Posted by BigVolinCarolina on January 1, 2008 at 8:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Great job, Vols. Defense, you made it happen today and won the game for us despite some bizarre red zone offensive play-calling by our staff.

I'm VERY PLEASED that we won, but I wonder if we aren't lowering our standards. As quoted in the article above, " 'Been waiting a couple years to get one these, huh?' Fulmer quipped." I sure hope our goals are bigger 'n better than an Outback Trophy.

Here's to 2008!

Posted by gvegasvol on January 1, 2008 at 9:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Fulmer was talking about a trophy for a bowl win - not a win in the outback bowl.

Posted by OwensboroVol on January 1, 2008 at 9:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

A great TEAM VICTORY!! The Team overcame some really bad coaching decisions. Lets now hope that Phil can hire the right person for the OC job and We can get lined up for a good recruiting season (I think great is beyond our reach at this point). Then maybe a innovative offense scheme will be put in this spring for a truly new begining next fall.

Posted by dfreeman on January 1, 2008 at 9:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Good point, we lost a 1,000 yard reciever, 3rd or 4th ranked linebacker in the SEC as far as tackles, and a starter on the defensive line. We still won against a team that had every key starter in the game that I'm aware of!! I thought losing Taylor would be the last nail in the coffin for us!! Great game guys!!! Go Vols!!

Posted by DennisVols on January 1, 2008 at 9:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

A good win and end of a season that at times was awesome and at others disfunctional.
While there is some bad memories in this season (Cal, UF and Bama losses) there is still some good to be taken from it.
Some will dwell on what we did not do, the blowout losses to UF and Bama as reasons to support the cause of defeat.
Some will dwell on what we did do, the comeback wins, the whipping of GA and AR, getting to play for the SEC title as reason to support the current situation as getting better.
There are changes that still need to happen at UT. Improvements in the past 2 seasons are good reasons for hope.
The offense needs to open up some, getting a big playmaker needs to happen. The defense did improve but we can not sit on what we have done. We need to focus on where we need to go.
This team fought through adversity, injuries, players failing grades, the big losses and the loss of a coaching staff.
Going forward UT will end this season ranked higher than it started which has not been the case the past 2 seasons. Hiring the right OC will boost the recuriting class back up from were it currently is. Filling key spots on the D-line to stop the run needs to be addressed.
Final analysis: Improvements made, still more need to be made.
10-4 and playing for the SEC title is good. Winning the title is great and Great is the kind of team the lovers/haters want.
Go Vols!!!!

Posted by Bigger_Al on January 1, 2008 at 9:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Sorry to all the negative peeps who are heavily invested in our defeat, but the Vols won today. Certainly not all looked perfect (who did?), but we made the plays when needed. Vols win, and the Big Televen loses!!

That's all good, eh?

Even after we let some Duke people watch our practice. Imagine!!

Posted by Hunter on January 1, 2008 at 9:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Ditto BigVolinCarolina. Our standards to appear to be lowered when Ryan Karl says "I couldn't have asked for a better senior season." Really, Ryan? As a fan, I think you could have asked for more and should be proud of what you did accomplish, but still remember what could have been.

The future is not looking as bright as it could. We are chasing 2nd tier Off. Coordinator candidates, though the defense will be good enough for 10 wins next year with even remotely fair offense. Let's hope Fulmer has a magic trick or two up his (robust) sleeves and finds ahidden gem or two for the staff. I will be waiting with great anticipation!

Posted by ajbake on January 1, 2008 at 10:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Can somebody explain to me why we were hiking the ball with 20 seconds to go on the play clock while the game had less than 3 minutes to go? If we had better clock management (not going out of bounds too), Wisconsin would have never had chance to get down field at end. THIS IS A COACHING ISSUE that must be improved, regardless of who is coaching. Other than that, I'm happy and optimistic about next year. Hopefully, we can showcase some athleticism on offense.

Posted by orangebass on January 1, 2008 at 10:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

good win but we have no question lowered our standards, fulmer and co know all they need to do is win 9 or 10 games every 2-3 yrs and they are safe to ride out their years. winning the sec or beyond is no longer on the table.

and don't forget 3 missed (but makable) field goals by sc vandy & ky or we are celebrating our liberty bowl win today...

Posted by kb7398 on January 1, 2008 at 10:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hey AJBake...we won...celebrate or get over it.

Posted by rabidvol1998 on January 1, 2008 at 10:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hey AJBAKE, you are right about the clock management, I was going nuts watching it. that aside, great win, good season and there sure where a lot of freshmen Vols all over the field.

Posted by eb502us on January 1, 2008 at 10:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Good win, fortunately we had enough talent to overcome the ineptness of our OC. We should all be thankful that Cutcliffe is moving on.

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

glad to win. really proud of this team. do not understand some of the choices of how and when by our coaches to "open up the offense". we'll see who we get and how they use our talent. G. Jones IS special. Go Vols

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

Pete Carroll's recruiting advantage....

http://www.trojanwire.com/images/chee...

