Posted by tngeoff on January 30, 2008 at 2:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Very...very...very good!

Posted by brdteton on January 30, 2008 at 2:47 p.m. (Suggest removal)

GoVols.

Posted by sjt18 on January 30, 2008 at 2:47 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Can his scholarship be hidden in the baseball allotment?

It would be nice to get a guy like this that didn't count against the 85 limit.

Posted by ONUV on January 30, 2008 at 2:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

we need DTs

Posted by vol98 on January 30, 2008 at 2:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)

we don't need quaterbacks...i look at avg rating more than rankings. those rankings are based on points. you could have 28 3*'s and be a top 10 class. by no means are we doing great, but our avg per player is just outside the top 25, last i checked. anyway,

Posted by sjt18 on January 30, 2008 at 2:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Yes and OL's... but let's be happy for this kid anyway. He sounds like a quality guy. Sounds like a great arm with better than average speed.

IMO UT needs two more DL's minimum that can be developed into DT's or else they have to look JUCO next year. They need to get 1 or preferrably 2 more OL's... I don't like JUCO's for OL.

Posted by GerryOP on January 30, 2008 at 2:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)

A big commit! Does anyone know how he stands in baseball draft? Hmmmm. Another Casey? But he's not from the cool, laid back West Coast! That's a good thing!

Posted by RockyTopRK on January 30, 2008 at 2:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Welcome to Tennessee Casey! Todd Helton makes us proud and so can you! Give us one year before deciding on a professional baseball career. You won't be sorry. Good luck!

Posted by pdhuff on January 30, 2008 at 2:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)

tngeoff - did I read that he was only offered in baseball by ASU? Either way, looks like he's going to be drafted. If not, c'mon son and wear the orange.

Posted by sjt18 on January 30, 2008 at 2:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)

vol98, you can't get top 10 with all 3*. I don't know how but their ranking system doesn't reward teams just for adding more players.

Check out last year's rankings. Somehow UT's 3* ended up back them up.

Posted by knoxsingle on January 30, 2008 at 2:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Congratulations to Mr. Kelly! Welcome to the Volunteer family.

Posted by Neyland_Vol on January 30, 2008 at 2:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)

sjt18: Not likely. The 11.7 scholarships given to baseball are even more coveted than football scholarhsips. If he's a legit 1st rounder, he'll never make it to Knoxville. You're looking at $1-$2.5 million signing bonus. That is, of course, if he's actually taken that high.

Posted by sjt18 on January 30, 2008 at 2:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Gerry, I don't think Clausen ever came close to a 4.6 forty... and doubt he had the quickness to play shortstop at the college much less pro level.

Posted by ATLVOL1 on January 30, 2008 at 3:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Good for our baseball team...interestingly Kelly said that Clawson told him the QB job is wide open and everyone has a chance to start this year. This is the best pure athlete at QB we have now.

Posted by rabidvol1998 on January 30, 2008 at 3:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

sjt18 - No. Any player playing football and another sport must be on a football scholarship.

Posted by ATLVOL1 on January 30, 2008 at 3:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Casey speaking to Scout:

They are going to run an offense similar to last year. They plan to have a pro-style offense. They have a junior quarterback who will probably be the starter, but the job is open for anyone.”

Posted by Basketball_Jones on January 30, 2008 at 3:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Remember Garciapara's little brother was coming here for football and baseball as well. He's in the minors.Hopefully this will work out

Posted by ATLVOL1 on January 30, 2008 at 3:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

check this out:

http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?y...

He was projected possible top15 picks last year by MLB.com....I would think he is going pro.

Posted by txsvol on January 30, 2008 at 3:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Well, when he signs the baseball contract, Ol' Phil can "Bowden" him, and tell him that if baseball doesn't work out, he'll always have a scholarship open for him. Chris Weinke managed to win the FSU Seminoles a National Championship in 1999, and the Heisman trophy in 2000. I'd probably rather have a mature 22 year old in four years than another QB in the queue right now. Good to have Casey aboard, whichever way the chips fall! Go Vols1 SAVol

Posted by vol98 on January 30, 2008 at 3:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)

sjt18..maybe overstated a bit, but looking at rivals, a team like Minnesota with 17 3* and 6 4* is a top 25 class..you can read how they come up with the points..its a combo of 'quantity and quality' but it looks like to me that a large class will inc a team ranking...but still I don't like seeing us that low and not even being considered by "top" talent

Posted by GreerVol22 on January 30, 2008 at 3:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

scout.com has him listed at 6-4 195 and a 4.6 40. Rivals at 6-2...Which is it? 6-2 or 6-4...not that it matters because from what I read he's going pro in baseball...if he's as good as he thinks he is. Heck, even his pic on rivals is in his baseball uniform so it kinda shows where his heart is.

Posted by wuwh_08 on January 30, 2008 at 3:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I would make this sweet little pitcher a little faster and a reciever.....We don't need no stinking QBs

Posted by HotlantaVol on January 30, 2008 at 3:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)

If we 'Bowden' him, he could also come back as a Kelly Washington and rip the team to shreds.

Posted by bigorangedude on January 30, 2008 at 3:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

This was huge! Great job Vols!

Posted by kdt0725 on January 30, 2008 at 3:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I like the signing, can't ever go wrong with a QB but hes so small at 6'2 190. Needs to put on some weigt. Not so sure how he'll be as a pure pocket passer if he can't see over the line that well. Doubt he really develops if he splits his time wiht baseball. Spring practice is a big learning and proving ground.

Posted by sjt18 on January 30, 2008 at 3:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Faison was a similar type situation and will play as a non-scholarship because his college expenses are played through some deal with baseball.

Posted by kdt0725 on January 30, 2008 at 3:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Faison is the same age as Latrell Scott.

Posted by pdhuff on January 30, 2008 at 3:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)

tngeoff-How soon will he be elgible for ride-alongs? Just jesting, guys. He'll be at some Class a team's diamond.

Loved the guy's post, wtf is an ogg?

Posted by ATLVOL1 on January 30, 2008 at 3:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Maybe he can stay 3 years and help take us to the CWS ....I mean if Crompton struggles early next year who knows....Crompton has some early season tough opponents.

Posted by Greyback_Vol on January 30, 2008 at 3:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I don't think this kid ever makes it to Knoxville. I'm also not really thrilled about his desire to play two sports. Two sport athletes rarely do well in college. Otherwise this would be a nice commitment.

Posted by bigbluevol on January 30, 2008 at 3:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)

sjt, I think the deal with Faison is that he's using the money from his baseball contract to pay his way in school.

Posted by marc_ash on January 30, 2008 at 3:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I wouldn't exactly say this pick up is "huge". First off, he won't even see the field for at least 2 years. That being said, he may never arrive on campus at all.

This kid want's to be paid...period. He even says so in his quotes. Let's also look at his decision by what he has said completely. He said he felt most "comfortable" at UT. Translates to me as saying "Best opportunity for his overall future". If he is drafted in the first round, great..he's gone. If not...great, he stays and gets to improve his draft stock. He is here for baseball, and not football IMO.

