Posted by Calbears40 on September 2, 2007 at 12:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)

It was a great series. I am glad my team showed up today to show the country that they do play football on the west coast too and to show the sec there is speed on our team as well. Tennessee played with heart and kept coming back. Good luck on your season and thanks for being a gracious host to me on your website. I will visit your website again.

Posted by denverhess01 on September 2, 2007 at 12:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)

The O played pretty darn good, but you can't expect to give up 31 points on defense and still win. The Defense better regroup before next week.

Posted by Phowell23 on September 2, 2007 at 12:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)

That CAL Offense was fairly impressive. Looks like you guys are going to do very well this year. Not to take anything from the CAL team but our defense did not seem ready to play. CAL was getting yards in 20 yard chunks all night.

It was great to watch Ainge call plays at the line. He was fun to watch although it seemed like we abandoned the run a little too early in the 2nd half.

Posted by TurboFan on September 2, 2007 at 12:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Calbear40, you indeed have been a model visitor. Hope some regulars on this site learn something from your standard of conduct. You not only had speed on your side, you had players that knew how to use it. Please, please, beat the heck out of USC.

Posted by jandjhome on September 2, 2007 at 12:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)

We now know why practices as closed to the media,Fulmer did not want them to know the truth about the Great Chief's defense.Worst tackling I have ever seen by the Big Orange.

Posted by atlorange on September 2, 2007 at 12:34 a.m. (Suggest removal)

The defenses was absolutely abismal. I was not impressed with the offense. We still could run the ball with any consistency. The coaching staff is STILL in love with 5 and 6 yard swing passes. NOTE: We do not have the athletes to turn the 5 yard play into 80.

I really doubt we will have more than 7 wins this year. Who will be scategoat this year? We know they won't do anything to Fulmer except give him another extension. I am so sick of mediocrity. With putting the second most players in the NFL we should see better results on the field. Fulmer can recruit, but he is not and has nevery been a game day coach.

Posted by surfmaster on September 2, 2007 at 12:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Do we have anybody on the team who can kick the ball past the 20 yard line on kickoffs? I thought we were doing well to hold them to the 40 yard line on kickoff returns.

Posted by brokebackvol on September 2, 2007 at 12:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Good game and congrats to the Bears - they outplayed the Vols tonight, but the Vols were not as horrible as some people want to claim.

Posted by andy112382 on September 2, 2007 at 12:37 a.m. (Suggest removal)

First of all, Calbears40, congrats, your team played a heckuva game. Punt return and fumble return were the difference guys. Cal has some awesome playmakers, we didn't play bad as much as Cal just played solid. Everything we messed up on is very fixable, go back, fix it and beat Florida and all will be forgiven! We certainly learned a lot more today about what we need to do to go win the rest of our games than we would opening with western kentucky! We will be fine, our WRs were solid and so was the running by Foster, and how about the kickoff returns??? Much better! I'll still take 11-1 any year! =) This has no effect on conference play, lets just Pray for Mitchell. Hey, remember, be glad you are not a Michigan fan - just goes to show you, could always be worse! haha. GO VOLS!!! Good game, two very talented teams, shame someone had to lose.

Posted by jedtrdvols on September 2, 2007 at 12:37 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I like coach cut but if we do not become more patient with our run game we are in for a 8 win season. There is no excuse for third and 1 throwing a flare pass or first and goal from the 2 and throwing twice!! We outweighed them an average of nearly 40 pounds with a 230+ pound back. For goodness sake run the ball!!!

Posted by andy112382 on September 2, 2007 at 12:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)

By the way, I don't think it was our defense not being able to catch up to Cal as it was we overran like every other play. Go back and watch if you don't know what I am talking about, we had guys simply overshoot their targets, once again, something that can be fixed and this defense will grow with the season. GO VOLS!!!

Posted by jlange on September 2, 2007 at 12:40 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Kinda figured the secondary would have some problems, but the defensive line play was disappointing. Got to find DE's who can pressure from the edge.

Posted by jedtrdvols on September 2, 2007 at 12:40 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Mitchell you will be in our prayers.

Posted by jandjhome on September 2, 2007 at 12:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I believe you have had a double of orange kool-aid tonight Andy.

Posted by surfmaster on September 2, 2007 at 12:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I thought the announcers got it right when they said Cal finally figured out we can't throw the ball downfield more than 20 yards and started bringing the safeties up and shut us down. With a limited passing game, and a junior varsity caliber defense, I don't see how we beat Florida, Georgia, Arkansas or South Carolina. That's a 7-5 season. (Assuming you don't count our music city bowl loss to East Carolina)

Posted by cagntn on September 2, 2007 at 12:45 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Kevin Rhea could have put more pressure on the QB

Posted by TurboFan on September 2, 2007 at 12:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Jed, the mistake on the first and goal at the 2 was having Hardesty jump over the middle on 1st down. The OL got pushed back, obviously, we had to do something different on 2nd. You're right Andy, our own speed killed us as it has for several years in tackling, especially on special teams. If you are going full speed and the ball carrier is standing still, one well timed side step easily makes you miss. STOP GOING FOR THE KILL SHOT!!! Slow down and make him commit one way or the other.

Posted by RocketVol on September 2, 2007 at 12:49 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Tennessee obviously has no deep threat. On another note, was I the only person in America that saw a spear on the play Ainge coughed up the ball? Tackler lead into Ainge with his helmet - right into the back. I was arm-chair shouting flag - but neither commentator even discussed it.

Posted by jedtrdvols on September 2, 2007 at 12:52 a.m. (Suggest removal)

WD, if our offensive line cannot go 2 yards in 4 plays we got major problems. You are right on with the kill shot, wrap up and put him on his tail!

Posted by TurboFan on September 2, 2007 at 12:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Nope, you weren't the alone in the US Rocket. How about the pass interferences on the two plays before the Lincoln field goal? I think Brent Musberger spends too much time chowing to actually watch the game, but that doesn't stop him from talking. Looks like he is getting a reverse dunlop disease.

Posted by Rebelsfball2008 on September 2, 2007 at 12:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)

when Martin gets back....if ever..(this Year) then the pass rush problem will be diminished greatly...even if teams have to double team him that opens up some holes somewhere...

(keep in mind this is only if he is as good as coaches and scouts say he is..)

Also if we had Coker this would have been a much different game.......Example the Foster run to the 3...If Coker had goten to that hole the Cal DB would have been 10 yards behind him. Also the kickoff return that Foster had, would have been taken to the house no prob.....By no means am i making excuses for the Vols or saying Foster cant play..he proved that he can be a top quality back and can deff. be a game breaker if given space. but i am saying,in context,that once again the mistakes of one can,does,and will affect the entire team....good luck to Cal as well as the Vols. Learn from your mistakes and move on.

Posted by andy112382 on September 2, 2007 at 1 a.m. (Suggest removal)

jandjhome - no I just call it as I see it, bud.

Yea there were a handful of times I was wondering where some pass inteference calls were, at least on two occassions. The Ainge fumble wasn't exactly a good omen to start with, but as far as that goes, if the ball had landed forward, would it not have been a fumble? His arm was going forward, correct?

This team has seemed like a very focussed team, I think they will respond well, and remember guys, it was an opener, and for a season opener I thought we played pretty darn well, look at the lack of penalties and turnovers outside the opening position. Ainge was certainly solid, back at 68% completion percentage with 3 TDs and no INTs. Still got conference play ahead of us, so don't go jumping off any bridges, take a step back and see what needs tweaking and fixing and come back out even better and beat the gators! GO VOLS!!!

Posted by RocketVol on September 2, 2007 at 1 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Yep, I think our boys met a national title contender today in Cal. Just hope they don't look past South.Miss. A Florida win would make this all go away. Only concerning note I have on offense, other than deep threat non-existent, is it seems our running plays don't follow blockers anymore. I hate to say this, but Johnny Major's backs used to side step and kill enough time for holes to open before heading upfield. Seems like our backs today hit the line before anything develops. Alright, I'm East Coast, time to call it and wake up pissed.

