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For the first time in four years, Tennessee won't have Erik Ainge at quarterback.

For some, that's a good thing. Some may worry about a player with just one career start handling games against UCLA, Florida and Auburn in September.

But after spring practice one thing is readily apparent: Crompton is ready to be a starter.

And any comparisons to Ainge, UT's primary starter for four years and a fifth-round draft pick of the New York Jets, just don't work.

"Jonathan can't worry about trying to be Erik or trying to be someone else," says first-year offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Dave Clawson. "I think Jonathan's strengths are different."

For one, Crompton is faster and more athletic than either Ainge or his predecessor, Casey Clausen. Crompton also has shown a willingness to absorb a hit, and his athleticism allows him to create space and let plays develop or even tuck the ball and run for a few yards here and there.

Still, Crompton's first spring practice as the unquestioned starter wasn't without a few bumps in the road. At times, he struggled with decision-making and accuracy. The result was five interceptions in UT's first three scrimmages.

Surrounded by an athletic group of receivers, a talented backfield and an offensive line that excelled in pass protection last season, Clawson wants to make sure Crompton doesn't press for a knock-out blow on every single snap.

"We need to do things that he can be good at, and he needs to make good decisions," Clawson said. "He's going to make plays. He's got outstanding arm strength. He's a good athlete. He can create space for himself. I think his challenge is he doesn't have to win every game on every play."

So far, Crompton seems to be learning the lesson.

In the Orange and White Game, Crompton had his best showing so far, completing 13 of his 20 passes for 266 yards, three touchdowns and only one interception.

After taking about a month off to rehab from minor elbow surgery, Crompton has been working with his receivers in 7-on-7 drills this summer in preparation for the start of camp in August.

According to wide receiver Josh Briscoe, Crompton hasn't wasted any time making sure UT's offense is prepared for the fall.

"He's demanding a lot from this group, from this receiving corps," Briscoe said. "He's ready to play. He's waited three years, and now it's his time to play."

Behind Crompton, junior Nick Stephens and redshirt freshman B.J. Coleman will jockey for the backup job. Neither distinguished himself during spring drills and both have strides to make in game-management before the season-opener at UCLA on Sept. 1.

That's when Crompton will officially step into the spotlight, and Clawson - like plenty of others - is eager to see what Crompton will do.

"Jonathan Crompton is certainly a guy that I'm very excited about," Clawson said. "I enjoy working with him. He puts a lot into it. I think from the decision-making standpoint, he's improved. And I think as he gets more and more reps with the offense, that that part will only get better."

Drew Edwards covers University of Tennessee football. He may be reached at 865-342-6274.

© 2008, Knoxville News Sentinel Co.