He comes to UT, he has to know he won't see the football field for at least 2 years. He won't be a factor at UT I don't believe.

Posted by pdparker14 on January 30, 2008 at 3:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hmm. A Quarterback named Casey and an Offensive Coodinator named Clawson. Anyone see the irony there?

Posted by smokey90 on January 30, 2008 at 3:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hughes jumped to a 3* overnight. Was there a football game last night that I missed?

Posted by ATLVOL1 on January 30, 2008 at 4:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Marc you are at it again with the quote dissection! You were right on savage. Good Call.

Posted by ATLVOL1 on January 30, 2008 at 4:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

MLB.com says he has a short swing with power...thats exactly what scouts look for, means he can catch up to 95 mph fastballs.

Posted by agentorange on January 30, 2008 at 4:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)

i'm so happy i could punch someone in the face, smoke a joint and scream and wave my arms in a parking lot. seriously, he's a good pick up.

Posted by volinSmyrna on January 30, 2008 at 4:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)

smokey90...There were a lot of things that factored into his not being on the radar.

If he would have been publicized by his coaches and made the camp circuits for the last couple of years, he would have been a sure-fire 4* in my opinion. Nobody knew who he was and his team was not good. He is an absolute beast. I hope he goes the Hargrave route and develops some technique. That way he will still have 4 years to play college ball. If this guy learns some technique, he "CAN" become a J Henderson type kid. Big, Strong, and plays with a nasty disposition....perfect for a DT.

Posted by thesavageorange on January 30, 2008 at 4:22 p.m. (Suggest removal)

smokey90 ,Rivals still has him as a 2*.Scout 3*.Hughes created a buz during the East/West all-star game.He was dominating some higher rated players.Once the word got out, rivals and scout started disecting the films.He is a raw project w/ plenty of upside.

Posted by Rok_Etop on January 30, 2008 at 4:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

ASU didn't offer football because they signed Elways little boy this year. Football there would have been an extra cur activity. Still waiting on the D(efection) Train!!

Posted by bowerst on January 30, 2008 at 4:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Everything I heard is this kid has a rocket, but the baseball thing scared everyone off. Funny how the gloom and doomers say we don't need QB's , he is no good or everyone else would be after him, that he would be another Kelly Washington, etc.

Has Crompton proven he can win an SEC game? Is there someone else on the roster who has taken a snap, other than Gerald Jones? Does every guy who tries baseball and goes back to play college football have an ego bigger than Neyland Stadium? Just curious.

Posted by nivatne on January 30, 2008 at 4:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Dupree, what 2 JUCO DT's are we going after? Rivals sure doesn't have any listed.

Posted by FryeGuy on January 30, 2008 at 4:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The problem with baseball draft rules...
Once a student athlete reports to 4 year school to play baseball...He is not draft eligible again for 3 seasons (with few exceptions)

There's always the possibility of playing minor leage ball and still playing college football. but QB would be the last position you'd want to try this in.

I think Mr. Kelly will play pro ball. Anyone drafting him will know they have to payup and even if he slips to 3rd round or lower he will likely be paid above slot value to go pro.

Best of luck either way.

Posted by DannyVol on January 30, 2008 at 4:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Just a committment to bolster the ratings. This guy will never play a down for us. I hope I'm wrong, but I'm not.

Posted by vols2008 on January 30, 2008 at 4:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Long time reader. First time questioner. Just wondering about the fact that if Kelly does go pro this summer do we get the scholarship back next year or is it lost forever?

Thanks, I'll hang up and listen..........

Posted by IPOrange on January 30, 2008 at 5 p.m. (Suggest removal)

He's a BB player - he'll never dress out in pads. Best of luck to him either way...

Posted by bowerst on January 30, 2008 at 5:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Probably no freshman will take Crompton's job, but if he gets hurt or plays horribly, it's usually a good idea to have some talent waiting in the wings.

Posted by marc_ash on January 30, 2008 at 5:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)

ATLVOL1, I might be wrong but I have to ask myself how this guy see's himself benefiting by what he's doing. He has talent in baseball and knows it...so where is he going to showcase it? On the baseball field.

Not that this is a negative for the Vols per se. Just don't want everyone to get caught up in excitement of Kelly unless they are baseball fans (becasue that's where he will shine if he shines at all at UT).

Posted by marc_ash on January 30, 2008 at 5:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Anyone remember the last Vol that played minor league baseball and then came in to play football for the Vols?

Another Kelly ironically...Kelly Washington. He did ok.

Posted by marc_ash on January 30, 2008 at 5:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)

If ANYBODY takes Cromptons job it will be B.J. Coleman. You can rest assured, Mr. Kelly will not see the football field this season either way unless it is at a different position.

Posted by beaznvol on January 30, 2008 at 5:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)

We have another good signal caller besides Crompton. He's name is B.J. Coleman! Crompton is tough and does have the mobility to escape the pocket and allow a receiver to get open down field if need be. He is one tough young man. I believe we will see a world of difference in his mentality being the #1 guy.
Don't be shocked if you see him run an option play or two and lower his shoulder, smacking a DB to the ground in 2008.

After Crompton we have "The Golden Boy" B.J. Coleman. He's gonna be a good pocket presence Q.B.
Kelly is a good hitter and I hope if he does make it to Knoxvegas, he will smack a couple of dingers out of the park.
Don't forget about the arms we got in the stable right now folks.

Posted by johnlg00 on January 30, 2008 at 5:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Can't say the kid doesn't have lofty goals--start at both QB and SS? This commitment doesn't excite me as much as a couple of big hosses for the line would. Hope we still have a couple of those in the pipeline.

Posted by govols57 on January 30, 2008 at 5:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)

We don't need him and he will never see the football field. He is a much better baseball player. He will get drafted or quit football to play baseball. This is a wasted football scholarship. He will never play.

Posted by VolnDothan on January 30, 2008 at 5:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I'll be very surprised if he comes to Knoxville. He's not rated as a stellar QB by the recruiting services but sounds like a great athlete none the less.

Besides, I believe next year will be extremely important to obtaina star-quality QB. Here's where we stand with QB's going into the '08 campaign:

Alex Trent Soph
B.J. Coleman Soph
Dylan Dickey Jr
Johnathan Crompton Jr.
Nick Stephens Soph

Obviously Crompton is our guy for the next two seasons but I've read that Coleman and Stephens aren't too far behind if needed. I guess spring will tell...

Posted by mgraham65 on January 30, 2008 at 5:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

SJT18 - It wouldn't make sense to count him against baseball's allotment. They only have 11.7 scholarships (I believe that's right...) to offer. Of course, football has like 80-something. As a matter of fact, most baseball players are here on partials anyway. The rest of their tuition is usually made up from educational scholarships, grants or by paying their own way. Obviously, it helps the baseball team having that extra scholarhip to offer to a one-sport guy. In football, he's just another leaf on the tree.