Posted by dyoung2020 on September 2, 2007 at 1:03 a.m. (Suggest removal)

First off, our kicking game was a joke. Second where did Lucas Taylor go? Why were we trying to work in our freshman WRs in the 4th quarter. Why was that not PI on the two passes to Brent Vinson in the 4th.

Arian Foster HAS to score on the big run in the 3rd quarter when he gets caught from behind.

The screen pass is only effective when it is a surprise, you can't run it 20+ times in one game. Our LB's played horrible.

But.....Ainge looked pretty good, I thought Foster ran hard, and Eric Berry is going to be a star.

We're in trouble if we can't run the ball better and have to settle for 3 yard passes.

Posted by californiavol on September 2, 2007 at 1:06 a.m. (Suggest removal)

in re: rocketvol; I, too, noticed what appeared to be a devastating spear into the qb's back, and I'm glad that Ainge was able to get up and still play after that. Could've been a season/career ender. I agree with everyone that the big orange tackling was atrocious. Not to diminish the athletic abilities of our opponents, but I take pride in the way the vols usually knock the teeth out of anyone approaching the line. Not just missed tackles; flat out whiffed tackles is more like it. And I can't remember the last time I saw a Tennessee game where the opposing quarterback was never touched, rushed or hurried let alone sacked. Pitiful. Nevertheless, we were the only team in America that actually put our reputation on the line in the first game of the season. I like the no-huddle, just actually do something other than short passes with it, please. If this is any indication of the future of the season, look out! I think it's the best start in a few years.

Posted by dyoung2020 on September 2, 2007 at 1:06 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm not all for being negative, but man it is the same thing year in and year out. Poor tackling, and conservitive playcalling. How about using a tailback that doesn't outweigh our head coach?

Posted by Phowell23 on September 2, 2007 at 1:09 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Ainge looked really good even with a broken finger.

A. Foster ran well but he seem to wear down too quickly. I also wonder why they were putting in freshmen receivers when we still had plenty of time for a come back.

Why did we punt with almost 2 minutes left on the clock? Why not at least go for it...I guess he didn't want them to score 50+ on us.

Dear Chavis, please get our defense back in form before we have to travel to Florida or this is going to be one long year.

Posted by andy112382 on September 2, 2007 at 1:11 a.m. (Suggest removal)

LeMarcus Coker.....we get him back next week, if you add that in to what we saw tonight and get on of our WRs up to being a consistent deep threat (which I truly believe we can) than I think we will all be happy about the rest of the season. GO VOLS!!!

Posted by Rebelsfball2008 on September 2, 2007 at 1:12 a.m. (Suggest removal)

agreed Andy

Posted by ozarkvol on September 2, 2007 at 1:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Congrats to Cal. You guys have a top 5 offense and have some good special teams play. But your defense is average at best but you do have a few playmakers over there. You have to improve that defense if you are going to beat USC. I will be pulling for you.

Posted by bigfan502 on September 2, 2007 at 1:16 a.m. (Suggest removal)

THE VOL DEFENSE WEAS THE CULPRIT IN THE VOLS LOSS TONIGHT AGAINST CAL., POOR TACKLING WAS THE MAIN REASON WE LOST THE GAME.THIS IS A BLOW TO THE SEC AND ADDS TO THE PAC 10'S CONTENTION THAT SOUTHERN TEAMS ARE PAPER TIGERS...THUS UNLESS WE EVER HAVE A PLAYOFF, THE PERCEPTION WILL CONTINUE.

Posted by bige14 on September 2, 2007 at 1:16 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I hope I am wrong but alot of UT's problems tonite are not "fixable" in one week. We have no deep threat wide receivers to count on. Our backs looked good and the O-line did a respectable job, but teams will single cover our wideouts and bring the safety into the box to stop our running game and screens. And our d-line cannot generate pressure with just the four down lineman, nor can they plug the run, which means more blitzing by the linebackers and more man coverage by the secondary. Forsett had over 150 yards rushing and looked like he was running downhill in the second half. I hate to be pessimistic but while our tackling should improve, we can't fix the problems we have now with anything but recruiting, and that won't happen til AFTER the season. I hope I am wrong, but while Cal had some exceptional skill postion people, its not well beyond what we'll see in the SEC's best. And the new kickoff rule will kill us as atrocious as our kick coverage units are. The General and Coach Cafego must be rolling in their graves! If we don't at least get the kicks deeper the avg starting field position of our opponents will be the 35 or 40 yard line! ANd with this defense, that's going to be killer!

Posted by dyoung2020 on September 2, 2007 at 1:17 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Also please quit calling what we run a no huddle, while technically there is "no" huddle, we are running the same thing we did with Rick Clausen 3 years ago. Get with the 90's and start running some slants, posts, deep crosses. Our only "down field" passes are go routes.

Coach Fulmer please take Coach Major's playbook and burn it, and start running your own plays.

Thanks.

Posted by invisiblekid on September 2, 2007 at 1:31 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Wished I could be the eternal optimist like you Andy but I don't know that some of the problems with the run defense are easily correctable. You're right, overpursuit is a problem but it was a problem for much of last year and has spilled over into the season opener with no end in sight. The bigger issue in my opinion is the way our tackles have been pushed around. No penetration and getting swallowed up to allow some gaping holes for RB's are becoming a common theme for these guys. Forsett did a good bit of his damage right up the middle and the way the defense wilted at the end is not a good sign, Cal imposed their will on them in the 4th quarter. I think we have been and will continue to sorely miss Harrell because it just doesn't look like we have a player of his caliber available at this point.

Posted by FatherVol on September 2, 2007 at 1:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Calbear, thanks for visiting. I wish some of our own members had teh same sense of graciousness as you. My team may have lost, but it was a good game. It was even except for the two big plays: Ainge's fumble and Jackson's return. Good luck and do come back for a visit...but leave your team home. LOL

Posted by bigfan502 on September 2, 2007 at 1:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)

VOL FANS LETS FACE IT. WE DO NOT HAVE A DEFENSE WHATSOEVER...AND HAVE NOT HAD ONE FOR SEVERAL YEARS.....WHAT ARE SWE GOING TO DO ABOUT IT?

Posted by andy112382 on September 2, 2007 at 1:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Oh, to tag onto the Coker returning comment of mine, Foster did average 6.8 yards/carry and did not fumble, I would say Foster is back closer to his form when he filled in for Riggs and ran all over people.....with Coker back, I think they should run a set where we have two running backs, just add that much more for oppossing defenses to cover and not know exactly where the ball is going, and take some pressure off the WRs. Just a thought.....oh, and I was really impressed with Chris Brown getting that first down in the second half where he took a dive to get the little extra, that showed me a lot and so did the fact they did not stop fighting. Cal is certainly capable of playing for a national title. We may be a year from being quite at that spot, but I think we can get an SEC crown at least. I'll take 11-1 any year! =) Like I stated above, for an opener, where traditionally teams look stale and such, I thought we looked much better than we have in openers in the past!

Posted by andy112382 on September 2, 2007 at 1:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Oh, as far as a deep threat, Lucas Taylor did average 17.2 yard/catch, so at least that is a start. There weren't many dropped balls either, as one would have probally expected as bad as that made our WRs sound before the game, plus 8 different people caught a pass, so spread it around a bit. I see plenty of things from the game to find promosing, take care of business with Southern Miss and then beat those gators, you would be looking at 3-1 going into the georgia game and in the drivers seat in the east, especially if you take care of business at home against the dawgs. GO VOLS!!!

