Posted by anthony on March 19, 2008 at 9:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

ATTENTION THE NEW BRUCE PEARL IS NOW IN TOWN!!

Posted by TopperVol75 on March 19, 2008 at 9:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Step #1: Players respect their coach and buy into a new system.
But everything is "opposite of what we were supposed to do?" Playcalls, technique or what? That one is kind of scary, or maybe not.

Posted by sjt18 on March 19, 2008 at 9:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

How many people have been guilty of saying there was no way that CPF would let Clawson control or change the offense?

Posted by VOLinDAWGland on March 19, 2008 at 10 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Not me bro...I always thought and argued on this board that that was a bum rap with no supporting evidence. I always wanted to get back to the style of O that Fulmer ran when he was the OC.

I prefer this type of change where you have some connection and continuousy to the past with new blood/thinking injected. Fulmer provides the link to TN tradition, Adkins provides continuousy to a solid and improving O line with everything else new and fresh. This combination should provide a solid chance for success...just hope the D can hold up their end. The D staff could use a little renovation as well.

Posted by LargeOrange on March 19, 2008 at 10:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Exactly my thought sjt18, I have heard so many haters talk about how CPF would not let Sanders coach, and now recently, I read how Cutcliff was the plexi-glass that allowed CPF to walk on water. Both are rubbish. Basically while I understand that our offense has been multiple and included many many plays and formations, it is been essentially the same basic playbook since Johnny was HC and CPF was OC till now. I can see the DC's in the league starting to sweat thinking that they really don't know what our offense is likely to do in a certain down and distance next year. I love it, this is just what we need and I can't wait to see it unveiled this fall.

Posted by Skibum165 on March 19, 2008 at 10:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I am guilty of it sjt18! I just want to see Coach Clawson calling the plays and not Coach Fulmer calling the plays with new jargon. It does sound like the squad is making long term improvements!

Posted by GerryOP on March 19, 2008 at 10:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Good news! This Clawson fella' may have a future in this coaching business! The only way a guy like Clawson can succeeed at UT is to insist on change -- finally -- and Fulmer to let him do it. Here's hoping for the best.

Posted by IPOrange on March 19, 2008 at 10:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)

LargeOrange, your point about other D coaches not knowing what to expect is a good one, and is exactly why I think a change was needed on offense. The Vols had become very predictable, and at times it seemed that the opposing team knew what our O was going to run before we ever snapped the ball. I am really excited about the new playbook and can't wait until September!

Posted by DennisVols on March 19, 2008 at 10:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

We wanted change, we demanded change and now we have our wish.
This is exciting and it will be hard to defend because it is different, with each defensive opponent, and it will be new to defend against.
Go Vols!!!!

Posted by cdldoc on March 19, 2008 at 10:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Phil, do you ever read the inane posts on this site.....I didn't think so, Coach.

Posted by IPOrange on March 19, 2008 at 10:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Our offense is on the move, and things are looking promising at this point. Now I hope our defense can make some adjustments and be able to defend the spread. This is where Stan Drayton can be of help to us, since he saw the spread up close and personal while at Florida.

Posted by 4114 on March 19, 2008 at 10:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Remeber....We must stay to course

Posted by LargeOrange on March 19, 2008 at 10:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I have posted before and still believe that CPF views Clawson as his potential successor. He said as much when he said while we were all waiting on him to name Cutcliff's replacement, something to the effect of "these are exciting times, we may be hiring the next guy when we make this hire". Next guy means the next HC. I think if Clawson and his crew can pick us back to where we need to be and win a couple of Championships in the next 2-5 years, then Phil can go out on top and have a claim to destiny when Clawson takes over and continues or improves on his legacy. I know it sounds like the kool-aid talking but it is spring for goodness sakes, anything is possible, and this would be the best case scenario in my opinion and within the realm of possibilities.

Posted by redneckerson on March 19, 2008 at 10:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)

cdldoc, that post was inane.

Posted by utchris2003 on March 19, 2008 at 11:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

My guess is that this will take a while to get all ironed out, but as long as it is by the first game, all will be ok. I doubt that much will be unveiled in the Spring game bc 1) more polishing will be needed 2) they will want to keep early season opponents guessing

Posted by givim6 on March 19, 2008 at 11:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Will we still sit on leads in the 2nd half?

Posted by Grim1 on March 20, 2008 at 12:02 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Posted by sjt18 on March 19, 2008 at 9:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

How many people have been guilty of saying there was no way that CPF would let Clawson control or change the offense?

THAT'S BECAUSE PHIL HAS NO IDEA WHAT CLAWSON IS TALKING ABOUT...He really has no choice now BUT to let Clawson run it.
Can you image Clawson trying to explain his offense to Phil?
I bet he has to talk REAL SLOW and repeat himself over and over.
or maybe he rewards Phil with a donut every time Phil gets something right.