A perfect example of this is Todd Helton. He attended UT on a football scholarship, was a back-up quarterback for the most part (starting only two games), and walked on to the baseball team. I think he did okay :)

BTW, for those of you who only rely on the "rating" system, Warren Sapp was only a 3-star guy when he came out. He had a Hall of Fame career. Chad Pennington was a "rest of the best", in other words unranked. He's played for several years and started a lot of games in the NFL. Albert Means was a 4.5 in most publications. Daniel Brooks was a 4-5, depending on which one you read. Where are Brooks and Means now?
The list goes on. However, the fact remains, the rating systems are essentially comprised of the opinions of guys trying to evaluate these players through conversation, maybe some video highlights, coaches eager to get their kids into school somewhere (which I don't disagree with, BTW), etc. There is a real possibility never even from getting to see these kids firsthand, on a game to game basis.

Remember the vaunted recruiting class of 2005? How many of those guys have made a huge impact on the UT program?

Point is, take the rankings for what they are... best guesses. Talk about it around the bar table, pound your chest, as hard as you can and have another beer on an October Saturday and thank Michael (me) for reminding you of the reality of the business.

Posted by georgenenc on January 30, 2008 at 5:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Not too worried about whether this guy comes here or not. We're not in bad shape at QB. I am really more interested to see how Clawson runs the offense. Also isn't Clawson supposed to be strong in recruiting in the Chatham, VA area? Isn't Enrique Davis from Chatham?

Anyhow, this year we really need LB's, DT's, and DE's. Would be nice to pick up Marty Everett or Marcel and Demetrius Dareus. Keith Wells could also end up bolstering the class. I am not sure if I can take Phil and the chief griping about D-line for another year.

BTW: Don't know if anyone noticed the 2 JC's that have committed.

Stephaun Raines runs a 4.35 40.....Gerald Williams LB - was the nubmer 3 LB at the time. Basically a 4-Star LB that had acedemic problems. Both of them can step in and start next year...if needed

Posted by FWBVol on January 30, 2008 at 5:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

VolnDothan, Coleman redshirted this year so he'll still be a football freshman, Dickey is a walkon, and I'm assuming Trent is a walkon as well because I've never heard of him and I probably follow the team closer than most.

I still doubt that Kelly would start before his junior year if he does stick it out in football.

I'd rather "waste" a football scholarship on a guy who can help the baseball team, than waste one on a guy that comes in with all the talent in the world, but has an attitude. I'm not picking on James Banks, but it could be said that was a wasted scholarship. The same with Coker.

If a kid comes in, stays out of trouble and can help either the baseball or football team or maybe both, I don't think we've thrown anything away.

By the way Vols2008, if he signs baseball the football scholarship will be open, but would probably be held for the next signing class unless there was a walkon Fulmer wanted to help a little next season.

Posted by cdldoc on January 30, 2008 at 5:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Nice excess of quarterbacks. Maybe tennessee can go to the two quarterback system... two in the backfield at the same time. Sort of a single wing with 2 Qbs instead of 2 Rbs. If only we could trade 1 or 2 for a defensive lineman. Do we really need another Qb?

Posted by sjt18 on January 30, 2008 at 5:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The reason I asked about putting him under a baseball scholarship is that according to the roster VolCR posted yesterday UT's football team only has 15-17 scholarships to give. They know how to play the game and some of these guys will undoubtedly be prep/JUCO. They may have someone like Anderson grey shirt... but they've still got a scholarship crunch for the next two years.

The roster this year will be made up of something like 16 Srs, 20 Jrs, 20 Sophs, and 29 Freshmen.

There has to be a squeeze somewhere. Nothing particular against the kid but I'm sitting here hoping that Floyd flips to Michigan so that UT can actually sign some big DL's if they can get some to commit.

Posted by sjt18 on January 30, 2008 at 5:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Enrique Davis is originally from Florida. He was placed at Hargrave by Auburn but he de-committed when they changed offenses and OC's.

Posted by dburgVol on January 30, 2008 at 6 p.m. (Suggest removal)

stj18, I wouldnt be upset if Floyd switches. That frees ups a scholarship, and he's been selling and flaunting himself around. Don't want that kind of athlete. sphs_vol has me doing loops. He says top 15 class, but he could be blowing smoke. Maybe 99gator pretending to be a Vol, or he could truly be an insider. Who knows, but Walls was a pleasant surprise and Willie Bohannon was nice. Would be nice to get Enrique Davis, Abrams-Ward, and Coples. Still wish we hadve gotten Marvin Austin last year, he wouldve been the icing on the cake. Water under the bridge I guess. Too many kids missing out on the greatest college football experience. I just hope sphs_vol is right.

Posted by sjt18 on January 30, 2008 at 6:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I think I'll take sphs seriously one way or the other after NSD.

Posted by ctownvol on January 30, 2008 at 6:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)

That darn Casey Kelly...He's bonafide!

Posted by volipop3 on January 30, 2008 at 6:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Can someone please tell me what was wrong with Curt Phillips from Kingsport? He's a four star player, but should be five. Tennessee never even offered, but his stats are better or as good as Pryor. The guy was a stud, and it was a mistake letting him get out of the state to Wisconsin after seeing him play in person. His stats were even better then Tebow's senior year, and he is bigger and faster then Tebow as well. Oh well, what do I know? Welcome Kelly to Big Orange Country.

Posted by philfan on January 30, 2008 at 6:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

sphs,

On an earlier post you mentioned that there could be major defections from fellow SEC rivals but were not at all specific. Stan Drayton was recruited away from Florida and, according to the KNS, it appeared that Urban Meyer was not at all happy about it. In fact, Drayton suggested the two could have had words. Is Drayton planning on asking some or all of the players he recruited for Florida to commit to Tennessee? Is that the big surprise you were alluding to? Come on, man, and tell us what you know!!!

Posted by vol1994 on January 30, 2008 at 6:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

why would we offer this kid a football scholarship if he probably won't even dress in a uniform.

I know we have scholarsips avl but..

surely not to boost rankings? someone plz advise.

Posted by ATLVOL1 on January 30, 2008 at 6:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Ok lets get this straight.....

HAS ANYONE FROM MCCALLIE, BAYLOR, OR MBA EVER BEEN A GOOD COLLEGE FOOTBALL PLAYER?

I keep hearing Coleman is the second coming of Jesus?

Posted by AllVol on January 30, 2008 at 6:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm with you, Philfan. Geez, Louise, this is killing me. I welcome Casey to the Big Orange family--I really do. I just wonder what the point is--maybe baseball. I just don't see him taking the job from either Crompton or Coleman, and as a Chattanoogan, I hope B.J. wins the Heisman. Maybe Casey will be an All-American on the diamond. That would be just dandy, too. Anyway, you will become a Tennessee Volunteer, Casey. Damned fine. Damned fine. Best of luck to you.

Posted by nafslov on January 30, 2008 at 7:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I would feel a little better if his first name were Tee, Condrege,or Heath but.....No one has asked if he has a younger brother named Jimmy, have they ? Thank you Notre Dame !!! Go Vols !