Posted by posivol on January 1, 2008 at 11:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)

to all the negananies and fulmer crybabies (you know who you are) when your resume reads:

Tennessee head coach Phillip Fulmer’s record now stands at 147-45 (.766) in 16 seasons with the Vols. He has led UT to 15 bowl appearances and nine 10-win seasons.
Fulmer owns an 8-7 career record in bowl games. His eight bowl victories are more than any coach in UT history (Johnny Majors was 7-4 in bowls from 1977-92). Fulmer is 52-13 (.800) against non-conference opposition.

you may then have permission to whine and cry and ask for a new coach,

until then please please please stfu or pick a new team,how about fl.didnt they just look lovely in their latest defeat (superman my arse).

not to say we cant get better,we will!

but dadgummit appreciate what we have and what we have had,you cant put a price tag on dedication and i challenge you all to name another coach nationwide who has giving more effort,dedication and heart than coach fulmer!

Posted by ajbake on January 1, 2008 at 11:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hey KB... I did celebrate... If you worked for me, and did not perform to perfection, especially in critical moments, I would fire you.

Posted by ajbake on January 1, 2008 at 11:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)

mparker: I have been to USC and UT... the women here in Knoxville are a better recruiting tool than those that attend USC.

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

Fellow posters: Please clean up your grammar and spelling. Some of these posts are unintelligible because I have no idea what the heck you are trying to say!

Posted by Bigger_Al on January 2, 2008 at 12:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Vols win!

Small Mike was seen suspiciously in a Men's Room at a rest stop, lamenting the Vols success.

Posted by newtonrail on January 2, 2008 at 12:45 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Some folks hate Fulmer, some hated Sanders, and lord bless us, we have one who hates Cutcliffe. I hope Fulmer finds someone to prove me wrong, but we will miss Cut. He reclaimed a QB, an offense, and mostly called a good game. He did have at least one today that was a puzzler.( Gimmick play between Creer's legs)

Posted by FatherVol on January 2, 2008 at 1:34 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Posivol, you have said what I feel. Thanks!

Posted by imwithphilly on January 2, 2008 at 4:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Posted by ajbake on January 1, 2008 at 11:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hey KB... I did celebrate... If you worked for me, and did not perform to perfection, especially in critical moments, I would fire you.

So does that mean that you would fire Meyer and bench Tebow b/c they did not perform to perfection when they got the ball back with 1:30 left down 4 and failed. Nobody posting on this board works at Taco Bell btw.

Posted by RocketVol on January 2, 2008 at 6:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Posivol, you know what effort, dedication, heart, and 50-cents will get don't you? But you'll have to go to $1.87 if you want Starbucks.
Guess it's easy to look at 10-4 and get excited - but it was like watching Homer Simpson coach this season.

Posted by madisonvillevol on January 2, 2008 at 7:17 a.m. (Suggest removal)

ho-hum.

Posted by madisonvillevol on January 2, 2008 at 7:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)

better try to keep trooper!

Posted by gillblog on January 2, 2008 at 8:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Given what UGA, UF, LSU, UK, and even Miss St will have coming back next year... those "smiles" should be very very nervous ones. I'm glad about the win, but compared to the other SEC teams in bowl games the Vols looked like a very average team. Maybe the new coaches coming in will be smarter about switching QB's and when to use the trickeration.

Posted by philfan on January 2, 2008 at 8:45 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I think there are three types of fans who post on this board:
Group One-The Irresponsible Negative Fans

One fan stated that he hoped Tennessee would lose so he could win a 200 dollar bet. Another seems fascinated with sheep (have no idea what that is all about). Some make fun of Fulmer's size, and call him FULL and a FOOL. Others are so sarcastic that I have difficulty understanding what they are trying to say. Others deliberately lie with the statistics to prove a point. I spend little time reading these posts. They have no credibility in my eyes.

Group Two-The Responsible Fans

Many people make good points. Four losses is really not that great; losing by 100 points to Alabama and Florida is not good football; calling plays that seem foolish makes the whole team look bad; and not winning a SEC championship in nine years is terrible. It has been a long time since we have been invited to a BCS bowl.

Group Three-The Fulmer Lovers

These are the people that think Fulmer is perfect and can do no wrong.

I am beginning to move from Group Three to Group Two as time goes on.

Posted by leedsvol2007 on January 2, 2008 at 9:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Phifan

I have been a strong supporter of Fulmer but I am not in the Fulmer can do no wrong group.

I do think this constant bashing of 9 or 10 win seasons is perplexing.

Tommy Tuberville would have been welcomed at Arkansas with open arms. He went 9-4 and had embarassing losses to Georgia, USF and MSU.

Florida beat us soundly in September but then lost 4 games to go 9-4. Urban Meyer is considered a genius.

The point is you are not often, even when you are at your best, going to beat teams like UGA, UF,AL and your quality rotating opponents like Auburn and LSU in the same season very often. When you gamble and play top intersectional opponents you run the high risk of a loss. If you lose 2 in a 13 game season 11-2 is the best you can do.

This team was a much better team at year end than in the beginning. The players kept playing hard and eventually became a very good football team. This is the mark of good coaching.

A 10 win season is a very good season. We would all like a 14 win national championship season.

Hopefully one will be coming soon.

GoVols!