Posted by Rebelsfball2008 on March 20, 2008 at 12:41 a.m. (Suggest removal)

for some reason i picture a bright light incircling clawson and angels singing the halleujah chorus right about now..i agree change is on its way..and he is a VERY big factor in it..but not every D1 coaching hire is the next BP or Urban Meyer..Trust me it will happen it may not be next week next month or even completely this season..but it Will happen and clawson will be the reason why...

Posted by chrisw2967 on March 20, 2008 at 1:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Grim , thats too funny

Posted by newtonrail on March 20, 2008 at 1:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Grim 1, You have NO idea what you are talking about. Fulmer has not only been coaching and preparing teams for a few years, but he does have his Masters Degree. Do you?

Posted by FWBVol on March 20, 2008 at 1:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Grim1,who helped you spell all the big words? Make no mistake about it, the reason Dave Clawson is changing the offense is only because Phillip Fulmer gave him permission. The last I checked PF was still the UT head coach.

Phillip Fulmer knows more football than most of us put together, and has probably forgotten more football than any of us will ever know.

Fulmer was the offensive coordinator during some of UT's best statistical seasons, and, as the saying goes, you can look it up.

Posted by eb502us on March 20, 2008 at 5:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Isn't it great to look forward to an offensive system that is designed to get playmakers the ball. Cutcliffe never did have a clue.

Posted by wjackson on March 20, 2008 at 6:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)

What an inane post Grim1. At least it's not Glome and Dome. I am excited about the upcoming season. I am in Maryland. It sounds to me like even the players think the new offense is better. Now Let's watch what CC does at duke. Will it resemble the UT of old?

Posted by foreverorange on March 20, 2008 at 8:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Even if Duke has a bad year it will still look like Duke had a successful season and made the right decision in hiring CC. what could the expectations possibly be at duke, the only coach to briefly turn that program was spurrier, and as we all know, CC aint no spurrier.

Posted by jweaver3 on March 20, 2008 at 8:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Maybe the BP parallels aren't so far out there!!!
The one thing Pearl does is get the ball to his playmakers in space and let them go. Playmakers want the ball and it sounds like Briscoe thinks he is ready to be a playmaker. I love it when players are excited, this could be the change we need!!!!
GO VOLS
TXVOLSFAN

Posted by HotlantaVol on March 20, 2008 at 8:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)

It's hard to keep my enthusiasm reigned in, but I have to keep reminding myself that we haven't played a single down against an opponent with this new offense. Nor will we until the UAB game. I wouldn't call Clawson the next Bruce Pearl until he proves he can win like Bruce Pearl.

How many of you have to manage projects in your work? Does everything ever fall exactly into place at exactly the right time to work as planned the first time? Of course not. There are too many variables out of your control. We'll just have to wait and see.

Posted by sjt18 on March 20, 2008 at 9:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Skibum, If CPF had actually been calling the plays, it is very doubtful the offense would have looked like it did under Sanders or recently under Cut. When CPF was OC, UT had a power running game coupled with a vertical passing game.

His O might not have been effective but the idea that he domineered Sanders or Cut just doesn't seem to hold much water. The closest thing we've seen to a Fulmer O was when he basically took the keys away from Sanders in 05 and began to try to re-establish the power running game.

If you remember, that's about all they did well that year on O.

Posted by sjt18 on March 20, 2008 at 9:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Grim1, Who brought Clawson in mo?

CPF has been in the college coaching business for close to 40 years now... I very seriously doubt he won't be able to "get" Clawson's O.

I know it is alot more convenient for folks like you to think CPF is stupid... but he isn't. You don't get to where he is if you are stupid. You don't have the success he's enjoyed if your are stupid...

OTOH, you obviously don't have to the sharpest knife in the drawer to post non-sense about CPF's lack of intelligence on GVX.

Posted by sjt18 on March 20, 2008 at 9:40 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Great post Hotlanta.

I am excited but at the same time Clawson's success depends on a lot of factors not the least of which is how quickly the players can absorb his system.

It took Meyer time to get UF converted to his system. Clawson's O doesn't represent that much of a change and he sounds alot more flexible than UM.... but it still takes time when you change things.

Grim1, to be fair with you, I think CPF had a lot of influence over this hire but it also looks very much like a Hamilton kind of hire. His fingerprints seem to be all over it.

Posted by waterskier3 on March 20, 2008 at 9:45 a.m. (Suggest removal)

GO Vols!!!! we'll see this fall how this all works out................... can't be as bad as sanders and coach cut was an upgrade but.... 3rd and short always seemed to confuse cut.... or he would call the opposing coaches and tell them what he was going to run... not sure which :):)

Posted by vol_in_lsu_land on March 20, 2008 at 9:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)

You know fellows, sometimes the comments are just SO STUPID and out of touch with reason that they aren't even worth commenting on. Maybe our resident football genius Grim1 can school all of us and coach Fulmer on his mad X-BOX skills on Madden Football '08. Gimme a flippin' break.

