Posted by mdvol on January 1, 2008 at 9:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Defense deserves an A as a unit. Stopping the 4th and 2 play qualifies for extra credit. Mayo, Berry and Wardlow all get helmet stickers in my book. Agree with the grades for the offense because the game should have never been that close.

Posted by bigtimevol on January 1, 2008 at 9:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Way to go Vols. Very positive momentum to next year.

Posted by bshell12 on January 1, 2008 at 9:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Ainge deserves a C because a C=average and that is what type of quarterback he is Average.

Posted by beachvol on January 1, 2008 at 9:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I think this is a pretty fair analysis. The only one I would tweak would be a B- for quarterback. The entire offense did nothing the entire 3rd quarter, and Ainge was a big part of that. I do give him credit for a lot of yards overall, and one beautiful TD into the end zone. Hence, the B-

Posted by GerryOP on January 1, 2008 at 9:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Sounds about right to me!

Posted by bmaples on January 1, 2008 at 9:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Pretty accurate reads on the grades, I think. I'd like to see the Coaching category split into two categories: Coaching-Preparation and Coaching-Gametime. I thought the preparation overall was very good; the team looked focused and ready to play. The gametime coaching, OTOH, was strange to damaging. The trick play was ridiculous, the lack of adjustments were obvious, and apparently the down-and-distance part of the scoreboard was not visible from the sideline, since we called short-distance running plays when it was 3rd-and-18.

Being "glad to get the win" and ignoring some of these issues is like being glad to pass a course and ignoring your inability to do well on tests. At some point, it's going to catch up with you. Here's hoping that some of this gets fixed before next year, even while everyone (team, coaches, fans) celebrate the win and the season.

Posted by Ironcity on January 1, 2008 at 9:47 p.m. (Suggest removal)

bshell I agree that Ainge is average but he had a heck of a game today. With a little help from his RB's and receivers he really has a great game.

Posted by dburgin0114 on January 1, 2008 at 9:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Honest and very fair

Posted by DennisVols on January 1, 2008 at 10:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)

This season started off with an F grade following the Florida game.
Other than the dreadful Bama game the rest of the season showed improvement.
This was a crazy season for everyone.
From the 9/8/07 ranking 9 of those teams did not finish in the top 25, five #2 teams were beaten by unranked teams, only 6 of that top 25 finished up better in the polls and UT was one of those 6.
You can not discredit any win by any team in this season. Appy St beat a Michigan team in the Big House to start the season and today Mich. beat Florida (much worse than the score would show)
Improvements made were good and more need to come.

Posted by Borange56 on January 1, 2008 at 10:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Great game always nice to win against the bigtin.

Posted by Rebelsfball2008 on January 1, 2008 at 10:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)

good game..im impressed with the win and this was alot bigger than the score showed..this showed that they can play even though adversity ensued...what with coaches leaving...(supposedly)..and players out..i think it was a great moral boost at worst for tennessee....ohh and one more thing...Trooper Taylor isnt gone yet...

Posted by jobrando on January 1, 2008 at 10:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Sounds fair...Hope we can recruit a Berry in the form of a running back and kicker that can get it in the end zone

Posted by FWBVol on January 1, 2008 at 10:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

bshell12, and how many games have you played or coached at quarterback in the SEC? Ainge had at least five or six passes dropped and still managed to complete 25.

I think the so-called pregame distractions were overrated. I'm glad Phillip Fulmer stayed the course in getting the team ready to play.

Now it's time for CPF to hire new coaches like heck, recruit like heck and get ready for another big run next year.

Posted by eb502us on January 1, 2008 at 10:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

First time I've agreed with grades all season though I think coaching might merit a slightly lower grade. Good riddance to Cutcliffe!!!!

Posted by surlyguy on January 1, 2008 at 10:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)

good point about Vols are lucky that Wisconsin didn't try to run more.

Appeared both coaches made offensive decisions that helped other team, Vols lucky Wisconsin coaches decisions cost more than Vols decisions. For example, why on earth does Wisconsin roll out quarterback on fourth down attempt late in game?... their running back was killing us...and why on earth take out a hot Ainge to run G-gun in red zone? G-gun shows some promise, but Ainge and the passing game were killing Badgers.

Adams was right on with humorous column about Eric Berry's formidable hits. Great to see a Vol punish the other team.

The win is great.

Short of Pete Carroll who is demonstrating demonstrably superior coaching? The smartest coach in college with a Heisman quarterback and Percy Harvin just got beat by an unranked Michigan team in a game that Michigan played well enough to put out of reach. Maybe the spread isn't the cure for all ills after all...

Posted by andy112382 on January 1, 2008 at 10:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)

bshell12, if an 'average' QB can end up 3rd all-time at Tennessee passing, only behind Manning and Casey Clausen, I don't know what to tell you! Good to set the bar high, but dang man, be realistic!! Atleast give the man a B/B+! Doesn't that sound just a tad more fair???

Anywho, enough with that nonsense, good season, very young team as I said to start the season, got better as the season went on, ended on a high note and has a very bright future!

GO VOLS!!!

Posted by TNPilgrim on January 1, 2008 at 10:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Grades are about right - not a great season, but a good season and at least they contended for the conference championship (which they should do every year). Now can Fulmer find an offensive coordinator that knows hash marks from sidelines? He'd better, or next year won't be near as much fun.

Posted by IPOrange on January 1, 2008 at 10:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Good assessment. Special teams need help fast.

I agree with bmaples about the coaching - prep was fine, but game day performance was lacking.

Half time: GA 24, HI 3. Warriors, welcome to the SEC.

Posted by DennisVols on January 1, 2008 at 11:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)

For the season my thoughts:

http://www.sportingnews.com/blog/Denn...

Posted by BigVolinCarolina on January 1, 2008 at 11:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Let's forget about a finding an Offensive Coordinator because, realistically, Coach Fulmer ultimately calls the shots--nearly always has & always will.

Instead, let's pour our money into a SPECIAL TEAMS coach. We can't continue to give up long kickoff returns, poor punt coverage & consistently not kickoff into the other teams' end zone.