Posted by rabidvol1998 on January 30, 2008 at 7:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Condrege made the exact same decision between UT and Arizona St. and Football and Baseball. Worked out pretty good. I doesn't hurt to have a QB in each class. He will probably redshirt and focus on baseball. Then there will be distance between him and the rest.

Posted by b_knows49 on January 30, 2008 at 7:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

What we need is a 4 or 5 star running back, not another QB. We have become predictable almost to a fault. You can't win in the SEC without a good running game, and our rushing game in the SEC is at almost rock bottom.

Posted by thesavageorange on January 30, 2008 at 7:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)

b_knows49 ,Not to worry.If you go back and look at Clawson's stats as HC and OC ,he has been very good at tayloring an offense around his talent.If we have the studs(and I think we do)he will cut them loose.Drayton is a good coach , and has worked w/ some very good players he turned into good pro's including J Norwood and M Westbrook.If you're looking for another good back, then hope we land E Davis.

Posted by BigVolinCarolina on January 30, 2008 at 7:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Although I'd rather have had a DE or DT commitment today, I'll take a QB.

I just hope we can teach this Casey how to do more than what the last Casey was taught--which was to hitch your leg twice, clap twice, take the shotgun snap and then throw a screen pass.

Posted by ellisonfamily on January 30, 2008 at 7:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Sean Renfree, that went to Duke in following Cutcliffe, is ranked the same level. So...I guess we really did not lose anything.

http://footballrecruiting.rivals.com/...

Posted by dburgVol on January 30, 2008 at 8:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)

sphs_vol---give me some info!!!!!!!!!
WHEN?????????????
4 SURPRISES???????????
WHEN?????????????

Posted by straightshooter on January 30, 2008 at 8:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Its more likely Crompton will start for the next 2 years than this kid ever seeing much playing time in football. In the case he surprises, its good to have a plan B. And for those who look for stars, Crompton was a 4 or 5* when he came to Tennessee compared to this 3 * rated guy. What we really need in the offense is a better running back. Someone who has vision, hits the gaps, makes something out of nothing and has an extra gear so when he gets in the secondary, he is headed to the house. We don't have that in Foster or Hardesty. Maybe Creer will develop further this year and see more action.

Posted by PLEASEGETRIDOFTHENOTSOSLIMONE on January 30, 2008 at 9:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

yawn........

Posted by ATLVOL1 on January 30, 2008 at 9:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

check this out:

Bill Duff, Carl Zander, Jamie Rotella, Darrin Miller, Sterling Henton, Eric Lane, Bill Marren, Greg Amsler, Rashad Baker, Turk McBride and the ever popular Pete Panuska from the appropriately named town of Brick, N.J., are just some of the Volunteer standouts from New Jersey that earned well deserved reputations for their hard-nosed play.
If there’s anything Tennessee could use on defense it’s an infusion of toughness, and it just so happens there’s a couple of hard as nails New Jersey DBs who remain very interested in volunteering their gridiron services to the Big Orange.

Teammates at Winslow Township in Atco, N.J. are Reuben Johnson, the nation’s No. 11 cornerback prospect according to Scout.com, and safety Tyrone McBride who is ranked No. 44 at his position and is the first cousin of Turk McBride.

Johnson is one of the country’s most rapid rising prospects having made the improbable leap from No. 38 to No. 11 after a consortium of Scout.com analysts evaluated film from his senior campaign. The 5-foot-9, 175-pound athlete runs a 4.4 time in the 40 and appears to be a prototypical cover corner.

As his stock has risen so have his suitors.
“I also like Tennessee a lot because they have a great tradition and also because I have great friends like Turk McBride who have gone there and been treated well, so I know that I could trust the coaches with my future there,” Johnson recently told Scout.com recruiting analyst Matt Alkire about his official visit to the Tennessee-South Carolina game. “I know it is far from home and that is something we are trying to avoid, but sometimes when the ball goes off the court you have to go and get it. Another thing is that Tyrone McBride and I have always talked about trying to go to school together and that is a place that could give us an opportunity to do that.”

Johnson has good strength as his 275-pound bench press and a 425-pound squat clearly attests. He played both running back and in the secondary for Winslow Township. As a junior he intercepted seven passes, returning three for touchdowns. He also returned two punts and a kickoff the distance and gained 400 yards rushing.

"I feel as though I'm a good downhill-and-hit type guy,” he told Scout. “I'm also very good when the ball is in the air. I'm very physical and like to hit, but I want to improve my footwork and movement. I'd like to get better at breaking on the ball and my hips."

There is talk of Johnson and McBride taking other visits this month, but sources close to the situation believe they will end up at UT, assuming each qualifies.

Undoubtedly, they are qualified to add some pop and toughness to the secondary.

THESE 2 HAVE BEEN PRETTY QUIET LATELY...WOULD BE A NICE PICKUP AND PART OF A BIG FINISH, JOHNSON IS A 4.4 40. MCBRIDE IS COUSINS WITH TURK MCBRIDE.

Posted by sjt18 on January 30, 2008 at 9:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Wadley committed to Auburn also.

sphs... you better help soon.

Posted by KingsportVol on January 30, 2008 at 9:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Why is this football news? J Crompton 5* recruit.Good luck on the diamond Casey.Stay away from late night trips to Krystal burger.Another 100 pounds and you are a DE.Not being negative.Did we need another QB this year?

Posted by hdhurst on January 30, 2008 at 9:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

For all it's worth, I was very impressed with Crompton's two full games earlier in his career. You can't judge the guy on the limited "mop up" duty he had this season. As we have learned from rotating QB's in the past (Ainge vs Clausen), you need consistent game reps to get into the flow of things.

That being said, while Kelly is a nice prospect, I don't consider this as anything but a 2nd insurance policy (behind Crompton and Coleman). He will most likely be a stand in as Helton was.

Lets get some 3* or 4* lineman or this year can't be anything to get excited about. GO VOLS!!!

Posted by nicksjuzunk on January 30, 2008 at 9:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Great stuff. If he doesn't work out in football he always has a baseball career. Let's hope he is a diamond in the rough.

His shoulder pads look like what those women wore in the 80's though... pretty dang big.

Posted by tngeoff on January 30, 2008 at 9:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

ATLVOL1.

Dang. I'm a Jeresy Boy and couldn't remember all those! Good job! Jamie Rotella's younger Brother Mike also came here but got kicked out for "scalping" tickets which used to be illegal. Their Dad, Al Rotella was also somehow connected and got a lot of the old school Jersey boys down here. Are you from Jersey? I went to Randolph High School and Jr. High in Bloomfield, NJ.

Posted by Plasticman on January 30, 2008 at 9:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)

it never hurts to have another QB coming in because you never know what might happen (players quit, transfer, get injured) I think keeping 4 QB's on the squad is a good move, especially when you can get a quality on like Kelly. I would say Coach Raleigh is happy about this too!

Posted by ATLVOL1 on January 30, 2008 at 9:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)

from ATL tng....