Posted by FatherVol on September 2, 2007 at 2 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Thank you for your positive comments, andy. Too many are down in the mouth on here. I think we can take Florida, but we better not get caught looking ahead next Saturday. At least next eyar we get a week off before Florida. Of course, we'll need it after going to Pasedena to play UCLA on the first Saturday of September. But then, Crompton will have a warm-up game against UAB before making that trip.

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

Those two big plays were the difference on the scoreboard, but not the difference in the game. There are some fundamental flaws that need to be addressed on the defensive side of the ball. The problem there is that these problems needed to be addressed over the last couple of seasons. The tackling tonight was atrocious, which is par for the course for the past couple of seasons. Even the surest tackler on the team, Mayo, wasn't filling gaps, got out of position, and missed on several tackles. The DL was generating basically no pass rush, and couldn't consistently plug the line on running plays. Bolden needs to step it up, the potential is there. I thought that Eric Berry was doing his best to put a lick on someone. WE NEED MORE TURNOVERS!! The offense tonight was good enough to win with. Colquitt's injury certainly hurt, I can see why he was handling the KOs. Hopefully Mitchell wasn't seriously injured. The punt return was more of a great individual effort than poor coverage, sometimes you get burnt. I hope the D can take this performance and use it as motivation to improve. If so, Vols still have a great shot at the East. If not, well, lets not go there right now.

Posted by TurboFan on September 2, 2007 at 2:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Dyoung, you're right, that was the "freeze" not a "no huddle". Didn't make a whiff of difference did it. Although, both Taylor, Rogers and Brown caught passes on slants and crossings, but I'm begining to wonder if Ainge can throw it downfield, or is he taking the safer pass?

Posted by bcmelton on September 2, 2007 at 2:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I miss the Al Wilson, Will Overstreet, John Henderson, and Deon Grant types that used to reside on this team. Solid, hard-nosed, playmakers. The last few years, there have been too many that look like Tarzan, and play like Jane.

Posted by pastor_VOLSfan on September 2, 2007 at 2:12 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Offense played well enough to win tonight but the defense was not ready. I think we have the talent and the people to develop the deep threat but we may not see it until week three or four. The other young receivers played well and will only get better. Our running blocking was better than last year and Foster is a good quality back but we need Coker's speed.

Defense is another story and I am not sure what the answer is or if it is all fixable. They are going to have to work harder than any defense with the new kickoff rule. Not sure what Cal's average starting line was but it felt like the 35-40. Over persuit and better discipline can be corrected with coaching but toughness can not and we did not look tough up front most of the night. I still say that this is a good game win or lose to acurately measure the team by and it gives them some real film against a quality opponent to learn from. I still feel that this game does not make or break our season and over the next couple of weeks we will see what this team is made of and what kind of coaching staff we have.

As far as special teams - i will do what I have been doing the last few years - close my eyes, hold my breath and pray till the play is over.

Got to go to bed or I will be nodding off in the pulpit tomorrow. I will sleep a little better knowing that Michigan lost to IAA App St and that ND lost big.

Good night and God bless

Posted by andy112382 on September 2, 2007 at 2:13 a.m. (Suggest removal)

FatherVol, yes you are right, never overlook southern miss. And I said going into the georgia game after win over florida we would be 3-1, I did not mean to make it sound like the Arkansas St. game was a sure thing without thinking about it, after all Texas apparently had some problems tonight with them judging by the closer-than-one-would-think final score. Plenty of reason to be optimistic, though, just given the fact they didn't stop fighing, didn't turn it over after the initial Ainge fumble, and did not panic after that happened, very few penalties and no stupid things like having to take timeouts because of playclock issues, etc. And our kickoff returns were MUCH better this time out, plus Foster didn't fumble!

Posted by oaktowner on September 2, 2007 at 2:19 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Vols, your offense looked terrific today--especially Ainge. His first half was absolutely unbelievable.

Neither of our defenses showed much--both teams need to improve on that side of the ball. Ainge picked us apart, and we can't let that happen again. Your secondary kept our receivers in check, which surprised me, but it was our running game that kept us in it. Well, of course, the two big plays had a huge part, too--but if you had stopped Forsett, they wouldn't have mattered.

I'd like to say one more time that last year in Knoxville, Vol fans impressed me. I've been to Notre Dame, I've been to Ann Arbor, SC, the Rose Bowl, and Husky Stadium at UW (when they were good): I think Neyland is the toughest place in the country to play, and I think Tennessee fans are a class act.

We'll do our best to beat SC, you guys get on that defense and take out the SEC.

Posted by bigfan502 on September 2, 2007 at 2:19 a.m. (Suggest removal)

VOL FANS ITS THE DEFENSE...THERE IS NO WAY YOU CAN WIN THE BIG GAMES WITHOUT A N AVERAGE RUN DEFENSE...THIS IS SOMETHING THAT THE VOLS DO NOT HAVE...NO RUSHING THE PASSER ADDS SALT TO THE WOUND.

Posted by ONUV on September 2, 2007 at 2:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)

fire fulmer

Posted by lennybruce59 on September 2, 2007 at 2:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Eric Ainge came into his own tonight with the best performance of his TN career. I haven't seen such leadership and competence since Peyton's days. He repeatedly handled adversity, made plays and kept his team together in the face of tough situations.
You can't expect to travel to the west coast, go up against a top caliber team and win very often. You're chances are 1 in 4 in my estimation. All one has to do to entertain my claim is check the stats or simply remember the game in Neyland one year ago. Our players & coaches did not appear intimidated by such a daunting task. On the contrary, I observed a group of well coached, strong hearted young men who kept bringing TN pride to the line.

Posted by snafu14u on September 2, 2007 at 2:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)

We lost to a better team. The good news is that we will get better, how much I don't know.The defense looked slow and tentative on occassion. Run offense and run defense are a big concern. As a side note, Michigan's coach ought to resign. Fall on his sword so to speak.And the poster on our sight that kept saying (in BOLD) the we were "GOING TO FRIGGIN KILL THE GOLDEN BEARS" ought to never post again.He's an idiot. Cal Bear visitor was refreshing. Go Big Orange ...bonzaivol

Posted by andy112382 on September 2, 2007 at 2:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)

oaktowner, thank you for your comments, your Cal team looked pretty darn impressive, plenty of speed and toughness there, so good luck in the PAC-10 and PLEASE beat SoCal, I am tired of hearing the lovefest. During the Idaho highlights you would have thought SoCal was playing in a BCS bowl game or something the way they talk about them, it was IDAHO! They did get beat by Oregon St. and UCLA so they are indeed mortal and I will be pulling to Cal in that one. Heck, best case scenario Tennessee takes care of business and wins the SEC and Cal plays for a national title and we can say we only lost to a national title team! Hmm....so are there chances of playing Cal in a bowl game and making it a best of three series??? haha.

Posted by VT_Vol on September 2, 2007 at 2:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)

May not be adding much new, but I'm trying to be objective. Here goes:

- Vols looked OK overall, maybe one of the top 20-25 teams in the country.

- Cal will end the season as one of the best 5-10 teams in the country.

- Ainge is fine. He's not the problem. WR's and DL are the most pressing concerns. Kickoffs and lack of pressure on QB are next biggest problems.

- Play-calling was unimaginative and uninspired on both sides of the ball. They have to score on the goal line series.

- The game wasn't as close as the score. Vols showed some heart to come back and make a game of it, but as soon as Cal started paying attention again, Vols couldn't compete. Physical dominance reminded me of ARK game last year. Not a good sign.

- E. Berry will be a star and our best DB by the end of the year. He's already our best DB against the run.

- Defense is not very good (especially up-front).

- This year and last year vs. Cal prove that it's very hard to take a bunch of 18-22 year-olds across the country to open a season on national TV against a ranked opponent in a hostile stadium. Nobody is going to win many of those games. Nobody.