Posted by nnease15 on January 2, 2008 at 12:06 a.m. (Suggest removal)

What has happened to Daniel Lincoln? He is really struggling.

Posted by chucker6 on January 2, 2008 at 12:37 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Maybe we can get Brian Billick as Offensive Coordinator and see if he can recover some of his Minnesota Vikings magic. No gripes with the grades, coming back after a horrific start to the season showed good character if nothing else. Good ending to a strange season. If Cut was responsible for those strange calls that stopped two drives cold in the red zone, then maybe losing him isn't so bad. Defense was excellent. Let's hope this positive ending is a plus for recruitment.

Posted by newtonrail on January 2, 2008 at 1 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Erik Ainge is what got Tennessee most of their wins the last 2years, and today especially. Average? Nuts. EB, keep taking your shots at Cut today because the party's over.

Posted by debaser11 on January 2, 2008 at 2:37 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Which game was Mr. Hooker watching?
Offensive coaches: F-
Why? Total yards in the 3rd quarter: 11, idiotic red zone play calling and only 21 points total - NONE in the 2nd half. (Should have scored 35, maybe 38 points!) Thank goodness Wisconsin had an equally bad game plan.

Posted by andy112382 on January 2, 2008 at 2:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Billick as OC? Not the way the Ravens were on offense, that is what got him fired. Can't blame you for thinking that, though, it crossed my mind briefly.

Posted by VOLnATL on January 2, 2008 at 5:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Point on assessment!

Posted by oldorange on January 2, 2008 at 5:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Great asessment. I've enjoyed reading your columns this year.......GO VOLS

Posted by why36knot on January 2, 2008 at 6:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Here are more grades......
KNS writers.... Grammar B
Spelling A
Content D
Interest F
Predictions F
Relaibility F

Posted by why36knot on January 2, 2008 at 6:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Reliability F

Posted by ORANGEASIAN on January 2, 2008 at 7:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Give yourself a C+ for your average reporting.

Posted by eb502us on January 2, 2008 at 7:26 a.m. (Suggest removal)

newtonrail, I see your football expertise is in line with your basketball expertise, which is severely lacking. Buzz is gone and now Cutcliffe as well. Change can often be for the better, agreed? I like Cutcliffe personally (though I despised Buzz)but the only thing he brought to the table was discipline. His OC skills are lacking, and though I'll give him his due with Ainge, I still believe Ainge's mechanics (footwork) are horrible. He rarely steps into a throw. While I wish Cutcliffe success at Duke, I'm very glad he's gone.

Posted by lnbadger320 on January 2, 2008 at 7:39 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Cut deserves a D. another crappy game called by him. see ya Cut,don't come back.

Posted by pdhuff on January 2, 2008 at 8:03 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Agreed-would give Ainge a B, though.Some of his passes somehow went by defenders by inches into the receivers grasp.

Game highlighted how much better back Hardesty is than Foster. Foster wants to and will run East and West. Maybe Hardesty will be healthy next fall.

2nd half was usual blaise play-calling and no points. "Sit down and hang-on". Took Beckum out of game which was key.

How Donavon survived, I'll never know! Wicked licks. Incredible T-O-P 32:30 Wis - 27:30 Vols. No wonder they almost lead the nation. Colquitt return tackle saved the game.

Kudoes to Phil for the win. Only blip on the doldrum screen now will be the OC hire and a little recruiting. They have stayed the course.

Posted by jobrando on January 2, 2008 at 8:06 a.m. (Suggest removal)

If the trick plays had worked then GENIUS but now idiots. I'm glad they came off pounding the rock and tried some tricks. Fulmer may have some hope yet.

Posted by pdhuff on January 2, 2008 at 8:15 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Overrall season C++ -have tried but can't erase Bama performance (lack therof) and inability to hold leads against lesser opponents (Vandy-SC-Ky). Almost forgotten Fla totally unprepared debacle-maybe coming to expect it. Where will we finish, 13th?

Posted by milesy20 on January 2, 2008 at 8:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Would give the Offense a C-. The CITADEL put up 31 points against Wisconsin in Wisconsin in a game that they should have won.

Having our Offense come out after halftime (adjustments anyone?) and piddle down their legs was embarrassing, but that is kinda what a lot of us have come to expect as VOL fans - when we do get a lead we hang on and hope the other team doesn't have what it takes to rally and win. UT tried to give the game away. Wisconsin just couldn't muster the ability to take it.

At least we will have a marginally better taste in our collective mouths this off-season.

Posted by MemphVol on January 2, 2008 at 8:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I thought that the coaching, based solely on the bone-headed gimmicks attempted, should have graded somewhere around C- or D+. I'm not one of those fans expecting the Vols to win every game by 50. I just wish for them to be as efficient as possible. And due solely to horrendous offensive play-calling, the team was not allowed to be.

Attn: Fulmer, BE YOURSELF!!!! You are not Spurrier, Rodriquez, etc. Do what you do, not what your critics want you to do. You did not win a NC with trickery, gimmicks or deception. You won because you coach good, sound, power football. I feel like the Vols left at least 21pts out there somewhere on the field in Tampa. Carroll does not teach gimmmicks at USC, Tressel doesn't do it at Ohio St., ditto Richt at Ga. Leave the spread option/zone read to the pretenders. The real contenders in college football don't need it.

Posted by BigVolinCarolina on January 2, 2008 at 8:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I couldn't agree more MemphVol. We don't need trickery in order to score--we just don't need to be predictable offensively (which is part of our problem).

Nonetheless, we found a way to win & that's all that matters.

Posted by sandboxpup on January 2, 2008 at 8:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I'd love for Hook to grade his own radio show. How many points could be deducted for giggling like a 12 year old girl?

More interesting, maybe, would be a grade for how many times he's broken a "story", only to have it downgraded or retracted. Journalism at its finest, here.