The QB race is wide open people, Crompton played like a spaz against Arkansas and LSU last year. Crompton is the big recruit on campus but is by no means a cemented starter. Stephens played aginst HArgrove and lit it up in the JV game last year. I bet Crompton starts 1st game but he doesnt have a long leash.

Posted by dburgVol on January 30, 2008 at 9:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)

sphs_vol, you have got to answer me! When are the four surprises coming? You can't just tease me. I need a timeframe.

ATLVOL1- Crompton will absolutely be the starter. Phil will NOT have another qb controversy like 05.
Hes got more talent than Ainge or the last two Clausens ever dreamt of.

Posted by anthony on January 30, 2008 at 10:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

sure looks good on paper doesn't it!! big surprise, i like it!!

Posted by ATLVOL1 on January 30, 2008 at 10:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Crompton is the OPPOSITE of EA.... I hope you are ready for this kid.

EA is like Peyton- boring and precise.
Crompton is like Favre - more exciting and more drama.

Posted by romevol on January 30, 2008 at 10:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I know that Crompton is "the man", but does anyone know that much about Coleman? From what little I have seen of him he is a fantastic backup should anything ever happen with our starter. Here in this part of North GA (close to Chattanooga) he is spoken of very highly.

Allvoll - have you seen much of him in action?

Posted by wuwh_08 on January 30, 2008 at 10:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I know this is a Gator Site below but it is a great article on Coples

http://florida.rivals.com/content.asp...

Posted by volunteer_cowboy on January 30, 2008 at 10:22 p.m. (Suggest removal)

CB 18 Montario Hardesty
(New Bern HS)
New Bern, NC 6-0/196/4.50 02/02/2005
Tennessee
LB 20 Gerald Williams
(Boyd H. Anderson HS)
Lauderdale Lakes, FL 6-4.5/225/4.80 02/02/2005
Tennessee
DT 24 Vladimir Richard
(Piper HS)
Sunrise, FL 6-4/255/4.80 02/02/2005
Tennessee
WR 19 Slick Shelley
(Southside HS)
Fort Smith, AR 6-4/180/4.65 01/31/2005
Tennessee
OL NR Darrius Myers
(Cordova HS)
Cordova, TN 6-5/328/5.00 01/30/2005
Tennessee
OL 9 Chris Scott
(Lovejoy HS)
Lovejoy, GA 6-5/315/5.30 01/26/2005
Tennessee
OL 57 Dan Williams
(East HS)
Memphis, TN 6-2/320/5.10 01/17/2005
Tennessee
DE 4 Raymond Henderson
(Oak Creek HS)
Oak Creek, WI 6-5/255/4.65 01/15/2005
Tennessee
LB 7 Rico McCoy
(St. Johns College HS)
Washington, DC 6-2/215/4.55 01/15/2005
Tennessee
S 19 Adam Myers-White
(Hamilton HS)
Hamilton, OH 6-3/190/4.50 01/15/2005
Tennessee
OL 11 Josh McNeil
(Collins HS)
Collins, MS 6-4/275/5.20 01/04/2005
Tennessee
CB 24 Lucas Taylor
(Carencro HS)
Lafayette, LA 5-11/171/4.62 01/02/2005
Tennessee
OL 55 Malcolm Rawls
(East HS)
Memphis, TN 6-4/300/5.10 12/15/2004
Tennessee
LB 18 Andre Mathis
(Cathedral Preparatory School)
Erie, PA 6-2/225/4.60 12/14/2004
Tennessee
LB 34 Todd Cox
(Harding Academy)
Memphis, TN 6-1/195/4.60 12/14/2004
Tennessee
TE 13 Jeff Cottam
(Germantown HS)
Germantown, TN 6-7/255/4.75 12/07/2004
Tennessee
S 31 Antonio Wardlow
(Parkland HS)
Winston Salem, NC 6-1/200/4.40 11/07/2004
Tennessee
WR 78 Josh Briscoe
(Burns HS)
Lawndale, NC 6-3/175/4.50 10/31/2004
Tennessee
CB 1 Demetrice Morley
(Miami Killian HS)
Miami, FL 6-0/180/4.55 10/24/2004
Tennessee
WR 91 Austin Rogers
(David Lipscomb Campus School)
Nashville, TN 6-2/185/4.55 09/06/2004
Tennessee
CB 53 Richard Kemp
(Warren HS)
Warren, AR 5-11/175/4.50 07/16/2004
Tennessee
OL 23 Wes Brown
(Athens HS)
Athens, AL 6-4/252/4.90 07/07/2004
Tennessee
QB 3 Jonathan Crompton
(Tuscola HS)
Waynesville, NC 6-4/216/4.90 06/25/2004
Tennessee
CB 33 Marsalous Johnson
(Smyrna HS)
Smyrna, TN 5-9/183/4.50 06/21/2004
Tennessee
RB 7 LaMarcus Coker
(Antioch HS)
Antioch, TN 5-11/195/4.40 12/24/2003
Tennessee
DT 27 Demonte Bolden
(Hargrave Military Academy)
Chatham, VA 6-4/295/4.90 04/12/2003
Tennessee

Posted by volunteer_cowboy on January 30, 2008 at 10:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

class of 05, pick out the starters out of all these 4 and 5 * studs?????????

Posted by ATLVOL1 on January 30, 2008 at 10:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

12 STARTERSCOWBOY

COPLES IS GOING TO UNC

CROMPTON NEEDS TO PROVE HES NOT A BED WETTER

Posted by TNisPeerless on January 30, 2008 at 10:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Will Bartholomew was a pretty good fullback from MBA; although, I'm partial.

Posted by ATLVOL1 on January 30, 2008 at 10:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

REMEMBER THIS PEOPLE:

July 27, 2005
Vols freshman QB to miss entire season
Will he redshirt behind Erik Ainge and Rick Clausen or won't he? Well, the answer is: he will.

Incoming freshman QB Jonathan Crompton will undergo shoulder surgery next month and will miss the entire Tennessee Volunteers football season. Crompton injured his shoulder in June during voluntary drills at UT.

Keith Clements, UT's head trainer, said Crompton underwent an extensive evaluation over the last few weeks from the UT medical staff and head team orthopedist Bill Youmans. An MRI revealed a torn labral cartilage.
"Jonathan and his family have elected to pursue surgical management of his right shoulder pain," Clements said.

"A tentative date of Aug. 8 has been scheduled so UT team orthopedists can perform an evaluative arthroscopic surgery to determine the type and extent of the damage and appropriately manage his condition."

Depending on the extent of the tear, Crompton may need to sit out as many as eight months, but it is likely to be four to six months.

Coach Phil Fulmer praised Crompton's decision, saying that he was doing what was best for his long-term health.

Posted by Kevin Donahue

Posted by volunteer_cowboy on January 30, 2008 at 11:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)

atlvol1: is it a done deal on coples

Posted by dburgVol on January 31, 2008 at 12:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)

No volunteer_cowboy. Bad info.