Posted by debaser11 on March 20, 2008 at 10:06 a.m. (Suggest removal)

What's happening on DEFENSE?

Posted by sjt18 on March 20, 2008 at 10:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Good question debaser11.

I'm sure once Adams and GVX finishes its series on Florida's players, they'll find space for an article or two. Of course they've only covered one RB and one OL so far for the Gators... so watch for something on UT's D sometime around the 4th... of July.

Posted by Hotllama2 on March 20, 2008 at 10:37 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm excited. I'm a loyal Vol fan and alum, but I grew up in Richmond and currently live there, my father played tailback at Richmond, and is a huge Spiders booster. He knows Dave Clawson personally, plays golf with him, and hasn't missed a Richmond game in years. I knew very little about Dave Clawson when we hired him. My father's reaction to the news was; 1) It was a phenomenal hire for Tennessee and 2) This was going to wreck Richmond's team. My dad is a Spiders fan, first and foremost, but is also a converted Vols fan, after writing all those tuition checks you kinda have to be. More importantly, he's a football fan. My old man says Dave Clawson is the real deal. He's a stand up guy, no questions asked, and one of the best young coaches out there. His offense is innovative, efficient, and the majority of his plays are designed to take it to the house. Everyone's got a take on the new offense, but I thought you might like to know a little about the man running it. Apparently Clawson is a true gunslinger, who has the passion and offensive system to reinvent Tennessee football. Time will tell.

Posted by VOLstuckINky on March 20, 2008 at 10:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)

same things were said in 05 .... time will tell.

Posted by foreverorange on March 20, 2008 at 10:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Dang Hotllama2...

now you got me all excited, too bad the season is still over 5 months away.

Posted by sjt18 on March 20, 2008 at 11:11 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Hotllama2, you seem to have personal insight.

Tell us more about the man. Some don't think it is important but in my experience the character, values, beliefs, leadership, personality, integrity, et al are just as important as technical competence, intelligence, creativity, etc.

I've been hoping that GVX would take this on for awhile now... but they are too busy watching police reports for UT news and AP wire for UF news.

Posted by vol_in_lsu_land on March 20, 2008 at 11:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Hotlama,

Thanks for the info. He does sound like the ticket to the future. It just really, really SUCKS that the Vol Nation is more preoccupied with useless, repetitive, mundane complaints about Fulmer than welcoming the new changes and taking a "wait and see" attitude. We *should* be welcoming this guy and fostering his success. Somehow I think, if it weren't for the great career advancement opportunity, he might not have even bothered and turned down the job.

Posted by jcvet on March 20, 2008 at 11:19 a.m. (Suggest removal)

How bout a Spring bonfire and burn the whole playbook. Would probably have to evacuate Knox County because of the toxic fumes.

Posted by General_Watermelon on March 20, 2008 at 11:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Fulmer needs to take the reigns away from Clawson before he screws up the offense. Fulmer should be in charge. We should go back to the way we were doing it. The old way won a National Championship in 1998. This guy is from the Richmond Spiders - LOL. If Fulmer reels this Clawson guy back in, he will be holding the Sears Trophy at the end of the year. Fritter Logic.

Posted by vol_in_lsu_land on March 20, 2008 at 11:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Bama fan, remind me...When was Alabama's last SECCG appearance? 1999? Seems that was the last competitive team Bama fielded. Talk when you have a trophy and can beat Tennessee more than once every decade.

Posted by va_vol16 on March 20, 2008 at 11:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)

we will see who phil wants to call plays when fla comes to town phil will tight a$$ it and not let clawson do his thing

Posted by spam247buster on March 20, 2008 at 12:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

What's "bravaro"?

Posted by Hotllama2 on March 20, 2008 at 12:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Like everybody else, I was hoping that The News Sentinel would delve a little farther into who Dave Clawson is as a man. I have never met the man personally, so all of this is coming to me second hand. Granted it's from my father, so I GUESS I'll take him at his word. In talking about Clawson, my old man truly believes UT could not have made a better hire. I don't want to make Pearl comparisons, however they seem to possess a lot of the same intangibles. Clawson is an affable guy, who was all over Richmond in his time here. He's a guy who goes to the grocery store and "presses the flesh," and gets everybody excited about football. When he got to Richmond in 2004, Richmond football was borderline horrible. He turned the program around completely, won two Coach of the Year Awards, and was able to actually get people to go to the games. He did a lot of good things for Richmond. They used to play at city stadium downtown, and no one went, not even the students. Pretty soon, they were selling out the games and winning big. His legacy will remain intact because he spearheaded the movement to build a state of the art stadium on campus. Ground was broken last year. Clawson is a great leader and mentor of young men, an innovator, a motivator, and a winner. I'll take it.