Posted by 1974Vol on January 2, 2008 at 8:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Thought Ainge deserved a B+ to A-. 365 and 2 TDs, 0 Ints deserves more than a B. He throws for 2 more TD's and Vols win easily except for wacky play calling in the Orange Zone (trick play & "let's pretend we're a spread option attack") I posted we would win if Ainge and Foster played well and we didn't turn the ball over. I expected Defense to play well and take the TE and QB away from Badgers. Ainge did, Foster didn't, didn't turn it over and defense did. Would not have been close except for poor play calling in Orange Zone. Agree with MemphVol, just play GOOD Tennessee football and the outcome will take care of itself.

Posted by mparker on January 2, 2008 at 8:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)

oky, I keep waiting for all these people who told me I was an idiot: tdtn, umbbbbbbbbb...or mubabbbb or whativer (the dude who bet against the vols)....where the hell are you guys???

it was really simple: UW was not a very good team, they played in a weak conference and struggled against the citadel and unlv.

UW had the talent, but their coaches were too stupid to realize they could run the ball every paly and kill us.

Coulda easily been a blowout without the rz dumba$$ play calling. I'm sitting there just shding my head: you drive all the way down the field, then change from your sstrenth to the unknown.

If Cutcliffe was calling it, he must have been doing it for future Duke recruits.

Posted by dgb63 on January 2, 2008 at 9:01 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I agree with you MemphVol. I'm thinking it is time to get to Tenn football and forget this trick stuff. The G-Gun is a nice change of pace at times but I think we have to do what we are built to do best. To run the G-Gun set 3 times in a row when it didn't work the 1st or 2nd time was just bad play calling. It really doesn't make sense to me. We are playing LSU for the SEC Champ and we try it it works everytime and we stop doing it. We are in a bowl we try it it doesn't work so het we keep doing it.. What is that???? Get us an OC that will get is to playing Tenn football.!!!!

Posted by VolnDothan on January 2, 2008 at 9:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)

The grades are right on the money...EXCEPT "Coaching" which I would have given a D. Cutcliffe almost blew this game playing his version of razzle-dazzle which appeared half-baked and half-heartedly executed. It looked like a conservative politician trying to dance...trickery isn't his forte'.

His decision to pull Ainge to play the "G-Gun" inside the red zone was unbelievable.

Posted by Volker on January 2, 2008 at 9:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Eric Berry is so dadgum good.
G. Jones ran over a Wisc. defender to score...just flat out ran him over. The two penalties against our receivers were B.S. The o-line deserved an A. Mayo is a beast an average game from him is an A+, this was no exception.
I can't believe that J.B. had seven catches with a broken wrist!

Posted by leedsvol2007 on January 2, 2008 at 9:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I think you have to tip your cap to Dan Brooks and Johnny Chavis for taking an inexperienced defense with early deficits in the defensive line and secondary that was inept against quality opponents to the level they played at against LSU and Wisconsin.

Dan Williams came on to be a fine player. Mapu finally regained his sophomore form, and the absent Demonte Bolden became a force down the stretch.

Brent Vinson went from a receiver trying to cover someone to a fine player in the span of six games. And Eric Berry has become a star.

As a result of their improvement the linebackers Jerod Mayo in particular were able to get into position to make tackles and be spectacular.

Hats off to the defensive coaches and players for hanging in there and becoming a force.

It augers well for next season.

GoVols!

Posted by Sheepscape on January 2, 2008 at 9:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I don't think we are missing much with Cut leaving. Boneheaded decisions cost us at least ten points. I really hope Fulmer makes the best of these hires or this might be the last bowl victory for a while.

Posted by Basketball_Jones on January 2, 2008 at 9:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I give the coaching a D. The truth is the trick plays almost cost us the game. Had the Wusc coach not had a brain fart and ran the ball on 4 and 2 instead of throwing this would have been a different outcome. I am happy UT got the win but it wasn't pretty.

Now lets discuss what a trick play is...A trick play is something that is ran out of a normal formation that throws the defense off guard, not a play where a bunch of linemen huddle up real close and the QB places the ball between the RB's legs, thats a flag football play.

If we are going to use the G-Gun then give the guy the option to throw, otherwise line him up in the backfield and hand it off.

Glad football season is over, bring on hoops!

Posted by orangebloodgmc on January 2, 2008 at 10:02 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Still gotta get an OC and wrap up the recruiting. Then there's spring practice. Then comes the some-knucklehead-getting-in-trouble season. Then the magazines come out in June. Then they report for pre-season. Its always football time in Tennessee!

Posted by TommyJack on January 2, 2008 at 10:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)

1. Special teams must be addressed.
2. Let's get back to a 2 back offense
and relearn the RUNNING game.
3. The Spread O. will run its course.
Games will always be won in the
trenches.
4. Mparker: To call the Big 10 a weak
league is silly. Ask Suburban Meyer.

5. Except for the disciple he brought,
Coach Cut will not be missed.

Posted by DenverVol on January 2, 2008 at 10:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Seems to me Coach Cut was trying to impress some of his new boosters with his play calling. I have to admit I'm sad to see him go, but I'm happy he's taking that fumblerooski play with him. I agree with you heels, we need to throw out of G-Gun or it's completely useless.

Hooker, you must have been hungover when you wrote this. There's much more sting in your wording than usual and I finally agree with your grading.

I definitely liked seeing the hard hitting, punch 'em in the face defense.

Already looking forward to all the offseason developments (new OC, new QB etc) and next season.

Posted by jimr07 on January 2, 2008 at 10:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)

bshell12 if ainge is so bad, why are all the commentators saying he is a very strong NFL prospect. does it have anything to do with the fact they know what they are talking about and you don't. For all the naysayers, what would make you happy? 14 wins every year?

Posted by DadwasaVol on January 2, 2008 at 10:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Please recruit some D-line. Everywhere looks solid.

Posted by kevinlimbo on January 2, 2008 at 10:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)

C+ coaching? Prime example of grade inflation.

Posted by IPOrange on January 2, 2008 at 10:37 a.m. (Suggest removal)

What orangebloodgmc said. It's always football time in TN!

heels_fan_23, I saw that same type of trick play in an earlier bowl game (maybe Auburn/Clemson, but I'm not sure), and it worked better for them. I don't think they tried that "between-the-legs" bit, though. You're right - that was reminiscent of flag football.