Posted by txsvol on January 31, 2008 at 12:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)

ATLVOL1: How about John Hannah? http:en//wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Hannah_(football_player)
Or, on our present team, Jacques McClendon? From McCallie, Jason Hall? Or from my time, LB Sam Robertson, 1966, backed up All American LBs Frank Emmanuel and Tom Fisher.
Don't have a clue about MBA. But, Hannah is recognized as one of the all time great offensive linemen. Sorry that I remembered a Bama player first, but without question, he could play with the best--college or pro! You current 'Noogans, which of the schools is called the 'Bellhops?' I think that it has changed from the '60s. Go Vols! SAVol

Posted by nicksjuzunk on January 31, 2008 at 4:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Come on guys... back me up. Those shoulder pads are like an aircraft carrier, huh?!!

Posted by oldorange on January 31, 2008 at 7:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Lets see, how many two sports guys have ever excelled at football while playing both ?????????

Posted by ATLVOL1 on January 31, 2008 at 7:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)

those are not QB shoulder pads...

Posted by nicksjuzunk on January 31, 2008 at 7:34 a.m. (Suggest removal)

oldorange: I'll go with Deion Sanders and Bo Jackson. Other than that, I don't know of many who have done both at once.

Neither of those players were the best in baseball but that's not our main concern is it?

ATLVOL1: I still argue that those are not shoulder pads, but some type of ship.

Posted by GerryOP on January 31, 2008 at 8:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)

oldorange: Ron Widby (1967?), Fulton HS, K'town. - I believe he lettered in football, basketball, baseball and track. Played for Dallas in NFL and N.O. Buccaneers in ABA.

Posted by orangebloodgmc on January 31, 2008 at 8:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I was thinking Widby. What about Alan Cockrell ... didn't he play baseball too? One of my all-time favorite qbs that we ever had.

Ya oughta get at least one qb in every class. Let him try his dream of doing both. Can you redshirt him in football but "greenshirt" (let him play) him in baseball? Could work out well for all.

Posted by wrvlvolfan on January 31, 2008 at 8:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I don't see anyone beating Crompton for the QB job. He will have two very productive years. Crompton is a stud. He is not committed to passing from the pocket. He is very dangerous on the run.

Posted by AllVol on January 31, 2008 at 8:37 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Romevol,

I have only seen news film of B.J., but I met him in the locker room at UT and ran into him at the mall here in Chattanooga. He has a magnetic personality and is built like a prototypical QB--he appears very athletic. Many at UT have said he is a born leader and winner.

Posted by AllVol on January 31, 2008 at 8:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I hope you are right, wrvlvolfan. And I think you are right, too. I think Crompton will be electrifying.

Posted by nicksjuzunk on January 31, 2008 at 9 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I am absolutely not anti-Crompton but hearing everyone continually singing his praises has me wondering... where have you been seeing all this good stuff?

His fill in duty this year was quite pedestrian with a couple of picks. Granted, he did a fair job the previous year when EA was injured but nothing that makes me state "THAT is the future!!"

Maybe you guys have seen some good Orange and White stuff that I haven't but I am not 100% sold... yet.

Posted by sjt18 on January 31, 2008 at 9:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)

The QB job IS open but you have to think that JC has a leg up. All three of the QB's have leadership ability. All three seem to have good heads on their shoulders.

I'm originally from western NC so my heart is with Crompton and Coleman but if a kid from Texas or Florida is the best man for the job... let the best man win.

We are probably way ahead of ourselves predicting the outcome of the QB race... I've done it too. It seems that Clawson looks at QB's differently than Cut did. He seems to have a different philosophy. Cut's way didn't seem to favor Crompton. Clawson's might... but none of us know yet.

Soon enough though...

Posted by pdhuff on January 31, 2008 at 9:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Gentlemen - Do not forget Phil's caste system. Barring pigs flying Crompton will start.

He should do a workman-like very satisfactory job plus he can and will scramble. Remember, stay the course is not just a phrase, it is a way of life. Has produced some results in the past. We're about to see (hopefully) that it can again.

It will take the coaching jobs of Clawson and Chavis's lifetime. 5 SEC teams are in the top 25 recruiting. These are the players we will face in 2009 and 2010. Pound something.

Posted by icecream on January 31, 2008 at 9:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Take the money and run kid. It's a jungle out there.

Posted by volchamp on January 31, 2008 at 9:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)

all i remember is..
Crompton lowering his shoulder in Knoxville and steamrolling some DB from LSU. Kids got guts and he threw a couple TDs in that game.

Bottom line it will be different, but I cant wait to see it.

Posted by NJVol on January 31, 2008 at 10:07 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Geoff,
I went to Morris Knolls and now live in Livingston. Are you in NJ?

Posted by ATLVOL1 on January 31, 2008 at 10:07 a.m. (Suggest removal)

VOLCHAMP, IM NOT LOOKING AT THE CLIP BUT I REMEMBER THE LSU PLAYER STUFFING CROMPTON AT THE LINE ( ALI HIGHSMITH ) AND CROMPTON JUMPING UP PATTING HIS CHEST LIKING THE CONTACT ( FAVRE DOES THAT ). i THOUGHT IT WAS RETARDED AND HAVE DEEMED HIM "THE SPAZ".

HIS 2 TDS WERE PRAYERS TO MEACHAM IN TRIPLE COVERAGE.

IM ALL FOR THE VOLS AND FOR OUR BOYS HAVING SUCCESS, BUT SAYING CROMPTON IS A STARTER BECAUSE HES A REDSHIRT JUNIOR AND A EX 5* RECRUIT IS DUMB.

Posted by GerryOP on January 31, 2008 at 10:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I would think that with a new OC it would be a little bit more of an open competition for the starting QB spot. I am sure Clawson told that to Kelly with a fairly straight face because that is how Clawson sees it. However, Good Ol' Phil's presence will propagate the traditional Sr/Jr/So/Fr peckin' order system -- at least at the beginning of the season. We will probably get the chance to see just how good Crompton really is. Hoping for the best!

Posted by wrvlvolfan on January 31, 2008 at 10:30 a.m. (Suggest removal)

ATLVOL1, Crompton very well may have been stuffed at the line during the 06 LSU game. I missed part of the game. The play volchamp referred to happened when Crompton ran through the left side of the line. The LSU DB was about 5 back. Crompton doubled him up and knocked completely off his feet. I'll guarnatee you he remembers Crompton.

Posted by sjt18 on January 31, 2008 at 10:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)

JC has been the back up in an offense designed around Ainge's strengths.

Don't write him off or declare it his job.

As far as the caste system, Moore was #3 at the end of August last year. Creer was #2 for most of the season. Berry started right away. Dan Williams passed Mapu.

UT favors the older players and maybe a little more than most but there is still opportunity to pass guys if you earn it. If Clawson tells CPF that Coleman or Stephens is the guy rather than Crompton then I doubt he'll be told no. But they'll have to earn it whereas JC starts out with an advantage because of "paying his dues".

