Wade Payne/Special to the News Sentinel

Quarterback Jonathan Crompton throws during practice Monday at Haslam Field. The Tennessee starting quarterback has shown steady improvement in running the team since camp opened earlier this month.

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Tennessee will hold its last major scrimmage of preseason camp this afternoon in Neyland Stadium. The Vols have seen major improvement among reserves at defensive tackle and on the offensive line. Jonathan Crompton has continued to get better as fall camp progresses.

But here are Five Big Things the Vols are looking for Thursday as UCLA creeps up on the horizon:

1. Wrap It Up: UT's defense and its linebackers in particular missed too many tackles in Saturday's scrimmage. Given what happened in the Cal game a year ago, the Vols are looking for major improvement right now. A little extra fundamental work this week should give UT a nudge in the right direction.

2. Keep It Going: Jonathan Crompton had his best scrimmage Saturday, completing 67 percent of his passes. He was able to move the chains and find the end zone - and he did it without turning the ball over. Another strong performance today could set the stage for a great opener at UCLA.

3. Will Someone Step Forward? One of the most heated position battles this fall has yet to produce a starter. Neither Adam Myers-White and Nevin McKenzie have distinguished himself at strongside linebacker. With fewer than two weeks remaining until the season-opener, one of the two needs to put a vise grip on one of the most important positions on UT's defense.

4. Watch Warren: After learning that tight end Brandon Warren will be eligible for the fall, expect coaches to take an extended look at packages involving the sophomore transfer from Florida State. Warren didn't take a lot of snaps Saturday, so today will be a key scrimmage. Either way, Warren should contribute heavily this fall, but a good day today will accelerate that process.

5. More Montario: Tailback Arian Foster proved he's ready to play with just three carries and two catches on Saturday. Sophomore Lennon Creer gained 70 yards on nine carries, while true freshman Tauren Poole has earned some carries this fall with his tough running in spring practice and fall camp. Junior Montario Hardesty, while apparently healthy, has been so-so during scrimmages this fall. A good day from Hardesty, who can be a major impact player for the Vols, could help build his confidence heading into the fall.

© 2008, Knoxville News Sentinel Co.