I don't fault them for trying some new looks, but the timing wasn't right for the most part. I liked it near the endzone. But when it doesn't work, why try it three times in a row? Jones needs to be a pass threat for that to be effective.

Posted by IPOrange on January 2, 2008 at 10:39 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Suburban Meyer - funny!

Posted by injunvol on January 2, 2008 at 10:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)

anything less than a SEC CHAMPIONSHIP is ( F)ailer but glad for the bowl win

Posted by DennisVols on January 2, 2008 at 11:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Maybe the coaching grade should be broken down by position.
Head Coach: (B) Fulmer did a good job of holding the team together during the month with all the distractions. Team was focused coming into this game after many questioned if they could be.
Defensive Coach: (A) Chavis has had to patch this defense all year. Even before the season started key injuries required moving players around, many of who had not played or where freshmen. After the SECCG game more players were lost and Chavis again had to make adjustments with players. They held a good Badgers offense to just a field goal in the 2nd half and a seldom used player steps up to make a key interception to seal the win.
Offensive Coach: (C-) During the first half UT moved the ball well and put up a respectable 21 points. While many of us think UT is too conservative there is a fine line between opening it up and just stupid play calling. In the 2nd half Ainge moves the team down the field for a good scoring opportunity and again the decision to attempt the "G" gun 3 straight times with no threat of a pass from it cost UT the chance at a needed TD. It seemed that coach Cut's thoughts were not totally focused on UT in his decision making.
Special Teams Coach: (D-) UT continues to struggle on special teams. A 60 yd return with a 15 yd penelty, blocked fieldgoal, poor blocking for returns. And area UT has struggled in for too long.
Offensive Line Coach: (B-) Great blocking for Ainge all year continued but the running game is still well below what it should be. While the line is not the only reason the rushing game is suffering it is part of the problem.
Densive Line Coach: (C) They have improved since the begining of the year but still allow too many rushing yards.
Recivers Coach: (B) Taylor made good receivers from inexperienced recievers. The loss of L. Tayor for this game was thought to be big but Trooper got others to step up. If the passes that were dropped had been caught this would have been a A grade.
Running Backs Coach: (D) Can't just blame the line for this lack of performance. Where has the running game gone? A combination of poor play calling, not opening up the holes, and running backs that seem to be one step slow all has affected this part of UT's offense.
Defensive Backs Coach: (B+) They have come along way this year. Mayo probably the hardest hitter in the SEC, Berry a freshmen that had to learn OJT and will be one of UT's all-time greats before it is over. Hef. played good in his final game but his overall effort this season brings the total score for this coach down. You have to be able to get your players to play up to their abilities not down.

In the end we saw improvements made this year with many improvements still needed to become a contender for the National title. The coaching decisions Fulmer must make now will define were this program goes in "08.

http://www.sportingnews.com/blog/Denn...

Posted by dwyvols on January 2, 2008 at 11:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Your grading skills are very consistent with your abilities to analyze. I will give you a D on your reviews for the year. For 2008 you need to watch film on College football and get to know the game. Work hard on getting to know how the line works with the running backs. I could go on and on but I think you know where I am going. Please do not be upset about this and get some rest. Your 2 minutes of thought's require alot of work.

Posted by bigfan502 on January 2, 2008 at 11:12 a.m. (Suggest removal)

VOLS FINALLY WON A BOWL....HOLD OFF THE CRITICAL REMARKS...WISCONSIN WAS A TEAM WITH A MISSION... FIRED UP AND REALLY INTO THE GAME, THE BADGERS WERE DEDICATED TO WINNING THIS GAME, THE VOLS, DID JUST ENOUGH TO WIN...BUT NOTHING ELSE...VOLS FOR YEARS IN BOWL GAMES LACK THE KILLER INSTINCT TO FINISH OFF THEIR FOE..DROPPING FIVE OR SIX PASSES, THE VOLS SEEMED CONTENT TO LET THEIR FIRED UP FOE STAY CLOSE...BUT IT WAS A WIN..TAKES BITTER TASTE OUT OF OUR MOUTH FOR A YEAR ANYWAY...VOLS COULD HAVE WON BY A BLOWOUT...IF THEY HAD BEEN AS MENTALLY CHARGED UP AS THEIR GUTSY OPPONENT.

Posted by james on January 2, 2008 at 11:13 a.m. (Suggest removal)

With the VOLS winning, the Gators losing, (ALA getting beat up in a basketball game), not a bad day for VOLS fans. I didn't understand the gimmick play when everything was working nor did I understand the FG mentality (G-gun) in the fourth quarter when Ainge had turned it back on. Hopefully those types of errors go out with Cut to Duke.
Enjoy this off season. It is well deserved. Good luck to Trooper and Cut.(Although I have a funny feeling Trooper is not going anywhere)

Posted by mparker on January 2, 2008 at 11:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)

tommyjack;
'silly'????

Look at there struggles in the bowls. 3-4 so far, 2 of the teams blown off the field. UW should of been a third. JoePa always competes well, so that helped them.

I'm not one of those who thinks the SEC is super-superior, but this year the SEC is a lot better than the big 10. You can mark that to UM's problems, Minnesoata and Iowa having weak years, and PSU being so-s0.

Hell, next year it may be the SEC who is down: UT gets a new qb and loses Mayo, UK loses Woodson, USC (east) needs a qb, Aub starts a new offense, Bama is still weak, MSU is once and done (I think)....

Everyone goes on and on about the SEC's speed. That isn't it. USC (west) is just as fast (basically an SEC team supersized), Oklahoma, Texas, most of Ohio State. I firmly believe it's the commintment the entire conference is making to fielding good football teams.

Posted by jamcdaniel79 on January 2, 2008 at 11:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)

dead on with foster. we have to get better at the RB position. He was a 1,000 yard rusher but he is not a guy that win a big (or even somewhat big) game.

ainge is not an average qb, he is a b+.