Posted by wjackson on March 20, 2008 at 12:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hotllama2, It kinda does sound like Pearl. Maybe whoever said mike hamilton had more weight in the hire was right. He sure made the right decision with Pearl. There have been a lot of rumors from people who have no idea about Bruce going to IU. However. As genuine as a person as he seems to be. I think he will be with us for along time. And I hope that Clawson turns out to be the same.

Posted by givim6 on March 20, 2008 at 12:47 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm very optimistic about Clawson, and I think Fulmer will let him call plays to give us game winning opportunities,

However,

Fulmer will not change his stripes completly.

He will have Clawson sit on a lead going into the 2nd half of any game.
That's always been a major flaw with Fulmer.

In games where we blew the opponent out, it was because we outmatched them so badly, that we could not keep from scoring, in spite of Fulmer pulling back on the reins.

Posted by sjt18 on March 20, 2008 at 12:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

iam4ua, In spite of having a good class this year, Bama is still behind UT in talent. You can handwring all you want... you can try to incite an argument all you want... but simply put- UT is much closer talent wise to the top of the SEC than Bama is.

This coming fall UT will be better than Bama at every position group except for possibly the DL. It's probably a push at LB.

If Clawson is as good as advertised and Chavis pulls it back together... get used to the same level of success you've had against UT over the past 15 years... it ain't changing any time soon.

Posted by sjt18 on March 20, 2008 at 12:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

givim6, I'm hoping you are wrong and CPF will continue to change his ways...

Someone needs to convince the guy that the days where you could sit on a lead for 2 qtrs are over. College O's are just too good and too sophisticated.

Maybe that was one of the things Clawson disagreed with him on in their interview?

Posted by DenmarkVol_aka_Mbumburu on March 20, 2008 at 2:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

"It's actually totally opposite of what we were supposed to do," Foster said. "How we do it now, if we did it then, we got in trouble. We're just unlearning what we learned. It's a bit unnatural for everybody, but it's going to be OK."

To me, this is good news. But I agree with the others who suggest we wait and see until a big game is on the line and then we'll know just how long the leash is in Fulmer's hand.

Not incidentally, for everyone who thinks Cut was a QB coaching genius, check out the lowdown on Erik Ainge from the NFL combine...
http://www.nfl.com/combine/profiles/e....

Posted by GoVol on March 20, 2008 at 2:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

sjt18 said "Maybe that was one of the things Clawson disagreed with him on in their interview"

No - Fulmer was trying to teach Clawson a cheer or two during the interview and Clawson wouldn't have any part of it.

Posted by sjt18 on March 20, 2008 at 2:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)

That's an entertaining mental image GoVol.

Posted by sjt18 on March 20, 2008 at 2:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)

That's an entertaining mental image GoVol.

Posted by givim6 on March 20, 2008 at 2:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)

sjt18:
If Clawson is allowed to call HIS game for FOUR (4) quarters, I think we can be an outstanding offensive football team!

Posted by BOASoldier on March 20, 2008 at 3:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)

mbumburu... the negatives are pretty harsh:DANG:

Negatives: Has a tall, slender frame, built more in the lines of a basketball forward than a football player...Has marginal muscle tone and definition with slender shoulders, but has a frame that can carry additional bulk...Displays marginal quickness on the move and loses accuracy when forced to throw when flushed out of the pocket...Does not have the speed to be a valid threat carrying the ball...Not the type of athlete that can play through pain and there are questions about his physical and mental toughness...Has good arm strength, but it is not always evident in his long throws, as he puts a lot of air behind those tosses and fails to place it along the outside shoulder of his target...Has an adequate feel for pressure and looks sluggish when sliding to avoid it...Lacks the loose hips to avoid the pass rush and does a poor job of setting his feet before throwing when flushed...Can put air behind his deep throws, but needs to step into those attempts better (will throw off his back foot at times), as he throws a lot of passes that are easily deflected due to low trajectory (had 51 throws deflected in 2007)...Has had a series of minor lingering injuries, raising durability concerns...When he stands in the pocket too long, it is because he fails to sense backside pressure...Must do a better job selling pump fakes; defensive backs don't usually bite...Needs to learn how to step up and out of the pocket, as his accuracy suffers on the move...Improved his foot mechanics as a senior, but when he fails to set his feet, he struggles with the follow through on his pass attempts...Will get into a rhythm where he misfires, but rather than hand the ball off, he will continue to fire into spots.

Compares To: KEN DORSEY-Cleveland...With his lanky frame, Ainge is in dire need of a weight trainer to add bulk and strength. He lacks the foot speed to elude pocket pressure and his accuracy suffers when forced to throw after being flushed out of the pocket. He is a precise short-to-intermediate passer, but even though he puts a lot of air behind his deep throws, he fails to place it over the outside shoulder of his target. Because of his slight frame, he has had a fair share of injuries, but he is slow to recover, making one wonder if he has the physical and mental toughness to be more than a clipboard holder at the next level, much like Dorsey.