- I don't see us beating UF, UGa, or ARK, and I think it will be difficult to beat S. Miss, Ala, S Car, and Ark St (check out their Texas game tonight).

- Given the above, I'm concerned for the first time in the Fulmer era about the direction of the program. They were dominated tonight, albeit by a very good team.

- I have no idea how they fix what's wrong with the program (I'm not even sure anyone can pinpoint what's wrong). Maybe the parity in the sport has just made it impossible to be a top 10 program year in and year out.

- I like Fulmer, and think he should stay as long as he wants to. (You simply can't even consider firing a guy with his credentials and history at the school and be taken seriously. If they lose 5 or 6 games again this year, then you can start considering it.)

- I hope I'm wrong, but Vols tonight looked to me like a (very good) 7-5 team.

Posted by NorCal7437 on September 2, 2007 at 3:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Vols Fans,

First, I really have to hand it to you guys.. for all the smack talkin (which I love, by the way,) you guys have really been pretty gracious in defeat. Respect to you all for that. You're great fans, loyal fans, and you've got a great program to cheer for.

All the nicities aside.. I have to say that Cal really did answer the bell tonight. They put the Pac-10 on their backs, and they did to you all what you did to us last year.. they imposed their will on you, and they were the faster, tougher, more talented football team. Note to the SEC fans who refuse to give respect to the west coast.. we ARE real fans, we DO have real players out here. who hit just as hard, play just as tough, and tonight Cal proved the Pac 10 is not a one team conference. Cal has a long way to go.. we need to improve our defensive effort.. too many mistakes led to big UT gains. Overall, Cal avenged their loss and gained national respect. Great game by both teams, and I wish you all good luck this year.

Posted by mmeletiou on September 2, 2007 at 4:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)

cal played hard tonight for 60 minutes tonight. ten on the other hand seemed to take a couple series off. yeah, i think the ainge fumble was a spear (look at the replay) but one play can't excuse the fact that our boys were tired in the fourth q and couldn't make a solid tackle for most of the game. the punt return proved that they have the real deal. when's the last time anyone returned 4 in a season? we should have kicked a field goal instead of going for it so early, and why we punted with time still on the clock is perplexing when we're only down by 2 scores. all in all, cal is a really good team. that said, with some experience and coaching, tennessee can contend for the sec. but we need to work on fundamental tackling and conditioning.

Posted by CrankE on September 2, 2007 at 5:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)

-Maybe UT didn't believe that Cal was fired up.

-Perhaps they also forgot about DeSean Jackson being a great punt returner.

-It's sad when as a UT fan, you see an incoming punt and are thankful that nobody touched it.

-Oh, NOW we start to kick away from Jackson. And in order to do that, we'll drop in a 20 yard punt that goes out of bounds at the 25. Sigh.

-Is UT ever going to learn how to cover kicks and returns?

-I think Cal is the real deal and they get a tip of the hat from me. Too many playmakers and speed on offense.

-As for UT, the 14 points they handed Cal while being dumb match the margin of victory. Long term, I'm not sure UT is as bad as they looked, nor Cal as great as they looked. Time will tell.

-I knew we were in trouble when Cal was marching 28-21 with the final possession of the first half just knowing that they had the first possession of the third quarter too.

Posted by jawbreaker on September 2, 2007 at 6:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)

You guys have analyzed this thing to death, but accurately. I just went to bed and got up early to read what you have had to say. I had the Vols' score right, but sure missed on Cal's (27 vs. 45). One may be inclined to imply that the 14 point victory margin is simply a function of the fumble and punt returns; but, unfortunately, the reasons are much more complex, and sinister, than that. I felt the key to the game would be the Vols' ability to rush the football, but 111 yards net rushing just doesn't get it done, and makes Lou Holtz look like a seer. Will our offensive line play improve, or continue to plague us for yet another season? Cal has a really good team, and was hitting on most of it's cylinders last night. The Vols, on the other hand, have a long way to go to reach 9 or 10 wins. Calbears40, Wafflehouseblows, NorCal7437, and other Cal posters: you are class acts, have a very good team, and are wished well for the rest of the season by this Vol poster!

Posted by mikeinknoxville on September 2, 2007 at 7:07 a.m. (Suggest removal)

congrats to the bears..they truly have some gifted atheletes. We played pretty well. 3 different times I thought we held the game in our hands. Once when we elected to punt instead of going for it late in the first half. Their goal line stand in the 3rd where I thought our play calling was questionable and last when we got the ball back down by only 7 and failed to get a first down. Even so we showed heart getting back in the game in the second half and I like our chances here on out. If you have to lose a game lose it early and to a non-conference division 1A school. Go vols

Posted by bloodrunsorange on September 2, 2007 at 7:12 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I hope Young will always remember how Follett got to Ainge and who is suppose to protect his back. What terminator? I know Chief will fix the problem. We have the talent to do what the skill positions did to us, but are they ready? Coffer is back and more speed will emerge this week! I know we have the talent to fix everything. This one is gone, learn, and press on! I STILL BELIEVE!

Posted by bloodrunsorange on September 2, 2007 at 7:17 a.m. (Suggest removal)

By the way, the day was not a total loss. Michigan and Notre Dame both bit the dirt!

Posted by BIGEJ on September 2, 2007 at 7:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Hype, no hype, there has been no true heart for years for these Tennessee teams; poorly played games like last night make for another long year on tobacco road....

Posted by gillblog on September 2, 2007 at 7:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Is it just me or is Brent Musberger way overdue for retirement????

#1 problem for UT; no pass rush. This is very basic and is the single thing that would have made the greatest difference last night. Maybe its a 'fixable' problem with different support schemes and such, but mostly what I saw was overmatched and/or underperforming players. And this is a d-line with substantial experience, too. Scary.

Posted by KingsportVol on September 2, 2007 at 7:57 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Why is everybody saying we will be fine Coker will
be back next week?Foster had a great game!!!!!!!
I was very wrong about his team.Our D will get destroyed if we don't make some adjustments now.
The offense looked really good at times except for the same conservative play calling.Special Teams are a complete mess.
Not taking anything away from
a great Cal team.We should have won this game.Speed is no excuse for piss poor tackling.This is not the only team we will face this year with fast players.Longshanks had all day to dump the ball off.Chief needs to get back to work.Thanks to all of the Cal visitors for your classy post this week.
You guy's have reason to be excited this year.
X we pray that you are ok and get back soon.

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

We've got issues that aren't going to be solved with tackling drills.

Posted by 3rdtenn on September 2, 2007 at 8:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I've said it from the start 7-5 and a loss in a bowl. Music city bowl is in our future We have flirted with it before and now it is a reality. One of the postiive things is the guys showed heart for a lot of the second half. When we get behind enough they will begin to lose confidence in the coaches and will not have that heart and will have more losses. I wised we had brought our defense with us. It was a shame just to have brought the offense and left the defense at home for such an important game.

Posted by 3rdtenn on September 2, 2007 at 8:12 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm curious what did some of you see that makes you think we can beat florida at florida?

Posted by Plasticman on September 2, 2007 at 8:23 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Cal has more playmakers than Tenn. Remember, SPEED KILLS. Without Coker, we have no SPEED!! Not to take away from FOster because I thought he ran har, but Coker would have scored on his long run to the 3. We need a WR that can stretch the field. Too many possession receivers (is it just me or does Briscoe look like he is scared to get hit??) Tackling looked worse than what I watched on my sons high school team Fri. night. With that said, we were beat by a better, more talented team (Top 5 IMO) but I still think we can do well in SEC with COker coming back....

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

I watched a lot of college football games on Saturday and UT did the worst job of kicking off of any of the teams I saw all day. The defense has got major problems, the defensive front is not very consistent. I can only recall 1 or 2 plays made by them in the run game and there was very little pressure. Same problems as last year...can't run the ball (109) and can't stop the run (260). Chavis better figure out a way to stop people and quick. I watched the Gators and Dawgs play yesterday and they are very balanced on offense. Vol fans are in for a long year.