Posted by Volker on January 2, 2008 at 9:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Posted by gillblog on January 2, 2008 at 8:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Given what UGA, UF, LSU, UK, and even Miss St will have coming back next year... those "smiles" should be very very nervous ones. I'm glad about the win, but compared to the other SEC teams in bowl games the Vols looked like a very average team. Maybe the new coaches coming in will be smarter about switching QB's and when to use the trickeration.

Kentucky?
Miss. St.?
Really...you think that we should be nervous about these games?
I'll give you UF, UGA and Auburn (even though you are more concerned with MSU and Kent), but they are always tough.
UK barely beat a reserve team from Tallahassee, UF got beat by an unranked Mich team and MSU beat UCF by a touchdown. Try posting something that is actually thought out.
Way to go Vols, I look forward to another winning season next year.
I sometimes wonder if some of you people are Vol fans, actually watch football or if you have ever gone to a UT game. I was at the Alabama game and the SEC championship this year (along with some of our wins including th bowl game) and I have maintained a positive outlook towards this team. I feel confident that Phil will bring in a capable O.C. and we will be better next year. The play calls that you are all pissed about came from OCDC not Phil...I am pretty sure that we can find someone more adjusted to modern offense than OCDC. I don't want to take anything away from him he's a great oc and a great man, but UT wins with defense and the chief will have a strong unit next year.

Posted by philfan on January 2, 2008 at 9:26 a.m. (Suggest removal)

posivol,
You are what I would call a Group Two Responsible Fan. VolCR, you are clearly a Group One Irresponsible Negative Fan. Your sarcasm could be interpreted as admiration for Tennessee football. I am now a 2.5 Responsible Fan. madisonvillevol, you just seem tired. Better take a nap now.

Posted by grvol on January 2, 2008 at 9:35 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Will never understand why they called off the vertical passing onslaught. Because it was working so well, I knew Cut would shelve it in the second half. Seems Cut gets obsessed with what isn't working and will keep doing it until it does or 2 qtrs go by with no scoring. In the second half Ainge just retreated backwards toward the sideline at a 45 degree angle making even a five yard pass require a 20 yard throw off the back foot. It was frustrating, but with Cut and the dink and dunk hopefully on the way out, I'll take the win.

Posted by Volker on January 2, 2008 at 9:41 a.m. (Suggest removal)

nafslov,

I hope your grapevine is a good one. He's a great fit. He will be great for recruiting and coaching. He knows how to coach up talent and can connect with the high school prospects.

Posted by TommyJack on January 2, 2008 at 10:01 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Are some of you seriously proposing a high school coach be given the OC job?

Posted by Colliervol on January 2, 2008 at 10:15 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Good points by philfan and leedsvol. Pretty well sums things up. Let's summarize the last 3 years in terms of progress.

*2005- 5 and 6, no bowl game- Unacceptable
*2006- 9 and 4, loss in bowl game- Some improvement but work still needed.
*2007- 10 win season, SEC East Champs, bowl game win, narrow loss to probable national champion in SEC title game. Still some work needed but much better.

Sure, there's a couple of disturbing losses (Florida and Bama, especially Bama which, looking back, is inexplicable). And there are always coaching moves to second-guess (like that trick play call yesterday trying to hand the ball off through Hardesty's legs. Huh?) And there is always room for more improvement. Next step: SEC Championship and BCS game. Personally, I'm excited about an infusion of new blood in the coaching staff and with the core of young players that I saw yesterday.

When all is said and done, if the progress from 2005 is not evident to you and all you want to do is criticize 100% of the time then you have no credibility with any comment and really don't need to post any longer. A little constructive criticism is always helpful to anybody but to be incessantly negative speaks for itself. You simply don't have the best interests of the program at heart and that's obvious.

And a final note: Don't forget to call our fearless prognosticators at 1-800-CALL-RTH for their next picks. (If you want to lose your house that is. Lord knows you would have if you had followed their picks on the Vols since the Bama debacle.) I am breathlessly awaiting their LSU-Ohio State pick so I can go the opposite way.

Posted by sjt18 on January 2, 2008 at 10:23 a.m. (Suggest removal)

"Posted by TouchdownTN on December 31, 2007 at 3:47 p.m.

What a joke. Foolmer will lose because his staff didn't stay in tune with the players academic needs and now he's lost key team leaders, and even lost player focus. Is it a coincidence that Wisconsin had zero academic casualties? Will it matter that UT is playing without its best WR, its best DT, and its second best LB? Nah, those kind of losses are no big deal. Wake up Vol Nation. For the second year in a row, Foolmer has lost key players before the bowl game. Losing coaches is not his fault, but allowing Duke's AD to promote a "lack of focus" circus is certainly his fault. Before you disagree, ask yourself this simple question. Can you imagine Neyland or the Bear doing the same thing? For you young guys: It would not happen. Lose your focus on the tight rope and you will fall. Foolmer is about to splatter / get embarrassed to a Big 10 team for the second year in a row and lose his 6th bowl game out of the last 8. Embarrassing!"

Embarrassing prediction....

The only thing really bad you can say about this game is that the margin should have been much greater. The trick play and 3 consecutive G-gun plays were bad calls.