Posted by pdhuff on January 31, 2008 at 11 a.m. (Suggest removal)

GerryOP 8:04 - Seem like I remember Jim Bob Cooter lettering in other things. Escapes me now.

Posted by TommyJack on January 31, 2008 at 11:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)

If Coach Clawson is truly to be his own man, maybe others will be given a REAL chance at the QB slot. OTOH, maybe Crompton IS the man. Was hard to tell with Cut's caste dogma. I've heard from others (not just Nooga people) that the Coleman kid is for real. I say let the best man win and forget about promises made to parents, a la Cutcliffe, Fulmer, Mack Brown, et al. Let'em dook it out for starter's slot. BTW, anyone that thinks Crompton got a fair shake at getting games snaps this past season is delusional. If he couldn't get snaps with Ainge hurt with pinkie, shoulder, then he wasn't destined to get any real chance to get snaps. Hope that mentality has moved on to Dook.
Lastly, for those that say an injured Ainge was our "best chance to win", I say Cut & CPF had NO confidence in other OB's.

Posted by ATLVOL1 on January 31, 2008 at 11:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)

YEAH A INJURED AINGE PLAYED 99% OF THE SNAPS AND EVEN G JONES CAME IN TO RUN INSTEAD OF J-CRO.

IF J-CRO DRILLED AN LSU D-BACK THEN THATS ((AWESOME)), BUT I GUESS I MISSED IT.

WE ARE RECRUITING ABRAMS WARD AS A QB/RECIEVER B/T/W

CHECK THIS OUT:

“Which one will give me the better chance to fulfill my goal to play in the NFL?” Abrams-Ward said.

Both schools are recruiting Abrams-Ward as an athlete with an emphasis on offense, particularly quarterback and wide receiver.

On Wednesday night, both schools had what appears to be their final in-home visit until Signing Day.

Butch Davis held his lone allotted in-home visit with Abrams-Ward last week.

“He just wanted to reassure what all the other coaches have been saying: the opportunity for me to play early, the asset I would be to the team, the team is hungry, and the goal isn’t to be mediocre and settle for mid-way, they want to be No. 1,” Abrams-Ward said. “They’re trying to win. They’ve got a goal and Butch Davis is trying

Posted by GerryOP on January 31, 2008 at 12:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

pdhuff, maybe! But, did Ol' Jim Bob have enough playing time to earn a letter in football?

Posted by sjt18 on January 31, 2008 at 12:29 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Marcus Davis sounds very similar to Abrams-Ward in size and athleticism.

JC did run over a CB btw. In fact, he was kind of off balance after coming out of a spin when he did it. I'm pretty sure that guy got drafted.

Do you have proof that CPF or any UT coach promises parents that their kid will start?

JC came to UT KNOWING that he had Ainge and Schaeffer in front of him. Spurrier supposedly told him that he probably would start at USC. I doubt anyone had to promise him anything other than an opportunity to get him to K'ville.

Part of his problem with Cut and putting out effort for him *may* have been that he really didn't get a fair shot to beat Ainge out in 06. Some at the time were reporting that JC was pushing Ainge alot more in every respect than expected and had outperformed him frequently.

Posted by marc_ash on January 31, 2008 at 1:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

ATLVOL1, Although I am a huge Coleman fan, I do like Crompton too. You are correct, he won't start just because he is a former 5 star guy. But he will start because he is the most ready on the team.

I think Crompton did sub-par in his "fill in" time as you say because he was running a system designed for Ainge. Hard to run a team with little playing time as a mobile guy if you are running the system of a drop back passer.

I think with the addition of Clawson, Crompton is the most prepared guy for the system. Coleman is more of a passer than Crompton IMO. Least thats the verdict on the guy. Cut hand picked Coleman for his system, but now Cut is gone and I think Crompton fits the mold.

NOw.....as I think about this, things get interesting....MAYBE Kelly is more important than people think. Yesterday, I was thinking more about Kelly's perspective, but why would the Vols spend a scholarship on a QB having 3 quality guys in the wings (Nick, BJ and JC). I WONDER if there is a possibility that Kelly was "hand picked" by Clawson to succeed JC. Just a thought...strange how things have unfolded.

Posted by marc_ash on January 31, 2008 at 1:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

ATLVOL1,

can you post either the article itself or the link for those Abrams-ward comments. I want to take a look at everything he said in it if you don't mind.

Thanks.

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

Based on the comments I have read on Abrams-Ward IMO he is HEAVILY leaning to Tennessee. Let me rephrase that, he isn't leaning heavily to NC.

It seems that AW wants to play now and showcase his talents. Tennessee is in a better spot than NC is and AW knows it.

AW's comments end with him saying "They’re trying to win. They’ve got a goal and Butch Davis is trying". (Don't know if this is all of the quote, but the fact that AW said NC is 'trying' to win says much more than they 'are' winning). IMO AW has made up his mind where he wants to go.

I think he will be a Vol.

Posted by sjt18 on January 31, 2008 at 1:22 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I hope you ARE right this time.

Can you read those tea leaves and tell us what position he'll play?

Posted by ATLVOL1 on January 31, 2008 at 1:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

MARC...THIS IS ENRIQUES DAVIS APEAKING...DO YOUR ANALYSIS:

What stood out the most about Enrique's Oregon visit?

"Just how crazy the fans were at the basketball game. They put the spot light on me in the stands and the whole dome starting chanting my name. I stood up and help up a "Go Ducks" sign and they all went crazy. And that is at a basketball game. Imagine how it would be at a football game. It would be way crazier than that."

And Ole Miss' visit?

"I just liked how I got along with the players. They treat you like you are already a part of the team, like your boys you grew up with back home, like they knew you for ever. Coaching wise, I get a long with them real good. All of them are cool."

What about Auburn's visit?

"I know everybody at Auburn. I know every player on that team. I have built a good relationship with Coaches (Eddie) Gran, (Tommy) Tub, and Ensminger. I have been talking to those guys since my junior year."

What stands out about Tennessee?

"I like their staff. I like Coach Fulmer a lot. Coach Chavis has recruited me since my junior year. And their new running back coach, Coach Drayton, came over from Florida. I had a good relationship with him when he recruited me out of high school."

Davis had a few more thoughts about the running back coaches who are recruiting him.

"Another thing I like about Ole Miss is that I think their staff is going to be a great staff. Coach Nix (Ole Miss) came from the (Atlanta) Falcons, so he knows what it takes to get there. And Coach Gran (Auburn) has put out some good RB's in the league. Oregon has sent so many RB's to the league, very impressive. And Maryland has a good RB coach too."

Will Davis visit Maryland before making a decision?

"I am thinking about visiting them the weekend after signing day if I have not made up

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

NJVol.

I live in Tennessee now. I'm up there regularly. I have a seminar up there (Pompton Plains) next month. I'm old (class of '71) but had plenty of friends from Morris Knolls. Seems like a couple of Maryville College guys in the 70's were from Morris Knolls. What year did you graduate?

Posted by marc_ash on January 31, 2008 at 1:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)

ATL, I posted my thoughts on the other link...check it out.