Posted by RocketVol on September 2, 2007 at 8:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)

If not for the two big bust plays, this game is Cal playing catch up. Let's face it, that Cal offense was last year, and is now again this year one of the nation's best - period. With them in catch-up mode then they have to go from the run and rely on the pass like we did. Go look at the box score - this game was exactly what the nation expected - two deadeven teams. I bet Cal is in the national title hunt this year in November. And that's the best offense Tennessee sees this year period. I'm not totally on the we-sucked bandwagon. Last night's difference was discipline. The team that makes the fewest mistakes wins (you'd think we would coach Neyland Maxim number 1). Tennessee has a good team - but must quit killing themselves.

Posted by BIGEJ on September 2, 2007 at 8:37 a.m. (Suggest removal)

"Anytime you lose, it's tough," said Ainge, who was 32-of-47 for 271 yards and three touchdowns. "We want to win every time we step on the field. It's nonconference, so the SEC championship is what we want ultimately. It's going to hurt us nationally, but in the SEC, if you win ballgames it's amazing how fast you can climb back up." Taken from the TENNESSEAN; Have the goals changed from winning NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS? MAYBE, that is what is wrong with this team and the staff; a loss or two or five is acceptable; this attitude is enough to turn one's stomach...again no heart, no "marbles."

Posted by Plasticman on September 2, 2007 at 8:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)

C'mon Big EJ, what do you wnat him to say, "THe season is a waste now that we lost a game..." ?? They can still have a great year since their first goal is to win the SEC. I do not think we will play a better team all year (unless we get to Atlanta and play LSU for the Championship).

Posted by ChattanoogaNick on September 2, 2007 at 9:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Hey Demonte Bolden....grow up and start playing some football

Posted by BIGEJ on September 2, 2007 at 9:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)

No plasticman, saying nothing most of the time is better and I am I asking has the standard been lowered consciously or subconsciously by the team, coaches, whomever? They will only have a great year if their HEART matches their talent and abilities; I know that I will be wearing the orange T at church this morning regardless; I am an alumni and I believe but that is not what is needed for these young men to succeed; they as individuals and as a TEAM must have HEART, BELIEVE and DO THEIR BEST; yesterday's performance lacked all 3 elements; this team as with others in the past is loaded with talent but......

Posted by ElizabethtonvolnNC on September 2, 2007 at 9:25 a.m. (Suggest removal)

We gave up 14 points on turnovers. CAL was as advertised, they DO have the playmakers. AND they were frothing at the mouth to play us again...high energy from the beginning...I was impressed with the environment given what I was expecting. That said, our inability to stop the run, AGAIN and no pressure on the quarterback are alarming. I believe it was due to the above mentioned and I still think that we can have a very successful season. Ainge and Foster looked great and I was pleasantly surprised by the WR's. I think as the season progresses we will see a more vertical passing game with the integration of the younger guys. I think the defense, again they were playing a talented CAL offense, will play -TACKLE- much better after some scolding from the coaches....Anyone who thinks this team loses 5 or 6 games after traveling too CAL given CAL's talent AND motivation is a little absurd...IMO

Posted by Plasticman on September 2, 2007 at 9:26 a.m. (Suggest removal)

You can't question their heart. They laid it on the line and were beaten by a team that has more weapons. We spotted them 7 points and were not able to overcome that. I'm an alumni too and have been going to games for 40 years. I do not question this teams heart at all.

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

OK..alot has been said but most of it is orange kool-aid crap from folks willing to accept mediocrity. Here are the FACTS:

* Electing to receive when you win the coin toss is stupid. It only gives the opposing team the potential to double up on you if they score at the end of the half and the first possession of the second half. We've done that to teams too many times to count over the years and it can change the entire game - as it did this one.

* No deep threat? How do we know???? Only 1 throw could be considered a deep ball before we were down 17 and only 2 after that! The middle of the field was open all night when they cleared deep and crossed under.

* Loved the aggressiveness shown by taking a knee from our own 40 with 6 seconds left in the half...wouldn't want to give anybody a chance to make a play or maybe get a lucky bounce.

* Foster averaged 6.7 ypc - well, take away the long one that he couldn't cash and he averaged about 4! He MUST be the slowest starting TB in D-1 - credit his toughness and effort but he is average at best!

* Vinson should have caught the lob down the middle. He waited for it to come down to him rather than going up to get it. There was no PI. He and O'Neal showed they definitely don't like going across the danger zone.

* Vols put up 111 yd rushing - isn't this about the same number they averaged a year ago???? Way to coach em up!

* When you send your starting QB to a wideout spot on the 3 yard line and put your slashy little former QB turned receiver at QB, then stand in formation for about 9 seconds, most rec league players will know what's coming.

* News flash - it's okay to use a blocking FB inside the 2 yard line. Or even 2 of em if you wish.

* Didn't GA beat us a few years ago with a simple little play action in the same spot? Hmmmmm......don't wanna be a copy cat I guess.

* Special teams still suck. Same problems, different season.

* Defense - overpursuit my a$$! These guys couldn't tackle the cheerleaders.

* Defense - someone please tell them it's legal to rush the passer! It's even okay to blitz!

I could go on but why? This is the same crap that's been happening for years and it all goes back to the same cause - you know his name, he's the fattest one on the sideline. He's the one that refuses to make someone accountable for special teams, refuses to hire someone that is truly creative offensively (obviously none of his friends are), and refuses to develop an attack defense. As such, the mediocrity continues. But I'm glad he's excited about this team. Maybe the fans getting free tickets outside of Neyland in November will be too. And I'm glad he's such a great recruiter - imagine how bad it would be if all our "great" players were playing against us! And I'm also thankful he's rich. Maybe the mil he gave back can go toward his buyout!

Posted by waterskier3 on September 2, 2007 at 9:35 a.m. (Suggest removal)

the reason we lost tonight is why we've been losing to good teams for the last 7 yrs.. the defense is weak, no heart, DB never look for the ball, DL can't put pressure on QB, LB out of position and can't tackle. if this happens 1 yr I'm ok but its a trend and its coaching... offense can't run the ball still... been an issue for yrs and not fixed. coach cut what were you thinking at the 3 and start passing the ball. 3rd and one you throw a flare pass behind the 1st down marker instead of running. This is the reason i hated him in the 90's and i still hate him... 7-5 best..I'M SO TIRED OF MAKING EXCUSES FOR THIS COACHING STAFF. we're average at best.

Posted by TNvolunteer on September 2, 2007 at 9:37 a.m. (Suggest removal)

well, alot of these comments are true...the only comment i have for defense is you cant tackle what you cant see...our defenders were flying in head down, and diving towards the ball carries legs?? not hard to break many tackles like that...our offense showed they cant score some points....but the little 4 and 5 yards swing passes arent going to cut it...need to find a receiever that can get you down field...i like the hurry up offense...cal really had no answer for it as we had no answer for their 8 and 9 yards runs.....arm tackling...the only was we taclke in big orange country...they better fix it cause UGA will run wild....go luck on the rest of another mediocre year!

Posted by DSaVol on September 2, 2007 at 9:45 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Wasn't going to post again - but.... ERIC! ARE YOU SERIOUS???? What hurry-up offense??? It's a no-huddle but it is definitely NOT a hurry-up or even up-tempo offense. The play clock is under 5 seconds on just about every play! But that is this staff's idea of creativity!