Posted by losvolsganan on January 2, 2008 at 11:41 a.m. (Suggest removal)

One positive on special teams: Anybody else notice that the Reveiz kid always seems to be around the ball, either making or assisting on the takle? We heard his name a lot this season on special teams and he deserves some kudos.

Go Vols! Looking forward to Fulmer's coach hires.

Posted by TommyJack on January 2, 2008 at 11:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)

We need 2. Bring back the fullback.

mparker: You're the one that said it is a weak league. I simply disagree. As you say, these things go in cycles.

Posted by jobrando on January 2, 2008 at 12:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Only thing bad about Berry and his level of play is we will only have his services for one more year and PRO he goes and thats great for him.

Posted by DennisVols on January 2, 2008 at 12:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The good:
1. 10 win season
2. Bowl win to end the season and start the new year
3. Improved defense that should continue to improve next year
4. Offensive line that allowed the fewest sacks in the country, all should be returning next year.
5. Finishing higher in the ranking than they started out. UT has failed to live up to expectations many times since ’98. After starting 1-2 on the season the prevailing thought was this year would be no different.
The Bad:
1. Big losses to Florida and Alabama. Losing to these two teams is bad enough. Getting beat by a combined 100-37 is unacceptable at all levels. This should not have happened nor should it ever happen.
2. Rushing game is middle of the road for the SEC. Not being able to run the ball and control the clock hurt UT. In the losses to UF & UA UT failure to keep the ball, establish a time consuming drive played a big part in the defense give up so many points. Was it the failure of the OC to stick with it more, the running backs not hitting the holes or line blocking? Either way this MUST be corrected for UT to regain elite status not only in the conference but the nation as well.
3. Playing in the SECCG was more than most expected after the Florida loss. UT cannot expect to get into the title game with 2 SEC losses. While playing for the title is good, UT needs to win this game more than once a decade.
4. Killer instinct: Too many times UT builds a lead and allows their opponent to get back into the game. Conservative play calling, getting away from what you do best cost UT style points that could have improved how this team was perceived by other teams and the media. Style points get you rankings and a better shot at a BCS bowl.
5. Another year without going to a BCS bowl. UT is no longer considered one of the top 10. You see it in the pre-season rankings and were they usually wind up in the final polls. It is good to play on New Year ’s Day and many teams both in the conference and the nation will not get that opportunity, but UT should expect more. Standards have been set at UT and those standards have not been met this year or in the past few years. While improvements have been made, the last 2 seasons following the ’05 season, still do not live up to what the university or the fans should expect.
UT is at a crossroads with the coaching decisions it must make at this time. Making the right decisions can answer all the “Bad” this and the past few seasons have shown. The talent is there in the players so the coaches need to have the ability to mold that talent into a champion. A winning history will not make you a winner in the future, but failing to learn from those mistakes will cause you continue to fail.
Be happy with a 10 win season, but never be satisfied with anything less than a championship.

Posted by billwall on January 2, 2008 at 12:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The fumbleroo(s)kie happened just as planned...the rookie fumbled. This was an ill-conceived play. The fumblerooskie is a normal line-up and either the center or guard picks up the ball and runs. Creer was the only one back there who would run. We know Ainge is not going to run with it. Wouldn't that be a trick play a la Stafford in the Au-Ga game! I kept expecting Jones to throw it in this game since he has not even faked a throw from the g-gun. We have habit of playing down to the level of competition but many teams play this way. (Ala comes to mind). I just watched tape of game and Berry's hit was legal....shoulder to helmet. He turns his head when Donovan lowers his head before the hit. Briscoe did a great job with a broken wrist and it was good that we threw some long fades even though we did not complete one. I like the long post patterns because it gives the receiver a better chance to gauge the throw and possibly draw interference or catch it outright. This team really improved after the FL game and we will need really good QB play next year to equal this record. Someone needs to teach Vinson how to catch a ball. He gets his hands on several but never makes the interception and teams end up scoring on us anyway. Defense will be better next year and the offense will not be as crisp. We had very few offensive penalties and misalingments thanks to Cut. Wisconsin hurt themselves with motion penalties and having to call timeout. Cut taught us how to practice!!!!

Posted by TommyJack on January 2, 2008 at 12:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Dennis Skaggs believes in the old axiom, "why use 50 words, when 500 will do". lol

Posted by sjt18 on January 2, 2008 at 12:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

"Only thing bad about Berry and his level of play is we will only have his services for one more year and PRO he goes and thats great for him."

No. They have to be out of HS for 3 years.

Posted by losvolsganan on January 2, 2008 at 12:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

billwall:

I agree on the Berry hit. I played it back frame by frame and it also looked to me like shoulder to helmet. It was the QB that lowered his head.

As far as the WI coach, if his QB is staying in the pocket and getting hammered late, he has a complaint; but when his QB becomes a runner, all bets are off and he should not expect to be treated with kid gloves by the opposing defense (especially since the kid turns out to be nearly immortal). But when the crew of officials is so easily swayed by a coach's whinning, I guess his complaints turned out to be a smart move on his part.

Maybe Fulmer should try manipulating the officiating crew more often. It seems to work pretty well these days.

As far as the season goes, I hated the painful losses to FL and AL (of all the teams to lose big to!), but have recovered and have been basking in yesterdays win. I keep hearing the Pride of the Southland band playing that 'we just beat the heck out of you...' tune in my mind...

Go Vols in '08!

Posted by sjt18 on January 2, 2008 at 12:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

mparker12, I have said and still stand by the idea that the Big10 is often if not most often the strongest conference. They were down last year and this year. So I agree with you. The new ideas brought in by Zook and Rodriguez will help them. Big 10 country has long been underrated for its prep talent.

"Hell, next year it may be the SEC who is down:"

Probably not. I actually think the SEC will get better at the top but the disparity between the "haves" and "have nots" will return... particularly in the East. I think Vandy, UK, and maybe even USC will be down from this year. USC returns some guys... but they lose the ones that salvaged what little respect they could get this year.

As odd as this may sound, USC may fire Spurrier next year.