I wish UT had a back with Hardesty's running ability and Foster's durability....

Posted by sjt18 on January 2, 2008 at 10:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)

jraymond, Your last post and the B- grade was the most intelligent thing I've ever seen you post. The only thing you are off on is that UT had the talent to do much better. Talent maybe... but not the right combination of talent, depth, and experience.

The offense probably did as well as it could all things considered. The D improved.

As for next year, yes... I'm excited about the prospects. UT, Aub, and UF are probably bring back the most. UGA will be very good but have some big D losses and as well as Thomas Brown, Mikey Henderson, Sean Bailey, and a couple of OL's.

The question marks for both UF and UT are on D IMO. UT will be solid except for the DL... that's where all the questions have to be answered. I think UF's D was exposed by Michigan. They don't lose a whole lot... but what they had out there just wasn't very good.

For those in love with the spread option and "en vogue" fad offenses.... Michigan showed what can be done with a CPF style of O with a good balance of running and throwing.

Posted by james on January 2, 2008 at 11:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)

This is a time to enjoy, not to fuss. We heard that all year. Congrads to the VOls/players/coaches and fans. Enjoy. We can worry about what if's next week or when ever. GO Vols.

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

mparker and ajbake: Just as long as our recruiting advantages don't model themselves after the Colorado cheerleaders/hostesses! Colliervol, dead on, as you are much of the time. I, too, am excited about the infusion of new coaches on the Hill. I credit Phil, rather than accusing him, because his OC was chosen as Duke's new head coach. I see the progress of the past two years, and, while I hate blow-out losses to the Gators and the Tide, I'm raising my CPF grade to B for the season. Let's see how the hiring and recruiting game plays out over the next few weeks! Go Vols! SAVol

Posted by philfan on January 2, 2008 at 11:16 a.m. (Suggest removal)

jraymond1,
You asked for my overall rating for the season. I agree with all your points, but I would rate it as a C plus overall. The two big losses to Alabama and Florida, for a total of 100 points, lower it from a B minus to a C plus. I think we will do better with a new OC and, if he really is a well-known man, we should do really well in recruiting.

Posted by Southland on January 2, 2008 at 11:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)

fulmer is a decent coach Florida should be ashamed and Myers is one of the most pitiful coaches of great talent in the nation. If it comes down to coaching decisions and not just talent look for the sorry Buckeyes to win. Hopefully talent will prevail

Posted by sjt18 on January 2, 2008 at 11:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)

"UF's defense was still good enough to beat us 59-20 in Sept."

Recently it was revealed that Ainge suffered a significant shoulder injury against Cal. That coupled with his pinky hindered him all year. UT did not run consistently at any point this year. If you remember the game... UF overwhelmed UT's D late in the game.

As 99gator has mentioned, they committed to stopping the run since they couldn't stop both... Mich, Aub, LSU, and UGA are above avg rushing teams. UT was not.

"UF blows us out every other year Fulmer has been the head coach."

Ummm. Nope. Why would you post pure ignorance in front of folks who know better?

There have been two real blowouts. I agree that's too many... but it doesn't happen every other year.

"Care to tell me how many times we have blown out UF with Fulmer?"

Once if I'm not mistaken.

I'll have better access to info a little later and get back to you.

Oh.... if you ask Gator fans, I'm sure they'll agree that their D was their weakness this year and concern for next year.

Posted by sjt18 on January 2, 2008 at 11:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)

"We should have never had to "improve" from a season like 2005. We got back to where we should be the last 2 years but are 9 years and counting without an SEC title."

Absolutely. I believe UT has the talent to win the SEC next year and that should be the expectation... or at a minimum getting a BCS bid. To continue to improve from rock bottom 2005, CPF needs to win 10+ regular season games plus get the Vols back into the BCS mix or else an SEC Championship.

IMO, something like UGA's season this year should be the only acceptable alternative to winning the SEC.

CPF has a tremendous opportunity to move the program to this level if he hires the right offensive staff and allows the new OC to be more aggressive with his philosophy.

Posted by thebrownbunch_6 on January 2, 2008 at 11:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)

hope we don't get in trouble for using the "annexation of Puerto Rico" play from the Little Giants movie. We need to let that play stay with Pee Wee football.

Posted by missrvrvol on January 2, 2008 at 12:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Yawner of a game, which typlified our season. Good thing we were playing another mediocre team. Good 07 season, but not great. No OC candidate and as on now sitting 42nd in Rivals recruiting site. 08 will be a interesting season to say the least, but one that will not be a championship season. Look for 8-4 and 3rd in the East.

Posted by RocketVol on January 2, 2008 at 12:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Tennessee has been destroyed by Florida many more times than once or twice. Maybe not every other year. The fact is, Fulmer and his staff are among the best in game prep in college football, but the worst at making adjustments. If the gameplan is wrong to begin with - a blowout ensues. If the gameplan is good, every Tennessee fan watching this game buckles their seatbelt in the second quarter as the opponent begins their comeback. Rarely, rarely does Tennessee execute a solid gameplan and make the right adjustments all in one game.