Posted by 3rdtenn on September 2, 2007 at 9:45 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Thank goodness we do not have to play Appalachian State They would score 40 on us at least

Posted by ChattanoogaNick on September 2, 2007 at 9:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)

In '67, we lost the season opener to U.C.L.A.in Los Angeles thanks largely to a poor defensive performance...We then won 9 in a row (10 game season then), the SEC championship, and were number two in the country going into the Orange Bowl against Oklahoma...the season is NOT lost and now we can lurk beneath the radar for awhile...but....first put the thin white stripe back on the helmets ( did anybody else notice that we've gone back to the thick stripe?)...last year's uniform was the best looking since the last 60s...stop tinkerin' with it! Glad ABC didn't show a lot of our cheerleaders last night..bet they would've looked homely

Posted by BuckFama on September 2, 2007 at 9:49 a.m. (Suggest removal)

We do have an issue with tackling that will have to be fixed if we expect to rebound from this non-conference loss and win the SEC.

The offense was good. Ainge looked sharp and I'm happy that he seems, at this point, to have completely exorcized '95. He's cool and has a solid grasp of what he should do with our offense.

Foster is 'born again". If he can keep his intensity, he'll have some standout games this season. Hardesty is tough and difficult to bring down, but I don't see him having that 'something' that will make him a star. I'm looking forward to having Coker back to augment Foster.

Offensive line play was OK, but the lack of ability to move the ball on 3rd-and-shorts and at the goal line hurt us a couple of times. That will definitely need to improve if we are to regain our 'swagger' and be the juggernaut we were in the '90's. And speared or not, the fumble-causing tackle on Ainge didn't seem to me to be Young's fault. He was occupied with his assigned man and the tackler came from the left outside when our back was protecting the right side.

Our special teams are not a complete mess. That's unfounded. Our punt coverage and kickoff coverage need to be addressed (obviously), but Foster had a good return game. Rogers did a good job. Colquitt ... what can you say about him and his family. Learned from what happened by kicking to Jackson and pinned Cal deep with some good punts out of bounds. If I were a coach, and I'm not, but if I were, I'd do something about the loft of the kickoffs. Kicking from the 30 would seem to require that the kicker either have a cannon leg (Lincoln doesn't) or maybe try to squib the thing down the field and limit the receiving team's ability to handle the kick cleanly. My take, anyhow.

The deficiency that stood out was the anemic defense. Coach Chavis and his staff have their work cut out for them. I don't pretend to have the answer, but it doesn't take a genius to see that we're pretty porous. There are, I'm sure, several OC's in the SEC who are licking their chops after last night.

Overall, last night's outing wasn't a disaster. At this point it looks as if the Golden Bears are 'locked and loaded', no magic as far as schemes, but chock full of great athletes on both sides of the ball. It wouldn't surprise me to see them playing in a significant bowl at season's end. That being said, we put 31 on an excellent team, at their place. It just wasn't enough on a night when our defense was down and our opponent was sharp.

How the team and staff reacts to last night's game,and how they play against what will probably be a good Golden Eagles team, will give us an inkling as to how the SEC race will unfold.

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

Here are a few things that was disturbing to me:
1. We looked like school girls trying to tackle the boys
2. We gave up 45 points
3. When Cal had to move the ball they were able to
4. When Tenn had to move the ball, Cal put pressure on us and stopped us
5. Cal out rushed us by move then 100 yards
6. Were is our speed on D, Cal was faster
7. We are looking at a 7-5 season (Cal, FL, GA) and two (if we are lucky) from (AK, SC, KY, AL) unless our D and Offense steps up.

Posted by jdcvols on September 2, 2007 at 10:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)

andy, tired of your cool-aid. You jumped TNTOUCHDOWN and I about being a pessimist. We called it right except that the receivers played better than we thought. Our inexperience and softness that we witnessed at the O & W game was right on and you guys laughed at us. I'm angry that we lost so don't get the idea that we are happy about being right. This defense is the worst since 1988. The DL is probably the worse in history. I'm worried about ARK ST...they played Texas tight. Foolmer really showed his brain last night...no adjustments.

Posted by jh43 on September 2, 2007 at 10:16 a.m. (Suggest removal)

All the hype about being ready to play was true for one side. California did work on being tough. Tennessee defense was basically a no-show. Our guys looked like left-coast sissys. They played with no guts, and they embarrassed the SEC. I have seen 6 year olds tackle better. Cal is a good team, but we did all we could to make them look absolutely great. The QB had all day to pick out receivers, and if he handed off, he knew we would only waive at the runners.
This was a disgusting excuse for effort. At least we have men and women's basketball to look forward to. There will be more hard licks passed in our BB games than our defense got last night.
I don't know how we can expect this defense to find the heart to play in the SEC if they could not have the heart to play against the PAC-10.
Long season ahead.

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

The thing that disturbed me the most was punting on 4th down at the end of the game. I know, we didn't want Cal to score again, and I know that we had no chance to win at that point, but to me that signaled defeat, that we were beaten, that we were giving up. Maybe we were defeated, but I never want to see my Vols give up. Ever.

Posted by TNvolunteer on September 2, 2007 at 10:45 a.m. (Suggest removal)

the only way to change things about the way the vols play is to start at the top....new head coach with some fire....a better dc with different schemes that the other 11 sec schools have never seen.....and if you dont know by now...we will only be able to throw a 3 yard pass and hope to turn it into something....so tennessee football will be on the back burner until we have a coach with some guts and fire to win.

Posted by jumper51 on September 2, 2007 at 10:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Offense played well on the road, and the defense got outran by the Cal offense. We can fix our problems, but we better not take Southern Miss lightly...just look at Michigan!

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

Another year of Fulmer football. The things that make Fulmer football terrible are fumbles, interceptions, unable run the ball against anyone, defense that cannot stop a pop warner team, team plays with no energy and players with atttiudes.
Tebow is laughing how easy its going to be in two weeks.

Posted by BornaVolDieaVol on September 2, 2007 at 11:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I just couldn't believe that fumble on the first drive... well actually I could, I just didn't want to. These are the plays that have defined UT football the past few years. Remember when Fulmer said we were "8 or 9 plays away" from going 9-3 instead of 5-6??? Well, unfortunately, those Outback Bowl fumble returns for TD's and fumbled backwards passes returned 90 yards for tds right before halftime in Neyland, those plays are still happening!!! Fulmer don't state the obvious this time that we were "two plays away(fumble/td and punt return)" from winning this game. WE NEED TO START MAKING THOSE KIND OF PLAYS ON DEFENSE!!!!!!!

Posted by CalBearAlum on September 2, 2007 at 11:11 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Vols, you have a nice team with some excellent athletes and a damn good QB. The defense needs to not overrun/over commit on plays. Too many mistakes made. Yet, Cal is a fine offensive machine. Who is not to say they wouldn't have scored on the fumble return or punt return. That is how potent their offense is. They should have gotten 52 if not for the fumble at the 1-yard line.

I have followed Cal Football for years. Since Tedford arrived, we have moved up in the football world. Last year at Neyland Stadium, Cal players were overwhelmed and intimidated by your crowd. It was the first time Cal had played a big-time program outside of the PAC-10 on the road. It was also QB Nate Longshore's first game against a Division 1 football program. The SEC is always the best football conference. Cal was not as bad as they looked in that game. That is why all this talk about redemption came from. Cal was a better football team at the end of the year than Tennessee was.

They played USC tough down in L.A. They just didn't have enough talent. Tedford does so much with less. Cal cannot compete with USC, UCLA, and Oregon (Nike money and free gear) in getting the top rated athletes. Yet Tedord has a eye for talent and guys who have heart. (No one wanted DeSean Jackson because they said he was too small) Tedford is an excellent offensive mind. The pros are always trying to get him until Cal made the committment to get an upgraded stadium and practice facilities to compete nationally for the championship. Tedford has turned a team who were in the lower bottom of the PAC-10 into a national powerhouse.