Posted by vol_in_lsu_land on March 20, 2008 at 3:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The only cheer Clawson needs to know is how to sing "Rocky Top".

Posted by GoVol on March 20, 2008 at 3:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Chavis - come on...we need for you to have a defense this year! The better the D the more effective the O will be, and the opposite of course.

Posted by General_Watermelon on March 20, 2008 at 3:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)

As long as Fulmer calls the plays we will be OK.

Posted by invisiblekid on March 20, 2008 at 3:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Only thing I was guilty of regarding the Sanders era was believing Fulmer let it go on about two years too long. If Fulmer was a little more cutthroat, Sanders would/should have been gone after 2002. Not that any of that makes an iota of difference in 2008.

If everything is as advertised, I think the players will respond well to this new offensive philosophy and Clawson will shine. Most players want to "showcase their skill set" as opposed to worrying about their assignments on each and every play. If the defensive braintrust can address their weaknesses from the past couple of years, no reason to think the Vols can't contend next season for a title.

Posted by sjt18 on March 20, 2008 at 4:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)

iam4ua, you need to read more about what is going on before commenting.

Virtually every report that is coming out is saying a wholesale change is afoot... and CPF is supporting Clawson 100% in the changes being made. That might be disinformation... but if so, it is very well orchestrated.

Posted by orangebloodgmc on March 20, 2008 at 4:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hey, that scouting report thing about Ainge is not quite accurate. For one thing it says he was recovered from his broken finger this year in time to start the first game. Not quite accurate; it bothered him more after that, contributing to critical fumble in Florida game for one thing (did it happen in preseason?). Also it basically says he only missed one game the year before, the Arkansas game. But he also missed virtually all of the LSU game, playing only one wounded possession as I recall, so he "started" that game, but didn't get squat for stats.

If he is serious about an NFL career, he'll muscle up. Otherwise, there's a whole world of things to do other than NFL QB. Good luck, Erik.

Posted by GoVol on March 20, 2008 at 5:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I believe Fulmer has no choice but to give the offensive reins totally to Clawson.
If you believe Hamilton had a heavy hand in the selection of Clawson, then Fulmer has to let Clawson do his thing. Doesn't make since for Fulmer to handcuff Clawson if Clawson was hired to eventually replace Fulmer.

Posted by sjt18 on March 20, 2008 at 5:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm thinking along those same lines GoVol. I like ol' Fulmer. I think he gets over criticized sometimes... but I'm wondering if MH hasn't told him to get caught up or retire. After he retires, he can remimisce about the good ol' days when you could hold a lead with 3 yards and a cloud of dust all he wants.

Neyland would probably toss out Neyland's maxims....

When UF can put 31 points on you in 1.5 qtrs... or even USCe can make a comeback on you like they did... conservative is the most risky way to play it.

Posted by philfan on March 20, 2008 at 5:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)

givim6 at 11:40 p.m. wrote:

Will we still sit on leads in the 2nd half?

I have read articles about Clawson's offense and it was described as ''constantly attacking. '' I think the answer to your question is an emphatic, NO!!!

Posted by DenmarkVol_aka_Mbumburu on March 20, 2008 at 5:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

sjt18, that's one of the most insightful posts I've ever read on here. "Neyland would probably throw out Neyland's maxims." In today's game, indeed.

"Conservative is the most risy way to play it." I think you've summed up Coach Fulmer's innate, default philosophy rather succinctly.

Posted by sjt18 on March 20, 2008 at 5:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Thanks mbum. I'm usually kicked for being pro-Fulmer but I do see the flaws.

What it takes to run out a game is based on percentages, avgs, and math. What CPF took a long time to realize is that the percentages and averages have changed. A 21 pt half time lead isn't worth as much time as it used to be.

Posted by LargeOrange on March 20, 2008 at 6:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Stj18, as is the case more often than not, you are correct, in my view. CPF coached teams, have definitely had the tendency to take their foot off the accelerator petal way to early and it has cost us several times and almost cost us many more times. I don't think you should leave your key starters in the game too long when the outcome is decided, obviously to avoid needless injuries, but over the years we have had the tendency to try and run the clock out beginning early in the 3rd qtr and that does not work with today's offenses. A team can get back into the game too quickly.

Posted by LargeOrange on March 20, 2008 at 6:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I should add, especially when you do not have a dominating defense that can keep the other team's offense off the field in the 3rd and 4th qtrs.

Posted by givim6 on March 20, 2008 at 6:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Philfan: I agree with you wholeheartedly that Clawson is aggressive and has the right tools to "get er done"

But if past actions are indicators of the future, Phil will be pulling back on the reins in the 3rd Qtr.