I recall several dominant Florida performances where the score didn't indicate how bad it really was. There were 2 Manning games that were blow-outs, and a shut-out in Knoxville in the '90's. Then last year - I think it's 4 minimum maybe 5 in the last 13 years; that's an embarassment percentage of about 38%. If you look at only losses, (off the top of the head) Florida is blasting Tennessee about 50% of the time.

Posted by thesavageorange on January 2, 2008 at 1:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

By reading a lot of these post you would have thought we lost.Have to agree w/ 1 negative though.Several times this year(WIS,USC,KEN, and others)we have not been able to make adjustments on offense in the 2nd half.Good news is we have a chance to fix that w/ the next OC.I really like CUT, but it seemed as if he never got back into the groove he once had.If not for Cut though these last 2yrs could have been total dissasters.He brought back some disipline, and character.This game should have been atleast 35-17 , but atleast we didn't have to pray for a wide left.Good job VOLS!!

Posted by DCSOvol on January 2, 2008 at 1:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The lack of adjustments almost beat us yesterday. I wish everybody would get sick of this inconsistent, stale slop and run the fat one to the hills. I also wish we would get Trooper at OC, but Fat Boy doesn't like anyone with ambtition. They might stick it in his back. He should know. He's an old pro at it.

Posted by Merv on January 2, 2008 at 1:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

There's grade inflation in the classroom, and record inflation on the gridiron. ...

The average SEC team's record is 4-4. Everyone's other 4 games are cream-puffs, although the league managed to lose 8 of those games this year (40-8 overall, average 3.3 wins). ...

So a regular season record of less than 8-4 shows you are not a good team. With that baseline, winning 9 or 10 is not excellence.

Posted by DCSOvol on January 2, 2008 at 1:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

For all the fulmerons, here's my statement: "Yay we got another trophy for participation and having the courage to try". Now, for what counts: "still 9 years without an SEC championshipsd. Talent bottoming out. Inconsistent, sloppy play. Players not making grades." Oh yeah. Lovin' this 10 win mediocre season. FIRE THE OBESE ONE.

Posted by newtonrail on January 2, 2008 at 1:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Quarles can't take the pay cut.

Posted by thesavageorange on January 2, 2008 at 1:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)

RocketVol :Blow outs between UF & UT since CPF took over.(Aleast 14 point wins).UF 94' 95' 02' 07'.TENN 92' 03'.UF does has a couple that are much more impressive.07' etc...

Posted by DCSOvol on January 2, 2008 at 1:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Our 10 win season kind of feels like it was produced by the "No Child Left Behind Act". Yeah, we won 10, but we lost 4, 3 of those horribly against what for UT should be real competition. Glad they won, and looking cautiously forward to next year, but this season was not anything to hang our collective hats on. We were way too close to 5-7.

Posted by DCSOvol on January 2, 2008 at 1:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I think I fall in Group 2, but Fulmer tends to give me Group 1 tendencies at times.

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

still no touchdowntn sightings?

It must be worse than reported yesterday. He was drunk in a ditch, but then had made it a few steps back toward home.

Does he need a ride?

Posted by DCSOvol on January 2, 2008 at 1:29 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Heart, Passion, Loyalty: The qualities that Fulmerons cherish. I'll give Fulmer that.

Execution, Preparation, Gameplan, Adjustments, Finish: The qualities that will win SEC and national titles.

I've been waiting for group two since 2001. When will my wait end?

Posted by thesavageorange on January 2, 2008 at 1:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)

One of the problems is(IMO) Tenn needs to get back to having a big nasty OL.Those 6'2-6'5 320+lb average lines.You can protect a lead and run the ball , but not if you can't tire out the d-line.Don't need a super agile line if you can run , and use play action.The D-line as well.My brother works for CBS for the Titans home games , and I got to meet John Henderson , and Albert , and none of the guys we have now (physically)look anything like those 2 monsters.You can look in their eyes and see they have bad intentions when it comes to football.Haven't seen that from Demonte yet.I am also cautiously looking forward to 08'.

Posted by thesavageorange on January 2, 2008 at 1:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)

VolCR , That is an eye opening statistic.Told my group at halftime we might have gave the game away by not closing out drives in the 1st half.

Posted by hueypilot on January 2, 2008 at 1:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I thought we won the game. I'll have to check the tape. Obviously, Wisconsin made some adjustments to take away the medium depth passes down the field in the second half, which Ainge was feasting on in the first. Don't know where the schoolyard play came from when we were moving the ball at will, and still don't understand number 4 in there on third and 8. I was sure he was gonna chuck it, but nope, he ran it. BTW, Jones has great talent, but he ran the wrong way on one play in the red zone.
As for great talent, I don't think we had any game breaking receivers this year. Not much separation on man coverage. Still concerned about poor secondary play, altho we played better D late in the game, and Fulmer made the right call to run the ball on third and long to make Wis use their final timeout and Colquitt punted them to a long field. We rushed three, dropped eight, kept everything in front of us and made them throw deep, not Donovan's strong suit. Give the staff credit when they plan and execute a winning end game strategy. They did it today and tbey did it several times this season.