SJT, I hope I'm right too. But I hope I'm wrong about Davis. We'll know soon.

Posted by sjt18 on January 31, 2008 at 1:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

He hasn't visited UT yet except for the JV game. That apparently gave him a good enough impression that he scheduled UT on the Saturday before NSD.

I'd be interested in your analysis of his interview after this weekend. There should be something on Rivals or Scout almost immediately. KNS will probably have a story sometime around Presidents Day.

Posted by sjt18 on January 31, 2008 at 1:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)

BTW, As much as I'd like to have E Davis, I think Poole is vastly underrated and has a chance to be very special for the Vols.

Posted by sjt18 on January 31, 2008 at 1:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Woops... the caveat to that is that Coples, Davis, and maybe even Mackey could come to UT as a package. They really need to impress him.

Posted by sjt18 on January 31, 2008 at 2:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)

TDTN, any chance UT gets the DL (Henderson I think) that CPF's been trying to steal from Auburn?

sphs' defections have to come from somewhere, right?

Posted by FWBVol on January 31, 2008 at 2:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

People are forgetting that Condredge Holloway also was a great baseball player at UT. He was an All-SEC shortstop and the Expos, I believe, made him a pretty high draft pick (first three rounds). Former UT defensive end was a beast in high school in baseball and tried to play for the Vols, but did't make it on the diamond.

The days of a Ron Widby type coming around any longer are just about none. In the 1960s an athlete could play several sports without a lot of overlap in the seasons. Now you have fall baseball and spring football, both of which are important to the respective sports.

Unless a guy is an exceptional talent in football, I don't see him winning the starting quarterback job with just the summer workouts and a few weesk in preseason drills. I think a running back, linebacker or DB would have the best shot of being successful at both.

As I posted yesterday though, if Kelly comes in and never plays much in football, but helps the baseball team win, I think it will be good use of a scholarship.

This also shows that CPF is willing to work with new baseball coach Todd Raleigh and that might pay off down the road for other baseball/football prospects if Raleigh can work some magic on the diamond.

Posted by tngeoff on January 31, 2008 at 2:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Questions about Crompton?

Vols' Crompton prepares to start at Arkansas if needed

11/08/2006

By ELIZABETH A. DAVIS / Associated Press

Tennessee's Jonathan Crompton threw two long touchdown passes and made a big hit — literally — in his first significant playing time at quarterback.

Crompton, a highly touted high school player from North Carolina mentored by Heath Shuler, played most of last week's game against LSU in place of injured starter Erik Ainge.

The redshirt freshman entered the game in the second quarter and went 11-of-24 for 183 yards and touchdown completions of 37 and 54 yards to Robert Meachem. The No. 13 Volunteers, who travel to No. 11 Arkansas on Saturday, lost 28-24 after LSU scored on its final drive.

Crompton's first series went nine plays and covered only 29 yards, but he got 11 of those yards the hard way. On third-and-6, he took off for an 11-yard run, which ended with Crompton leveling LSU's LaRon Landry, one of the best safeties in the Southeastern Conference.

"I was running. I didn't really see him coming, but then he just kind of popped up on me and I hit him," Crompton said, apparently not as excited about the play as his teammates.

Nuf' said?

Posted by NJVol on January 31, 2008 at 3:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Geoff,
I Graduated from Knolls in 92.

Posted by tngeoff on January 31, 2008 at 3:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

NJVol.

You're a youngin'. Were you there when Randolph set the State record for undeated football team (since broken)?

Did you wrestle or play football at MK? Strong sports school. like Randolph.

Posted by NJVol on January 31, 2008 at 4:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Geoff,
I was there. MK almost ended that streak a few times. Mike Groh was the quaterback.
I played baseball-State Champs in 91!

Posted by wrvlvolfan on January 31, 2008 at 4:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Good post tngeoff. Like I said, Crompton's a stud.

Posted by pdhuff on January 31, 2008 at 4:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)

GerryOP - Jim Bob got a letter for quality time and ranked # 1 in fan support. Believe he had a TD pass.

Posted by tngeoff on January 31, 2008 at 5:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)

wrvlvolfan.

Thanks and agreed. He should be exciting.

NJVol.

Almost! Mike Groh was great! Pretty famous Father too. Those Randolph teams were coached by John Bauer Jr. His Dad (very tough disciplinarian) was my coach (missed Junior and senior years football - operations). There was supposed to be a TV movie made about him and his cigar smokin' hard nosed football success. Congratulations on the State Championship Bro'! Jersey ahs great baseball too! Feel free to e-mail me sometime at tngeoff@hotmail.com Jersey power!

Posted by utmdm on January 31, 2008 at 5:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

PD, I think the new pound is an old school - "Pound the pavement." Obviously we have not done that effectively this year in recruiting.

Posted by pdhuff on January 31, 2008 at 6:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

utmdm- 5:20 -True, but you'll get some spin on a statement like that.We pounded the bowl game. I just wish we had more Southern kids coming instead of one in the AJC Top 100. Just a thought.

Posted by TommyJack on January 31, 2008 at 7:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)

PD: True. Me too. Wonder why we don't? Just bad luck I guess. Gonna go back to glazed. On a diet.

Posted by VolnFlorida on February 1, 2008 at 8:19 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I will be shocked if this kid makes it to UT for football. In my opinion, UT football is a safety net if they do not like his position in the baseball draft. GO Giants!

Posted by db11_cn on February 1, 2008 at 9:34 a.m. (Suggest removal)

In 2004, a kid named Mike Rozier, a lefthanded quarterback/pitcher from somewhere in Georgia maneuvered his way into a football/baseball scholarship arrangement at U. of North Carolna identical to the UT deal we appear to have now. His reason for doing so was solely to enhance the amount of dollars he could negotiate for a baseball bonus. In '04, it was permissable for a MLB club to sign a draft choice for a much-higher-than-slot-money contract if the prospect was signed to a football scholarship at a D-1 school (actual terminology was full scholarship in another sport -which usually was only football at D-1). The language allowed MLB to extend the bonus money over a larger number of years, thus offer bigger bucks but spend fewer dollars per year.

Unless this has changed, Kelly has positioned himself perfectly to take advantage of the opportunity to receive a higher signing bonus. Obviously there are very few athletes who fit this category, but those who do only need to find an accomodating college (i.e. a school with a low number of commitments and some scholarships to give). Rozier was drafted and signed by the Red Sox and received a better package than he likely would have earned otherwise. He never stepped on campus at Chapel Hill.

If Kelly has a brother and father who are both in the world of minor league baseball, you can bet THEY know of this advantage.

Posted by pdhuff on February 1, 2008 at 12:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)

VolnFlorida 8:19 - True- When is the BBall draft? He may never set foot on a football field.

Wish he was a slow 6'5" 303 DT.

Posted by utkjoe29 on February 1, 2008 at 8:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)

This is becoming old news but thought this was interesting if it already hasn't been posted.

http://www.heraldtribune.com/article/...