"UT gets a new qb and loses Mayo,"

Are you sure Mayo is going? I don't think that will be the end of the world or even a bigger loss than Parker if he goes pro... but I hadn't heard that it was decided.

If Mayo takes CPF's advice and only goes if he's a top pick (I think it was top 20) then he's probably staying.

"MSU is once and done (I think)...."

I actually disagree with this. I think everyone except Ark has a roughly equal chance of coming in 2nd behind Auburn in the West next year. Auburn returns most of their players... and the O can't get much worse. LSU loses a lot of great players plus Pelini... who saved the egomaniac Miles' bacon all this year.

"Everyone goes on and on about the SEC's speed. That isn't it. USC (west) is just as fast (basically an SEC team supersized), Oklahoma, Texas, most of Ohio State. I firmly believe it's the commintment the entire conference is making to fielding good football teams."

True. I think it comes down to parity and coaching. No other conference comes close from top to bottom in coaching accomplishments or quality.

On speed, the players recruited out of the SE are on avg a little faster than NE, MW, and west coast. I think the Big 12 is just as fast for the most part. But the disparity isn't what many make of it.

Posted by douglasawilliams on January 2, 2008 at 12:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

All in all a good season. Undefeated at home, first time since 1999 was really appreciated by season ticket holders who make every game. Something still needs to be done about special teams why do we keep struggling with this Coach Fulmer? I'm looking for better things in 2008, need to sign a stud defensive linemen we are sub-par there and hope the secondary gets better to. Of course some help at receiver would be greatly appreciated. Maybe Gerld Jones or Denarius Moore will help us as deep threats. I'm looking to Demetrius Morley to help the secondary next year and Eric Berry will develop into an all-american safety. Please stay Mayo but I can never blame someone for million dollar contracts and signing bonuses. GO VOLS way to finnish strong!!!!

Posted by DennisVols on January 2, 2008 at 12:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Tommyjack
Dr Seuss wrote few words for children to understand
Tolstoy on the other hand wrote for adults.
If I point out only the good I am branded a "Orange kool-aid drinking" Fooler lover.
If I point out only the bad I am labled a "non-fan", "hater" or worse.
As a true fan I chose to not have my eyes closed to the whole story.
I take no insult in your point though.
LOL

Posted by sjt18 on January 2, 2008 at 12:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The whining over the Berry hit was ridiculous. The guy lowered his head and Berry was trying to cut him off at the goal line.

The head to head rule applies when the defender initiates it against a defenseless O player... not when a guy lowers his head using it as a battering ram.

I give Donovan a lot of credit for toughness... but a QB always takes chances when they decide to play a FB's role.

Posted by nmvol on January 2, 2008 at 12:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Overall coaching for the year should get a C- given the talent and horrible play against Florida, bama and Cal and almost letting South Carolina and Vandy beat us.

Chavis is a joke who will end up getting Fulmer fired. Our offensive has been too marginal and unless Fulmer gets a much better staff for the offense he will be lucky to win 7 next year.

The best thing Coach Fulmer could do is to retire and let us upgrade the program.

Posted by PumpUptheVOLume on January 2, 2008 at 12:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)

ERIC "Head Hunter" BERRY....... A+.
Wisconsin QB......A: for takin' our best shots and still walked off the field at the end of the game.
Hope we can recruit some guys with his toughness.

GO VOLS in 2008 & BEYOND>>>>>>>>>

Fulmer.... C- : He advised Mayo to go Pro if he's a top 15 pick... If he wants to stay... Let him stay. He didn't push Peyton out, he honored his wishes. Mayo don't go.

Posted by steve on January 2, 2008 at 12:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Let's cut out all the noise, and give this team an A-. For effort, for heart, for overcoming adversity beginning Game 1. Who would have believed, after the Alabama thrashing, that this team would play for an SEC championship with a chance to rep the conference in the Sugar Bowl? Even short of that, who would have believed we'd play in the Outback and beat Wisconsin? All things considered, this was a helluva year and one UT fans will remember with real pride for a very long time.

Posted by sjt18 on January 2, 2008 at 12:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)

dlskaggs, 4 and 5 look good to me. I think UT is on the cusp.

I like Foster and know I'll tick his bigger fans off... but his lack of a burst hurts UT's running game. Hardesty shows what a guy with a good first step can do behind that line... in the few plays every two or 3 weeks when he's healthy. That's not a knock on him... but he's about as injury prone as Ainge. Imagine how good Hardesty could become if he were as durable as Foster.

Posted by DennisVols on January 2, 2008 at 12:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)

sjt18
I understand why so many fans are upset. I expect more from this program than we have seen.
I think re-hiring coacg Cut was a good move. The discipline needed to be restored. I also believe his leaving has created the opportunity for UT to get back to the level of performance we should be.
It isn't all bad here as some would think, but at the same time we are not playing up to our abilities. Never should there be games like the UF and Bama games. We need a rushers with Fosters toughness and Hardesty's burst of speed.
Most of all we need an OC who can add to what we have already. Gimicks are fun when they work but you can not base your offense on them.
Having the right ingredients you can make a great cake but only if the right amount of each is blended properly.

Posted by TommyJack on January 2, 2008 at 1:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)

DennisSkaggs: None intended either. I'm for you my vol brother.