Remember, no matter how good Clawson is, CPF is still his BOSS and that usually means conservative 2nd halves.

Believe me, There's nothing I'd like to see more than Phil "turn him loose"
for 4 qtrs.

Posted by GerryOP on March 20, 2008 at 8:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Fulmer will "turn Clawson loose." I believe that Hamilton's statement mid-season that Fulmer has earned the right to make his exit on his own terms was tantamount to the classical "behind you 100%" vote of confidence. Surely, Hamilton sees the same things that many of us do but he is an astute enough business person to know better than to challenge Fulmer in public. But, that does not mean that he has not discussed things with Fulmer rather frankly in private.

Never forget, upon his ascension to the AD slot Hamilton identified some rather specific goals that he expects his head coaches to accomplish. One goal was to win a SEC title every 5-6 years. The guy who moved to Conway, SC did not accomplish that -- he is gone. The baseball HC did not accomplish that -- he is gone. In the meantime, the other major sports are meeting or progressing nicely toward that goal. In the public eye, Fulmer is bulletproof and he justly earned that shield! But, those of us who have worked behind "boardroom doors" may have a sense of what has gone on between Fulmer and Hamilton in private. The "die is cast" and it is up to Fulmer how the story ends. Clawson will be given the opportunity to excel. JMO.

Posted by DennisVols on March 20, 2008 at 8:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)

A productive offense will be the biggest improvement to our defense.
If everyone remembers our two biggest defeats last year they both had one big thing in common.
In the 2nd half there were few if any substained offensive drives. Our defense was on the field most of the time while the offense failed to take more than a couple of minutes off the clock with each possession. Our defense was left to defend short fields because our offense failed to move the ball or even get a single 1st down on many drives.
Against UF Berry's interception for a TD placed UT in position to still be in the game. Then the defense makes a stop and we had the ball only to have a Ainge-Foster hand off to fumble and we never threaten again.
I for one am looking forward to an offense that won't be so predictable, that will spread out our opponents defense and take advantage of thier weakness instead of the other way around.

Posted by grvol on March 20, 2008 at 9:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Burn Cutsanders' playbook!

Posted by UTByrd on March 20, 2008 at 10:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Clawson is going to be the opposing def. co.'s worst nightmare. Look at he talent he has to work with. Running backs: experience and the explosion of youth. Receivers: raw but very talented. Quarterbacks: unproven but should click because...Offensive line: The BEST in the country.
DennisVols, you nailed it about the defense. A lot of people put down Chavis and his defense. They have been responsible for a whole heck of lot of W's but get blamed for most of their losses.
As far as Coach Cut, for all you naysayers, how many Div. I head coaching jobs have you had? Let's see, HC at Ole Miss, Of. Co. Notre Dame(bad heart took that away), HC at Duke, and long time Of. Co. for UT. I'd say that's not too bad of a resume.
Anyway, here's hoping the Vols go all the way in both tourneys and the football team exceeds our wildest expectations.
I'm definetly looking forward to an exciting year in Volunteer sports.
Go Vols!!!!!

Posted by kimzy1961 on March 20, 2008 at 11:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hey VOL fans!
How about helping a BIG ORANGE BROTHER out!
Click or copy and paste the link below and vote for awVols1985, the TENNESSEE representative on CBSsportsline's Member Mayhem contest! Let's keep UT in the essay tournament too!
Thanks for your interest and participation!

http://www.sportsline.com/mcc/message....

GO VOLS ! ! !

Posted by givim6 on March 20, 2008 at 11:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)

DennisVols: Your point is well made. If we had had a productive 2nd half offense last year, Our defense wouldn't have taken so much heat for their performance.

The ultra-conservative offensive play calling, whether by Fulmer or Cutcliffe, was the real culprit much more than any defensive deficiencies.

Posted by TommyJack on March 20, 2008 at 11:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)

DennisVol: You're right. Our offense last year was as predictable as a Lifetime Movie.

Posted by LargeOrange on March 21, 2008 at 1:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)

DennisVol and TJ(the real one): Very true, and in all honesty, it has been that way for a long time on the offensive side of the ball. Not to say the O has been that bad, but often predictable in certain situations. Often, in fact, even though the defense may have had a good idea what we were going to do, they still couldn't stop it, but many times they were able to. Prime example, look at the LSU SEC Championship game and the quotes from the LSU DB. He was just waiting for the pass knowing where it would be. I am looking forward to seeing some surprises that will keep the opponents defenses honest and off balance.

Posted by volmattna on March 21, 2008 at 1:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I will beleive it when i see it.Fulmer letting clawson call the plays.Clawsons gonna be creative and gona want to take chances down the feild. And get the ball in playmakers hands in space. And create mis-matches. Fulmer is still the same o fulmer scared to death to take chances. about as creative as a third grader. and continuously playing the older less talented player.It would be great if he turned it over to clawson but truthfully the chances are very slim. GO VOLS!!

