularly. Cut's return proved that he could still coach QB's and receivers, but not being good at reacting to changing game conditions and game planning caused us to get our butts kicked in every bowl game recently.

My point is that the game has passed the current staff by. Tennessee has done well even though it has to go outside of its borders to recruit, but it will be harder now with such a poor record of late. It is time for a change...but not by bringing Johnny back, in any capacity.

Posted by tngeoff on October 22, 2007 at 12:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Jonh Majors last seven years.

1985 9 1 2 5 1 SEC Championship
1986 7 5 0 3 3
1987 10 2 1 4 1 1
1989 11 1 0 6 1
1990 9 2 2 5 1 1 SEC Championship
1991 9 3 0 5 2 SEC Championship

Love affair? How about just plain respect. Compare that to Fulmers. By the way...any big wins in there since you mention some flubs? Shall I list Fulmers flubs for you? How about teams on probation during his tenure? Look at where Majors got fired and where his replacement has been allowed to go. How about comparing bowl records? What I have said and a few others is he deserves an apology...and he does. Spin it any way yuou want to, "Love affairs" "Obession" Blah blah blah. He got dissed big time and now its time to make it right since his understudy has proven that it was a mistake to put him...especially so suddenly. Keep posting all the negative stuff because you fuel the fire and make a National story about the transition much more attractive.

Posted by tngeoff on October 22, 2007 at 1:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Fulmer?

10-11 vs SEC teams over the last 21 games

Last thought..as you diss John Majors...and you only remember flubs along the way...do you remember the team known as The Sugar Vols? Just curious...who coached them? They seem to be a pretty famous group. Can you dis them too?

Posted by tngeoff on October 22, 2007 at 1:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

That 10 - 11 for Fulmer? In the last 21 games? Go back and see how many YEARS...not GAMES you'd have to count for Majors to have that many SEC losses...and yes...include the year Fulmer undermined him.

Posted by hoskinsfive on October 22, 2007 at 1:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Here is what I'm tired of hearing.

Who else could we get? answer ANYONE

Fulmer is a good recruiter. So what, he cant develop talent.

He's loyal to UT. So what, I am too.

The mark of a good coach is someone who wins games that he's not supposed to. When was the last time we upset a better team? Phil cannot get his team fired up, even when they control their own destiny.

All of you Fulmer lovers are living on PLUTO.
WAKE UP!

Posted by rbhobbs73 on October 22, 2007 at 2:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)

tngeoff,

I agree Fulmer needs to go. I have said so in multiple posts here. I also have a tremendous respect for Coach Fulmer and his service to UT. I also have that same respect and admiration for Coach Majors.

However it is the same now as it was then, in that Fulmer needs to leave now just as Majors needed to go then. No one, other than Joe Johnson, Doug Dickey, Johnny Majors and Phillip Fulmer know exactly what went down with regard to Majors. My point is, that you have beaten this dead horse over and over again. Please let it go.
Johnny griped publicly in the media over his contract, acted worse in front of alumni, and couldn't beat Alabama. There is no doubt that Fulmer wanted his job, and I am quite sure there is some truth to Johnny's accusations toward Phil. However, Johnny has never held himself accountable for the problems HE was responsible for. Like any situation, there is Johnny's side, Fulmer's side, and the truth lies somewhere in the middle. Please let it go.

Now, if you want to start a campaign to have Majors' number retired and/or a statue of him in front of Neyland Stadium, then I am all aboard for that. But can we please stop rehashing the "did Fulmer, or did he not get Johnny fired"? routine.

I like your analysis on the current state of the program, so can we continue that in hopes that we can get UT back to Championship Level?

Posted by Ditchdigger on October 22, 2007 at 2:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I live in Arizona and have put in calls to Hamilton and all you East Tennesseans need to light the phones up all day and night until he listens. Picket his office if that is what it takes. He needs to know how serious we as die hard Vols fans are about our program and give Fulmer one opportunity to resign then fire him today.

Posted by Ditchdigger on October 22, 2007 at 2:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)

As I said two weeks ago Spurrier will be our new head coach next year.

Posted by garryab on October 22, 2007 at 3:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I have been reading the responses here for the last month and finally decided to give my input. I was born and raised in Knoxville and went to UT. I and my family live in Birmingham, AL for the last 5 years and our only child is goes to the University of AL and is a member of the Million Dollar Band. Therefore I have been to all of Bama's home games this year. I watched Bama's quarterback when he was in High School at Hoover High and noticeed he has not changed in how he reacts to pressure on the field.
I felt going into Saturdays game th