Posted by DennisVols on January 2, 2008 at 1:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)

TommyJack
Lets just hope that Fulmer's next decisions, involving hiring coaches, are the best in his career.
Then next year the good column is a lot longer and the bad column only says "sad this season had to end"

Posted by TommyJack on January 2, 2008 at 1:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)

skaggs: ditto

Posted by DennisVols on January 2, 2008 at 1:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Berry remind me of these all-time UT greats.
Individual Game
Fumbles Forced — 3, Al Wilson vs. Florida 1998
Individual Season
Total Hits — 194, Andy Spiva 1976 (134 tackles, 60 assists)
Primary Tackles — 134, Andy Spiva 1976
Fumbles Forced — 7, Andy Spiva 1975
Fumbles Recovered — 5, Greg Gaines 1980
Individual Career
Total Hits — 547, Andy Spiva 1973-76 (354 tackles, 193 assists)
Primary Tackles — 354, Andy Spiva 1973-76
Assists — 193, Andy Spiva 1973-76
Tackles for Loss — 53, Leonard Little 1995-97 (25 TFLs, 28 sacks)
Fumbles Forced — 14, Andy Spiva 1973-76
Fumbles Recovered — 8, Conrad Graham 1970-72; Scott Galyon 1992-95
Bronko Nagurski Trophy
Presented to the defensive player of the year as selected by the Football Writers Association of America in conjuction with the Charlotte Touchdown Club. The first selection was made in 1993.
1998—Al Wilson (Finalist)
2000—John Henderson (Finalist)
Butkus Award
Presented to the nation’s top linebacker by the Downtown Athletic Club of Orlando, Fla. First selection was in 1985.
1988—Keith DeLong (Finalist)
1998—Al Wilson (Semifinalist)
1999—Raynoch Thompson (Finalist)
2000—Eric Westmoreland (Semifinalist)
2004—Kevin Burnett (Semifinalist)
Jim Thorpe Award
Presented annually to the nation’s best defensive back by the Jim Thorpe Association, Oklahoma City, Okla. First selection was in 1986.
1999—Deon Grant (Finalist)
1999—Dwayne Goodrich (Semifinalist)
2000—Andre Lott (Semifinalist)
2004—Jason Allen (Semifinalist)

We have wished for this level of talent on defense and this type of mentality.
Berry's name will be listed amoung these greats when his career at UT is finished.

Posted by DennisVols on January 2, 2008 at 1:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

This just in Brown was NOT promoted to OC for the Lions.
Is he still in the UT mix for thier OC position?

Posted by DennisVols on January 2, 2008 at 1:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

This just in Brown was NOT promoted to OC for the Lions.
Is he still in the UT mix for thier OC position?

Posted by Huntingdonvol on January 2, 2008 at 1:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Did anyone see Meyers eyes when Florida went for it on 4th down and did not make it!!!!(deer in headlights look)?Where is touchdown and 99gator?GREAT SEASON AND GO VOLS!!!

Posted by TommyJack on January 2, 2008 at 1:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Where IS the 99gator? Is Suburban Meyer still America's coach? lol

Dennis: The article never said he would be OC..to be head of passing game or some such.

Posted by thesavageorange on January 2, 2008 at 2 p.m. (Suggest removal)

dlskaggs, Bringing back some great memories w/ that list.Berry is a thrill to watch.He seems to be a mix of Grant & Wilson.He has a nose for the ball in the passing game , but unlike Grant he will come up and smack you in the mouth.So glad he chose Tennessee.Now if we can get a DT, and End like a couple on that list watch out.

Posted by mtoms1272 on January 2, 2008 at 2:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Right on diskaggs with all your comments. Filling the coaching spots is huge. I am not a Fulmer hater but I equate UT to that little red spot that shows up in your mouth. You know its cancer but since it is not huge and gaudy you don't do anything about it. When it gets to that gaudy stage its too late. By the time we start losing those really close games it may be too big a problem to fix with just hiring a new OC or DC. That is why I get so frustrated by those that just look at W and L's and never dig deeper. 10 wins when you play 14 games is a whole lot different than when you play just 11 or 12 games. Way to go Vols, and Fulmer please go outside the box and please incorporate some form of the spread offense into your next hire.

Posted by invisiblekid on January 2, 2008 at 4:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

"The Vols were fortunate that Wisconsin didn’t run more often. Tailback P.J. Hill averaged 8.3 yards per carry." Complain about Hooker all you want but he is dead on with this comment. I believe the defense has tremendous upside for improvement next year(especially if Mayo returns which I don't expect) but it has to start at the defensive line. I think Williams and Ayers have the ability to break out. Bolden is down to his last chance to shed the bust label and I don't think he is mature enough to do it. Hopefully some of the young guys like Martin, Langley, Brimfield, and Walker are ready to contribute next year. For the Vols to get back to a championship level, I think other teams need to hope to run for a 100 yards instead of expecting to run for 100 yards in a game. We need to get back to the top in sacks and be able to count on our defensive ends to be disruptive forces again. With UCLA, FL, and Auburn on the early schedule next year, the new-look offense(whatever it is) is going to need a tough defense to lean on.

Posted by asleep on January 2, 2008 at 4:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Look at the whole season. We were preseason ranked about 15 on the average and we will finish better than that. To the good, we stomped Georgia (who was still woofin' last night about not playing for NC) and Arkansas and beat Kentucky and Miss State on the road, strong work seeing how those teams finished. To the bad, we didn't show up at Cal and fell completely apart in the second halves against Bama and Florida. Played LSU tough enough to win. Great season? No, but way better than it looked in September. We are ranked higher now than in pre-season (previous poster says one of only 6 teams in that category) so if you believe those sorts of things, we over-achieved, which is, I'm pretty sure, coaching. We will end up ranked only behind Georgia and LSU from our conference, probably around number 12 or so. By the way, that's also a lot of respect for our confernce considering we almost make the final top 10 with 4 losses.

Also, the spread offense is not the answer. Executing out of the offense you run is the answer. Neither LSU, Ohio State, Vriginia Tech, Georgia, Oklahome, nor USC run the spread. They all have pocket qb's and strong running tendencies just like Fulmer. The difference is execution and play-calling, something the right OC can fix. The triple-option, power-I, Fun-and-Gun, Run-and-Shoot, Spread - they all won games in the short term but proved to be fads in the long term. Don't you think that every SEC team will have the Capital One Bowl film running from now until they play Florida? A solid pocket qb with a little mobility when needed and a strong running game has always, and will always, be in style and get you wins. You can mix in some spread formations, which most teams already do, but you don't have to scrap your entire offense. The game really never changes.

Go Vols!!!

Posted by thesavageorange on January 2, 2008 at 4:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)

asleep :Good post.