Posted by GreerVol22 on March 21, 2008 at 7:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Listening to Clawson talk, lends me to believe he had his contract worded to say that the only call Phil can make is to go for it on 4th down.

Posted by 99gator on March 21, 2008 at 9:01 a.m. (Suggest removal)

who said y'all are only negative?

you have this clawson guy in the hall of fame already.

has anyone seen a richmond football game? does anyone have any real idea of what to expect based on something they have seen? chill out and give this guy some time....if he is like most other coaches.....it will take some time......even if the success everyone is hoping for takes place.

reminds me when urban meyer was hired. gator people were all excited and pretended like they knew everything there was to know about him and utah after watching the fiesta bowl game (utah vs. pitt). it appears that the hire has worked out, but no one knew anything about the man. in addition, it took three season's for his offense to blossom.

Posted by General_Watermelon on March 21, 2008 at 9:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)

TommyJack - you watch Lifetime movies?
You probably watch chick flicks too? Way to show that softer side.

Posted by philfan on March 21, 2008 at 9:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)

99gator,

Meaning no disrespect to the Gators as a football team, but the Gators did not blossom too well this last year. True, they did beat Tennessee last year, but they could not win the Eastern Division of the SEC and therefore could not compete for the SEC trophy. They lost four games last year and finished thirteenth last year behind the Vols. The Gators also lost the bowl game to a third rate Michigan team, being only two of nine SEC teams to lose in a bowl. They did win a national championship, but did so using a drop back passer. Since the spread was fully used, the Gators have struggled. Teams are rapidly learning how to defend against the spread. Also, watch out for injuries to Tebow, because they have occurred in the past and will continue to happen. This is because the QB is forced to run the ball like a running back much of the time.

Posted by philfan on March 21, 2008 at 10 a.m. (Suggest removal)

bflynn2,

I agree. One gets the impression that poor old Adams is hoping that Fulmer will lose soon so he can begin the Tennessee bashing. He reminds me of an hysterical woman who acts like every minor setback is a major catastrophe. Drew Edwards seems much more fair and balanced and Clawson seems to trust him. Edwards is entitled to criticize a Tennessee loss if he wants to but will not be so obnoxious about it.

Posted by TommyJack on March 21, 2008 at 10:17 a.m. (Suggest removal)

General Fritter: Only when I'm getting my hair done.

Posted by sjt18 on March 21, 2008 at 10:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)

volmattma, CPF is conservative in alot of ways... but when he was OC UT stretched the field and had a power running game.

I can imagine him telling Clawson that he had a blank check but that he wanted to be able to run the ball and throw down field.

Fulmer trusted Cut implicitly... that doesn't mean that Cut did it CPF's way.

Posted by douglasawilliams on March 21, 2008 at 10:41 a.m. (Suggest removal)

LARGEORANGE I do think your right about Clawson being a possible succesor to Coach Fulmer if he is successful at OC. CPF has already stated he would like to coach another 5 years. While many on this site would like to see him gone now I hope CPF can change the fortunes of UT football. While 10-4 and a bowl win against a decent Big Ten opponent isn't a bad year at all it isn't a top 5 program like we all yearn for again. While sitting in the south end zone watching Southern Miss/Vanderbilt manhandle our defense and South Carolina coming within inches of rallying from 21 down I thought maybe it is time for CPF to step down. But hope spring eternal and I to would like the Fulmer era to end with dignity and success unlike longtime coaches like Lloyd Carr faced at Michigan.

Posted by sjt18 on March 21, 2008 at 10:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)

99gator, Clawson could flop. A lot of us are excited by the things he's saying and the way he seems to be getting things done. After watching "Let's take what the defense gives under Sanders and Cut for so long", a guy that says "Attack, attack, attack" has an appeal whether justified or not.

As far as the transition goes, he's alot more flexible as an OC than UM. He's run virtually every scheme to include the spread option. He's made a career of customizing his O to the talent on hand. IOW's, his path from where they were to where he's taking them is shorter than UM's was.

Posted by sjt18 on March 21, 2008 at 10:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Philfan, I think 99gator will agree that it isn't the set that's going to make or break UF. While I agree that the spread option is becoming less of a mystery... UF still has incredible offensive talent.

You have to take their playmakers away. If I were a DC that would be in order: Tebow, Harvin, the new RB, the TE, then everyone else. I know Murphy and some of their other WR's are good but I'd try to force UF into their 4th and 5th options.

If UT's front 7 are good, they are in better shape than anyone in America at DB to match up with UF and take away some of their weapons. Harvin vs Goon Squad could be alot of fun to watch if the DL gives a credible effort.