I can't wait til next year. Go Vols.

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

Another 10 win season and East Champs. Not shabby! UGA and Florida returns young teams, so they will be trouble, we get a break to UGA has such a hard schedule. We need to improve on D, or we will not be able to stop the spread option in game 3. I hope we get an OC that can compete with UGA, FL, LSU, OSU, Texas, USC, Bama etc. in recruiting and make the jr's want to stay. I hope Eric does well and is the next Tom Brady at the next level, but I am excited that we will have a change at QB! We may be running a new style of O next year not just changing from the power I to a 1 back like we did 2/3 years ago.

Posted by sjt18 on January 2, 2008 at 2:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

DSCOvol, "talent bottoming out"?

Maybe if you are referring to the last couple of graduating classes.... however last year was maybe CPF's best ever. A few of those guys RS'd and may be impact players next year. The 2005 class was pretty good due to the 2004 upswing. 2005 was a disappointment.

I know it doesn't count until it produces on the field... but from a recruit ranking standpoint... talent is probably on the upswing after bottoming out.

BTW, it bottomed out as much because of discipline and grade problems than anything else... all part of that 2001-2005 low period for the program.

Posted by sjt18 on January 2, 2008 at 2:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hey DSCOvol, just noticed... You can't have it both ways... If you are going to say the team is untalented then how do you explain 10 wins, an appearance in the CG, a credible performance there, and the improvement this season? You are left with good coaching, right? But you say UT isn't well coached too. What is it? Magic dust?

Posted by auttat on January 2, 2008 at 2:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

VolCR, that is pretty bad, so was the 4-10 record. Oh wait, they went 10-4. All 60 minutes count, jackass!! Go .... a goat!!

Posted by sjt18 on January 2, 2008 at 2:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)

No... auttat, don't you get it?... Only the things that diminish the program or stats that demonstrate that UT is bad count.... You must love mediocrity since you don't accept that method of analyzing the status of the program...

No matter how you have to spin and collate the facts... they must always demand that the program is mediocre and headed down... and justify an immediate dismissal of CPF.

Did UT make good half time adjustments? Not usually... but like you said, any score during the game counts...

Posted by spam247buster on January 2, 2008 at 3:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

It was a win. I'll take it.
GO VOLS!!!

Posted by volntx on January 2, 2008 at 3:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)

6 TD's in the second half of 14 games. Thats right 6! Glad we won, But 6?

Posted by sjt18 on January 2, 2008 at 4:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)

12times... considering the recent history of the UT v Bama series... there's no way you should be talking smack... especially when UT's season took off from that low point while your's sunk into the sewer. Did you enjoy that 3rd rate bowl win over talentless Colorado?

The win over UT was a fluke... enjoy it while you can but don't become delusional. If Saban was the second coming of the Bear, you wouldn't have lost to MSU... much less ULM.

Oh, and don't get to used to Saban... the universal truth for prostitutes is they follow the John who waves the most money. In a couple of years, the market will catch up and he'll leave you in his wake. Don't believe me? Take a good look at his career.

Posted by sjt18 on January 2, 2008 at 4:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)

VolCR, Yes. 10-4 is a good step on the road to recovering from 2005... especially when this particular team came from where it started to beat one BCS team and play a NC contender to an even game decided by two late INT's.

If they regress, I'll be more critical. But if someone is taking physical therapy for a broken leg... I can be pleased when they start walking again rather than carping about their inability to run. I can be pleased with progress without sacrificing greater expectations for the future. This is a very serious question: Why can't you?

Posted by auttat on January 2, 2008 at 4:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I have no reason to write home about the season. It is what it is, and I had nothing to do with it. (Outside of walking into the stadium and yelling)

Tell me what you did to collect a win or loss? My moronic thought process will not allow me to see your undeniable contributions on the field.

Posted by IHATEBAMA on January 2, 2008 at 4:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)

12cheaters... Saban= 6 wins your idiot go f$%% your sister

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

sjt18, its like arguing over politics. You get so dang mad you even argue for things you don't necessarily agree with, but you know what side you are on and you stay on it. I think most reasonable Vol fans want to win championships, but they know how hard it can be.

Fulmer is an incredible person who has dedicated his whole life to the University. I just feel he deserves more respect than what is shown on this and I am sure other boards. And, 99% of the people that post wouldn't dare say it to his face. That is classless.

That being said, I, at times throughout the year, questioned if it was time for a change. The team showed heart and desire the last half of the season, and that starts from the top.

Posted by volnmdtn on January 2, 2008 at 4:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I agree with most people on this board that we will be better next year. Right now we do have the talent coming back to be very successful! Now,this is what bothers me, what happens 2 or 3 years down the road if our recruiting class THIS YEAR doesn't get any better? We are rated at number "43" right now and this WILL show up and CAUSE us many problems in the future!!!

Posted by auttat on January 2, 2008 at 4:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Would it bother anybody if 12times got hit by a car tonight? Better yet, a train.