Tennessee, you can get back in the national picture with a win over Florida and winning out. Cal did the same last year after the Tennessee beatdown (8-straight wins) until a late season loss to USC and still shared the PAC-10 title but lost out in the head to head matchup.

Posted by MillisaAnn on September 2, 2007 at 11:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Hated that we lost and I agree that the defense needs to get it together and do it in a hurry. Mitchell has my prayers.

Posted by txsvol on September 2, 2007 at 11:39 a.m. (Suggest removal)

There is no shame in having been beaten by the Cal Bears, who were clearly superior to us last night. CalBears40, NorCal, etc., have a great team to root for. Herbstreit pointed out that a back should have lined up to Ainge's left to protect his blind side, so there was some comment on the fumble/spearing. Eric Young was blocking the man directly in front of him--had he have tried to cut the LB who blitzed at the last minute? Yes, but he probably isn't quick enough, and his man would have been Parker's, who was also blocking directly in front of him. Credit whoever called the blitz package for Cal. Now, why didn't Colquitt kick the ball out of bounds 40 yards down the field every punt? In spite of these two touchdowns, our biggest problem was on defense, where our guys just couldn't stop the Bears. I think that we will regroup next week, and we can still have a good year, say 9-3, 9-4 if you count the bowl. Go Vols!

Posted by AllVol on September 2, 2007 at 11:40 a.m. (Suggest removal)

DSaVol, it hurts me to say it, but you are exactly right. Everything you said rings absolutely true. And I like Phil. I think the modern game has passed him by. I haven's given up on this season. Erik was fantastic. But he or the coaches NEVER stretched the field one time. Even the f------ announcers noted that.. Just like last year/s, the flippin' announcers can call a better game than Phil. It seems that every coach in the conference creates ways to win except Phil. He reminds me of Johnny because he just refuses to make any real changes in his coaching philosophy. I have never seen a defense look more out-everythinged than ours last night. They looked like scared puppies, and THAT comes straight from the coaches. God, I wish we could get Spurrier.

Posted by Calbears40 on September 2, 2007 at 11:41 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Calbearalum,
If by no one wanted desean jackson then you mean everyone wanted him i understand what your saying. He was a 5 star recruit, third rated wideout in the country and usc was pissed they missed out on him.

Posted by AllVol on September 2, 2007 at 11:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)

And once again, the Cal fans I have seen on here must be some of the nicest (for lack of a better word at the moment) people in America. Congrats on a big win Bears.

Posted by vol43 on September 2, 2007 at 11:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Gosh CRVol, I thought you'd be headed back to Alabama today.

Posted by jandjhome on September 2, 2007 at 11:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Thanks DSaVol,well written.

Posted by AllVol on September 2, 2007 at 11:49 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm going to tell you what guys, in a moment of reflection here, we Vol fans are well-known for our pride (good) and trash talk (bad). We haven't backed up the latter in quite awhile. Everything is in place to be easily a top flight program--except the coaching staff. And the words I loathe to say: We may be in for a long season--BUT, i reiterate, I certainly am not throwing in any towels and neither will our guys. Lots of football to be played. I am so proud of Erik, and I think our wr's will develop very, very quickly to a high level of play. It's sadly funny that in '05 our defense kept us in many games and we couldn't pick up a damned first down. Now the offense looks like it can score and like DSaVol, said, the defense couldn't tackle the cheerleaders. And, finally, I would like to hear from Phil, myself.

Posted by hashmark on September 2, 2007 at noon (Suggest removal)

I just finished watching the Phil Foolmer Show. Somebody send Phil and his sidekick an email and tell them that UT lost. From his commentary I don't think he is aware.

Posted by mdvol on September 2, 2007 at 12:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)

So disappointed. Particularly with the defense. You guys heard it from me for two weeks. You know the line....we're going to freakin' kill Cal. Didn't happen. My bad. Glad I don't bet.

Amazing how emotion plays such a role in the college game. (See Appy State) The early fumble for a TD was just the spark Cal needed for confidence. Our offense hung tough only to have Jackson take it the distance. Our offense still tried to fight but geez...where is the defense?

I certainly don't have the answers but there is a lot of football ahead. Liked a lot of what I saw on offense, couldn't believe the defense.

I think Ainge's finger primarily kept us from throwing deep. His longest pass of the night was his last and you could see it wobble and float. Colquitt on kickoffs sure would have helped.

No doubt, if the defense doesn't improve 0-3 is as likely as 1-2 but I'm hopeful the offense keeps us alive.

Posted by betz on September 2, 2007 at 12:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I thought Brent Mushberger HAD retired. He was annoying.

Posted by CalBearAlum on September 2, 2007 at 12:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)

TouchdownTN,

I posted this for you on the report card blog and decided to put it here since this blog has more posts and you are here posting as well.

The SEC is an awesome conference. I always watch their games just for a comparison. I knew that Florida was going to beat Ohio State last year. If any conference is overated, it is the Big Ten. They have good teams at the top but the middle and bottom are mediocre and the top two or three get fat off of them.

I loved how Cal wanted to play an SEC team starting out with Tennessee. It was a start for them in their attempt to get big time. That game last year taught them a lot. I watched this them score 40 points or more in 8 straight games. Tedford is one of the top offensive minds in football,if not the best. I am not sure where they would finish in the SEC, probably 3rd or 4th just because they are so physical in that conference. Plus, Cal had a better overall team last year than this year.

Cal's defense needs more athletes. They have maybe 5 or 6. They stacked the line to prevent the run inside. That is why Tennessee had so much success to the outside with runs and passes.

Offensively, Cal can play with anybody. They won't beat USC unless they get better defensively. They do have a chance since the game is played in Berkeley.

Tennessee has a relatively light schedule as far as the SEC goes. They don't play LSU. If they get past Florida, they do have a chance to play in the SEC title game. I don't think they will get past LSU, but they have a chance at a BCS bowl game if LSU is in the title game. Tennessee has size on both sides of the ball. Their defense outside of the poor tackling is not that bad. They have the size and speed. It could be the Tarzan/Jane thing. Vol fans would know better than me. Cal has got an innovative play caller who creates mismatches. Cal will be the best offense that Tennessee plays all year. Your team is not out of it.

P.S. To CalBear40. I know you got my back, but yes, DeSean Jackson was a top recruit, but he wanted to go to USC being from Southern California. USC wanted the big guy from New Jersey (can't remember his name) and were already stacked with talent at that position.

Posted by whistlinwingman on September 2, 2007 at 12:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Let me start out by saying I was impressed with the big orange's offense and play of the recievers. With that being said the defense flat stunk. Cal's offense looked good because of the mediocre defense on the field (not taking nothing from a good cal team). The defense was NOT physically or mentally ready to play. Who is at fault there?

And since espn/abc and every analyst in the country wants to compare the pac-10 to the sec, I think it is important to point out that Cal is the 2nd best team in the pac-10, and from opening week observations, Tennessee is about the 5th or 6th best team in the SEC. That is hard for me to admit being a die hard UT fan, but lets face it folks, the younger/creative generation of coaches in college football are becoming more and more successful.

Posted by Calbears40 on September 2, 2007 at 1:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Calbearalum,
Yes i dont have a problem with you, what i was stating is your statement about jackson is not correct. Aside from being recruited by USC, you also had the big boys tennessee, florida state, florida, lsu, oklahoma etc. USC thought that they had him wrapped up, and at the last minute he decided on Cal. If you talk to USC fans they are still mad to this day. You can look at http://displacedtrojan.blogspot.com/2... This is an interview with jackson and the usc coaches regarding the matter. Make no mistake, everyone wanted him, and it really was an early coup that Tedford was able to land him.

Posted by 2000man on September 2, 2007 at 1:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Chavis and Fulmer have become stale as a week old loaf of bread. No pressure at all on the QB, our defense looked like swiss cheese and our special teams continue to look like the keystone cops. Fulmer should give back the other million dollars on his contract. Way to go coaches!