Posted by volnmdtn on January 2, 2008 at 4:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)

asleep,
Your post is one of the best that I have ever read on this board! You did a great job in expressing your thoughts.

Posted by pdhuff on January 2, 2008 at 4:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)

asleep 4:23- good post. That said. I believe we "fell apart" against Bama when they recovered the opening kick-off and went downhill from there.

Final ranking is fair, but not top 10 which I firmly believe $2,000,000.00 a year should get you. Played LSU tough, but NOT good enuf to win.

My view is that against (at the time)best 4 teams we played-Cal-Ga-Fla-LSU, we finished winning 1 out of 4.

Stretch run against very average (some non-bowl) teams we won by struggling mightily. FGs missed or blocked saved us. Still wins, no style points.

Well, I digress. we won the bowl game. Hosanna!
Welcome to the doldrums.

Posted by james on January 2, 2008 at 5:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I am not sure how anyone could cut on Chavis. He took a bunch of guys who had little expierence, missing players from injuries and grades and made them into a very respectable team. He has saved Fulmer's job year in and year out.

As for the Cutcliffe, He needs to learn to stay with what's working. Forget the gimmicks, the G-gun crap and play ball. His play calling after getting a lead (in this one and in several games) was either conservative or just plain stupid. When you have them down, finish them off!!. Cut seems to want to let them back up so Chavis has to win the games with defense.
Good overall season. 10 wins is nice. The loses need to be more competitive. Go Vols.

Posted by budd on January 2, 2008 at 6:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

We won because the OC for Wisc was dumber than ours. Throwing the ball when you were running it down our throats slighly surpasses running that fumblewhatever as really stupid.

That said I thought the players were focused and ready to play. That's a plus to CPF.

Chavis did a great job on D and the O line was very good.

We need to learn that Hardesty is twice the back Foster is. Where did he go?

Aigne did what he does best and the receivers were ok. We finally threw it down the field and look what happened? Touchdowns!!! What a plan!

Posted by GerryOP on January 2, 2008 at 7:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I'll say this about dlskaggs and a few others (sjt16 and asleep?) They don't say much ... but ... when they say something ... they don't say much.

Posted by pdhuff on January 2, 2008 at 8:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)

GerryOP-7:08 no one ever accused bro Skaggs of not saying anything. I get wordy myself from time to time. Some even make sense. Well, its over. Not much has really changed.

We'll go thru the doldrums and about August start showing a modicum of interest before staying the course again. We'll make K Kreme jokes and pray for wins. We'll agonize over any blow-outs and like a good woman, never forget it. Some things I can't get my wife to even consider to forget.

Best of all, we'll still love the Vols, the ageless thrill of walking into Neyland and the hope, yes the hope that someday the grail will return to the Hill.

Posted by murrayvol on January 2, 2008 at 8:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

invisible: Good point on the Wisconsin running game. I watched the game with a half dozen other idiots and we all kept waiting for them to drop the hammer on us with P.J. & Co. They never did.

Next year is as much a mystery to me as what Fulmer will do with his coaching staff. I'd like to think the glass is half full (at least) but there are too many unanswered questions at this point. One thing is certain. Overwintering after a bowl win beats the alternative.

Posted by GerryOP on January 2, 2008 at 8:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Yup, as I posted yesterday. 1-0 for 2008 is a helluva lot better than 9-5 for 2007. We have hope.

Be well ya'all! Go Vols!

Posted by PLEASEGETRIDOFTHENOTSOSLIMONE on January 2, 2008 at 9:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Tennessee's recruiting classes the past 5 years:
#3, 23, 4, 11, 18

Wisconsin
#34, 42, 35, 40, 40

Great game yesterday Tennessee. The season a a success now? Give me a break.

Posted by pdhuff on January 2, 2008 at 9:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Plsgetrid-9:03, Are you having the nerve to suggest we don't always coach them up? Are you even hinting the staff bear any responsibility for this low-brow suggestion?

You need to report to orange indoctrination at the earliest possible opening. You need work, sir!

The audacity to hold anyone accountable! Where did that concept come from? Root, root for the Vols. Never apoligize, never question. You may have a little future with a lot of work.

Have a great 2008. Whew.

Posted by utkjoe29 on January 2, 2008 at 9:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I love to read the banter of the UT fans on here. Especially when the haters cant take a break...even after a victory. Which means nothing, no matter what will ever be good enough.

For those real fans that went to Tampa (like myself). I have one question. What the hell is that at the beginning of the 4th quarter for the Baaaaaadgers? I've never seen so many old overweight white people jumping up and down to House of Pain- Jump Around. Seemed odd for a midwest school. Maybe it's me. Go vols!

Posted by slovog on January 3, 2008 at 7:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)

One team intact. One team, UT, without two defensive and one offensive starter ... six players total out due to grades. Virtually all of UT's secondary players would have been bench players if not for injuries and attrition due to grades.

If Tennessee's coaches had not done a good job, Wisconsin could have won big. Thanks for pointing that out, TouchdownTN. This game was won because of coaching.

Posted by Sheepscape on January 3, 2008 at 9:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I agree they did a pretty good job of winning with some players out for the game.

Shades of that blowout in Bama when the Tide had players suspended and Saban pounded us, though so it goes both ways.

Posted by uwishuwereassmartasme on January 3, 2008 at 11:11 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Touchdown TN-

What's up with the FOOLmer nickname. It wasn't funny the first time and its not funny the 500th time.

Fulmer: 2 Million dollar a year salary; doesn't care what you think

You: Chat room wacko; obsessed with him

Who's the FOOL?

Posted by doegem on January 4, 2008 at 8:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Coaching for the '00 Decade: D+

Average SEC Championships per decade for Tennessee is TWO. Last decade with NO championships, the '70's when Battle emptied the cupboard and Johnny started out empty. Fulmer, this decade, starting with a full pantry of players has managed one losing season and NO championships. Of course, there are two years left to get those two championships -- that's why Fulmer gets by with a D+.

Getting excited over a finish atop the East with blowout losses to your two biggest rivals might be the top of the mountain for the rest of the Fulmer era.