This "guy" is a-maz-ing (hey look, I can do it too)

Posted by 55Vol on January 2, 2008 at 4:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

12TIMES..... how do you expect anyone to take you seriously? You talk of inbreds and hillbillys but you spell and have sentence structure exactly like an illiterate person does. 41-17...yep Alabama won and then started to believe the press clippings read to them concerning their limited success......and proceeded to lose to the $100,000 per year coach at ULM. Gee, according to you , why would you even bother to consider TN worth mentioning? You were very LUCKY to beat Colorado. See you guys in basketball soon where TN will clean your clocks in preparation for next year's woodshed event in Knoxville when TN whips Bama's a$$.
And stop inbreeding.... you weaken the gene pool.

Posted by PaulTheVol on January 2, 2008 at 5:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hey 12Times, you need to speak a little louder...Bama is so far down the standings that I can't hear you - and of course it's a long way from Shreveport to Knoxville.

Posted by sjt18 on January 2, 2008 at 5:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)

"Had we had a coach with half a brain"

You mean like the one you hired for $4 million who promptly took a much more talented team and finished with exactly ONE more win than Shula? I'm not even a typical UT fan. I don't hate Bama or even always pull against them... but what Bama did to Shula was classless... and HE WAS a classy guy as opposed to the current Bama HC.... and loyal to Bama... as opposed to the current Bama OC. You guys are very much like the man who leaves his faithful wife for the town trollop... and apparently too stupid to realize it.

Posted by sjt18 on January 2, 2008 at 5:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

"The vuls-in-tears played 5 teams with talent and a coach!!!!!! LOST 4 OF EM."

Bama had 7 wins, right? Ark, UT, Ole Miss, Vandy, CU, Houston, and WCU. WCU isn't even a good FCS team. They won like two games. Houston was off their norm. Ole Miss? Are you kidding?

Besides UT... which one of those schools would you claim has talent AND good coaching? If you dispute UT then you're saying you paid $4 million to beat no one.

UT beat UGA and Miss St. That means that at least one team without talent and coaching beat YOU. ULM, Aub, and FSU are teams that might also fall in that category if you put Ark, USC, UK, and Wisconsin in there.

Did UT get beaten by a team without talent and coaching? No... but Bama did... and Saban laughed all the way to the bank.

Posted by DCSOvol on January 2, 2008 at 5:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Well, sjt, I think that over half of the 10-4 is blind luck and providence. We got plain lucky in 4 of those games. I just can't see this slop and love it like some can. We saw from 1995-1998 how it should be done. Been downhill every since. I remember Jay Graham, Charlie Garner, Jamal Lewis, and the Travises. Our current starter couldn't hold those guys' jock. Do you see a Peerless or a Joey anywhere. I just can't right now. I'll take the results and be happy with them, but I can also see how close we came to 5-7.

Posted by DCSOvol on January 2, 2008 at 5:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)

12 times, I am an Alabama native (the Shoals to be precise). I grew up in a UT family because my mom went to UT. I HATE the Tide, but not just because of the rivalry. I remember being coached by Dennis Homan in youth football and baseball. I remember Richard Todd putting on passing clinics in Florence because his wife is from there. Ricky Tucker was one of my neighbors (CB, '79 NC). I hate Bama because of their arrogance and lack of class. You are a prime example. Still living the 12 NC dream, even though Bama hasn't come close in 15 years. I moved to Tennesse because Alabama is an economically stunted, good-ole boy run state. I had to move to TN to find a job that paid anything. Take the Tide, Alabama the state, George Wallace, and anything else having to do with that sorry place and shove it.

Posted by DCSOvol on January 2, 2008 at 5:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Also grew up with Pat Augustine's kids too. Pat is a class act.

Posted by volnmdtn on January 2, 2008 at 5:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)

If you see a post on any of the Tennessee boards from 12times, just ignore them. Don't read them or reply to them and maybe he will go away!! He's just doing this to get under our skin.

Posted by Volunteerfan on January 2, 2008 at 6:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)

12Times, first off, I live in Mobile right now and trust me - anybody from the state of Alabama has no right to call Tennessee hillbillies. I live among people who are fellow Alabamaians (probably family of yours) and their family tree does not fork..Straight Up.... Do you get it? Just wandering! By the way can you answer these questions (take time if you need to get someone to help you)
1. Who Played for the SEC Championship? That would be Tennessee
2. Who did not get beat by a High School Team (See ULM Game? That would be Tennessee again
3. Who finished with a legit New Years' Day Bowl Game victory against a ranked quality opponent? You guessed it..Tennessee
4. Out of the last ten years who has won the most games between Tennessee and Alabama..That would be Tennessee again
Alabama might have got lucky and won that battle by playing the game of their lives but do not even start comparing Alabama's season with Tennessees. How many wins did Alabama end up with? How many wins did Tennessee end up with?

Posted by budd on January 2, 2008 at 7:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)

where is that litl' devil tdtn? musta run outa crack. or maybe he's getting into makeup for his tv show

Posted by uwishuwereassmartasme on January 2, 2008 at 7:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

DCSOvol

You wrote "Well, sjt, I think that over half of the 10-4 is blind luck and providence."

Actually, all 10 wins came from UT scoring more points. You probably didn't know this, but a team gets 6 points for a touchdown, 3 for a field goal, 2 points for a safety, 1 point for a PAT (or 2 id you run or pass it in) The team with the most points win. No points are given for blind luck or providence.