Posted by virginiaandlaloma on September 2, 2007 at 1:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Tennessee-

You have a tough, gutsy, emotionally resilient group of players, and anyone in the nation would be proud to call them their own. You are so fortunate, and so spoiled! You expect too much of your kids.

In the California Golden Bears, you played a football team that is going to make more than a few teams look dazed and confused this year; we can score points on anyone.

And at the end of the year, after California has put up more points per game than a Pat Summitt basketball team, you will look back on this game and realize that your boys did pretty good last night.

You were simply beaten by a better team.

Speaking of Pat Summitt and girls sports, can we please stop hearing all the nonsense about the Pac-10 not playing physical football?

You are heavy weight fighters of the highest caliber, and we stood toe to toe with you, answered your gutsy third-quarter resolve, and then won going away.

We're good, but not good enough to win a national championship at this point; championships are won by teams that play defense as well as we play offense, and we just plain don't have that as yet.

But maybe by next week???

We have always respected your program, and have always respected the SEC. Tennessee is a worthy opponent, always.

Beat Florida.

Posted by andy112382 on September 2, 2007 at 1:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)

jdcvols, tired of my kool-aid? Dude, you don't get it, I am a die-hard Tennessee fan. This is a site for Tennessee fans. I tend to find the silver lining in things rather than search for the dark cloud within the silver lining, and that just is not going to change because life is SO much better when you stay positive, and I really do think there was plenty to be positive about on how we played. Yes, the defense needs to really tighten things up and it hurt to see us lose, but we have not lost a conference game yet so that is still 100% up for grabs and we now know where we stand and what needs fixing and they will get out there and fix this stuff. The offense looked exactly how I thought it would being run by a senior QB and we very well can beat the gators and dawgs, especially with the gators playing very low tier teams, they do not know nearly as much about their team as we do about ours, as I see it we are one step ahead of them in that department. It was one game and we fought hard and didn't give up, we have stuff to work on and we can fix it, we had a receiver avergae the most per reception in the game (more than DeSean Jackson or Hawkins averaged per catch!) and our RB average 6+ yards a carry, not bad at all. Chavis tends to know how to work out the kinks on defense. We just met a very well skilled team and a very motivated team and once again it WAS an opener, and if my memory serves me correct, openers aren't always the prettiest played games of the season, in fact that usually are never the prettiest games, but I thought we played much better than we have in a long time for an opener. If you are going to lose a game, as far as the polls and such are concerned lose early because you can recover as the year goes on, look at Florida last season losing to auburn GO VOLS!!!

Posted by Plasticman on September 2, 2007 at 2:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Cal fans seem to be very knowledgeable and have alot of class. I wish they would beat the crap out of USC since I am so sick of hearing about them the past 6 years. I think Cal would be the 2nd best team in the SEC this year (behind LSU). I think most SEC teams (other than LSU) will struggle on defense due to the loss of so many players. The VOls still have a shot at winning the East. THe next 2 weeks will help us know if that is going to happen or not so let's not jump ship yet! I truly believe that we will not face a more high powered offense than Cal. Eric Berry not only needs to start, he needs to teach the other DB's and LB's how to tackle.

Posted by UT_VOLS_007 on September 2, 2007 at 2:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I take pride in being the biggest vols fan in my high school and im am ashamed of the defense.I thought the offense did good. But I hate how ESPN and ABC hate us cant wait to play on CBS.And why did les miles have to open his fat mouth about the pac-10 and leave us out to dry.

Posted by 3rdtenn on September 2, 2007 at 2:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Where our guys playing blindfold on defense. The runner could be standing next to them and they looked like they where playing pin the tail on the donkey with no idea where the donkey was.

Posted by 1BearBacker on September 2, 2007 at 2:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)

No one has complained that Tedford ordered his QB to take a knee, and end the game when Cal could have piled on additional unnecessary points. He gave up something. Scoring 52 points rather than 45 would get Cal more votes cast by Eastern and Central time zone voters who never watch West Coast games, and find nothing to read about them in their Sunday papers, and thus are ignorant about West Coast games. All they are interested is in the winner's score, and the higher the better. Look at Saturday's mismatches. They were not games. When the outcome is not in doubt, it is not a game, but an exhibition.

Cal should have beat Tennessee last year, and might have had one Cal player given up 21 points, single-handily. Yesterday, he played flawlessly. That player, a freshman, and the QB were then playing their first Division 1 college football game.

Tennessee fans may not be aware of the NYC-dominated media predujice against everything on the West Coast, but it exists. West coast athletes QB Tennessee, and Nebraska to name only two, but the ignorant media would lead one to think that their QBs are home-grown Tenneseeans and Nebraskans. (Tom Brady, the patriot's qb and former Michigan QB, grew up and played high school football only 15 miles from Cal's campus; Miami's last Heisman winner did the same only 6 miles away.) Isn't it false and misleading to pretend college football teams are representative of their state?

Let's change the rules, and require all members of college teams to be residents of state in which their college is located for a minimum of 5 years before playing on the team, and you know what would happen! California, with 36 million residents, and four major university teams to share the best players among themselves would overwhelm the rest of the USA. You would not be talking about SEC vs. PAC-10 Superiority and dominance would be California's.

By the way, when did someone score 31 or more points against Tennessee before half-time?

1Bearbacker

Posted by VOLFANSTKGA on September 2, 2007 at 2:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Let's start from the beginning because this is personal and having read many comments by those such as CRVOL, eVOLution (whatever) and your many cohorts - let me say my peace....I've seriously watched the VOLS for 16 years and I was dedicated... but what does that really say....I've known no other coach but Fulmer, I've known no other assistants but Chavis & Cutcliffe, and I've personally met Randy Sanders. I stuck around for the good stuff and I stomached most of the bad. Now I don't have the pleasure of living in Tennessee, so I don't have fellow fans to whine and moan with. I've lived 12 of those 16 years in KY in constant state of agony waiting for the day when Kentucky remembers what the hell they did in 198?, now I live in southwest Georgia and 99% of my aquaintances graduated from UGA with a major in hating Tennessee. Now I know Chavis will come around, Culcliffe will bring it as always, and Fulmer will take the credit as always.....but I'm done, it's over, I'm moving on and aside from 1995-1998 - I want those other 12 or 13 seasons back again. Sorry but... SEE YA!!!

Posted by jawbreaker on September 2, 2007 at 2:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Since when did Musberger get on a first-name basis with DeSean and Nate? He was so excited at their success that I thought his pants were wet.

Posted by usnavyvolfaninva on September 2, 2007 at 2:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)

outclassed, outrun, face it, we got beat by a much better team...

Seriously, some of you guys are harsh. I don't think anyone expected this team to contend for a national title, or even the SEC...

Before the season began, I thought we'd win 8 games, and I still stand by my prediction: with losses to UF, ALA, and UGA, the Vols will beat the rest, although I only see one, maybe two blowout wins; McFadden could run Arkansas to victory at Neyland, but I don't think so.

This is a talented team, but if you think this was ever a championship caliber team, then please share with me whatever you're smoking!

Posted by Plasticman on September 2, 2007 at 2:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

VOLFANSTKGA, Good riddence,and don't let the door hit you on the way out!!! You are a typical fair weathered fan. I have been watching the Vols for 40 years and have sat theough many bad seasons in the 70's and 80's only to have the pleasure of watching us win a National Championship in 1998. College teams go in cycles (ask USC, Nebraska, Ohio St., LSU, Ala., Oklahoma, and yes Michigan). I have invested tens of thousands of dollars for season tickets, bowl games etc... and I will be there next Sat. to cheer as loud as I can. Yes, that is a TRUE Vol fan, not some band waggon "I love you when you're winning" fan. Am I satisfied with not having won an SEC C