You also wrote "Our current starter couldn't hold those guys' jock". Why would they want to hold someone else's jock. That seems kind of a strange thing to do. Is that how you spend your free time when you aren't composing ignorant posts?

Posted by bigorangesob on January 2, 2008 at 7:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hey guess what we won, can't yall stop pissing and whining and enjoy the win, and give thanks the season is over.

Posted by DCSOvol on January 2, 2008 at 8:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)

No, blind luck just made sure that KY and VU didnt beat us by scoring 3 points, which would have caused a victory by the other team. Sorry, not interested in the kool aid, uwishuwereassmartasme. I really dont, because I understand simile and symbolism, where obviously, you do not. Arian Foster is not capable of carrying "their jock". That means that Arian could not compete for a starting job with the likes of Garner, Stewart, Graham, Stephens, or Henry. Understand?

Posted by DCSOvol on January 2, 2008 at 8:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I am not satisfied because the time is coming where the lack of preparation, finish, adjustment, and coaching will not be overcome by our talent. Then, we will pay hard in the form of a 5-7 or 4-8 season. I remember when Fulmer coached teams prepared, played hard, had good gameplans, and finished games. They also played with discipline and beat the likes of UK and VU without the last second dramatics. This slop they play now is not what I remember as UT football. You have to go back before 2001 to see that. Call me what you will, but FULMER NEEDS TO HANG IT UP before he really does run it in the ground.

Posted by sidwalkvol on January 2, 2008 at 11:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

what about your prediction, tdtn? when you do show up, you are still pounding the same ol' rock, still staying the course. Griping like heck.

btw, I do know some classy Bama fans. One of them is a member of my church. Neither inbred nor ignorant, and vacations in East Tennessee where he is amazed at the negativity of some of the fans.

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

Good ole' 12times to the rescue!! His Crimson Turd won a bowl game over the mighty Buffalo's and he's ready to crown em' NC's!! LOL Hey 12, to your post on the other earlier article I'm sure the University had everything to do with those players (Goodrich, Little, and Henry) being in trouble AFTER (being the key word) they left UT. The fact that they didn't get into trouble while here speaks volumes about the staff!! I don't think I'd be bragging about the cleansliness of the Alabubba Crimson Turd program though!! Anyone need an Escalade??? Albert Means to and ends anyone?? Anyone need textbooks for class?? Alabama needs a good law school just to defend the people that either run the program or have ties to it!! Hey 12times, how many times has Alabubba been on probation in the last twenty years and how many times has Tennessee?? Oh and Jamal Lewis was in Baltimore in 2000 when that incident happened. Look it up hick!!

Posted by dfreeman on January 2, 2008 at 11:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Welcome back TDTN!! I was actually hoping you found 12time loser!!

Posted by eefor10c on January 3, 2008 at 12:12 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Out of Touch-Down TN, WOW!!!!!!You really came back with a vengeance and upgraded the discussion. Taking a whiz on someone, cap crap and sticks, and giving us all your coaching insights. best get back on your meds and back in the nursing home.

Posted by Hunter on January 3, 2008 at 3:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I got to deliver a CLASSIC line to some Bammer fans in Shreveport at the Indy Bowl....

I take my father-in-law (Bama fan - hot daughter went to UT) to the game. We sit amongst the Bammer fans and I play nice, though no heering either way. At the end they are all whooping it up about their winning season. Guy next to me comes over to give me a high-five. I give him a cold stare and say,

"Buddy, we don't celebrate 7-6 seasons at the University of Tennessee....."

Start hating Bama for next year........

Posted by TommyJack on January 3, 2008 at 10:34 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Dfreeman: Have you noticed that you never see ole TDTN and 12x on here at the same time?? Hmm?

Posted by sjt18 on January 3, 2008 at 11:34 a.m. (Suggest removal)

DSCOvol, I don't see a great RB on the team right now unless it is Creer. Someone who was underrated a la Rogan could emerge but I couldn't guess who it would be.

Hardesty has the tools IMO but he's never stayed healthy.

At WR, UT has 3 or 4 guys with the potential to be great. Jones is the most likely. IMO, he looks like a P Price type of player if he'll put in that type of work. Remember, he played as well as he did this year after being sidelined with an injury and while making the adjustment to WR from QB.

He could be very, very special.

Moore, Hancock, and Paige are guys I think have great potential... spotted ape if he gets his head on straight.

Taylor, Briscoe, and Rogers IMO are more Bret Smith types. Good possession guys that you need and don't hurt you... but they aren't going to scare anyone if that's all you've got.

Posted by dfreeman on January 3, 2008 at 1:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

yep, I thought about that earlier!! However, if you change your username it changes it for all of your earlier posts.... TDTN is off the hook for that one!!

Posted by TommyJack on January 3, 2008 at 1:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Dfreeman: I'm calling in forensics..He's not in the clear with me yet. lol

Posted by dfreeman on January 3, 2008 at 5:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Don't touch any of the evidence, you'll blow the DA's chance at a solid trial!! lol