Posted by 99gator on March 21, 2008 at 11:45 a.m. (Suggest removal)

philfan

the florida season went about as expected. the offense was a conference championship caliber offense, but the defense could not recover from having lost 9 starters in 2006.

i think one could only make an arguement that one game was lost due to offense. florida scored points against georgia, michigan, lsu. they either could not stop the other offense from scoring or get the other offense of the field.

the offense flourished in 2007. my hope is it will continue in 2008. but, in gator country, all eyes are on the defensive side of the ball.

Posted by 99gator on March 21, 2008 at 11:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)

by the way..... i find amazing parallels to florida's basketball and football team's in 2007. florida loses it's entire defense and was not a championship level team.

the basketball team lost its top 6 players from a back to back national title team and struggled.

and people have the nerve to act surprised.....

it was disappointing because of the year that was 2006.....but how could one really be shocked or complain

Posted by 99gator on March 21, 2008 at 11:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)

sjt18

i did not mean to suggest that clawson will not end up being great for tennessee. that was my basic point, i don't know. nobody knows. and i completely understand the excitement of something new....for fans and players.

i will make a guess about a couple of things generally based on what he has said. i would expect more big plays, positive and negative out of the offense based on what is being said. more completions downfield, more long plays, the possibility of 4 play scoring drives, etc.

but, also, asa consequence....more sacks, interceptions.

that is not a negative. with spurrier at florida, those things were true...... more big plays, but more negative plays.

Posted by 99gator on March 21, 2008 at 12:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)

sjt18

to be consistent (with regard to florida's offense), and i have said this before.....i don't care about the system.

run and shoot, fun n' gun, option, spread option, pro style, clawson's system, cutcliffe's system, whatever gus malzahn does, etc.......

it's about how good the players are and how well the coaches teach what they want done and do the players you recruit fit what you want to do.

eric crouch and tommie frazier were great college qb's.....who would never take a snap if they played for steve spurrier.

by and large, i don't fear systems......i fear players and coaches.

Posted by tngeoff on March 21, 2008 at 12:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Good.

Posted by LargeOrange on March 21, 2008 at 4:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)

douglasawilliams - I could be wrong, but I don't think CPF specified 5 years or any specific length of time, maybe you are thinking of Chavis, who said that due to the hostile atmosphere in CF today, he did not see too many more years left for him. I think CPF said he wanted to win another Championship and then go fishing on his own terms. For him to do that it will take Clawson to be very successful, which will lead him to the new HC post and CPF can retire with honor. That is the best case scenario for all concerned, imho.

Posted by kimzy1961 on March 21, 2008 at 5:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hey VOL fans!
How about helping a BIG ORANGE BROTHER out!
Click or copy and paste the link below and vote for awVols1985, the TENNESSEE representative on CBSsportsline's Member Mayhem contest! Once you get there click on the page 1 link to cast your vote. Let's keep UT in the essay tournament too!
Thanks for your interest and participation!

http://www.sportsline.com/mcc/message....

GO VOLS ! ! !

Posted by General_Watermelon on March 21, 2008 at 7:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Metro TommyJack. How about a hug big guy? Just kidding brother from another mother.

Posted by General_Watermelon on March 21, 2008 at 7:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

sjt18 - The talent level at Florida really is almost at an unfair advantage. These guys have had so many top recruiting classes back to back that the Vols will be fortunate to beat them in the next 3 years. However, we have Fulmer on our side.

Posted by ThurmondEppy on March 21, 2008 at 7:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

kimzy quit spamming

Posted by TommyJack on March 22, 2008 at 10:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)

General: Stop it you big silly!

Posted by ggriggs939 on March 22, 2008 at 4:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)

We all respect the General and the record his teams posted. But how many of you know that his philosophy (how many know what the term means?) demanded proper execution of the plays. He said that one play properly executed was better than 250 plays that were not. Thus his success was founded on the PLAYERS and the manner in which they executed the plays. There are some stories that some of his players would tell the defenders what they planned to do and dared them to stop the play. A major part of the time, they did not.
It takes a very high degree of stupidity to say that Phillip Fulmer does not know what he is doing. Recognizing the situation, we must remember that stupidity cannot be remedied; we just have to try to accomodate the condition and work around it.

Posted by General_Watermelon on March 23, 2008 at 10:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)

What's the most likely thing to happen next:
A) Fulmer wins a National Championship in 2009.
B) Metro TommyJack gets his hair done while watching a teary eyed Lifetime Movie.
C) No more UT football players get in trouble between now and the first game.
D) Lofton and Smith X3 catches fire and Tennessee beats Butler, Louisville, and North Carolina and goes to the Final 4.

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

"B" is a lock

Posted by kimzy1961 on March 23, 2008 at 7:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Real tight battle going on over here at CBSportsLine.com. Tennessee still trails Dayton by
1 percentage point in the tournament! C'mon VOL fans ! Let's get out and vote! Call your family, call your friends call any other SEC fans and tell'em to help! Let's take down the Flyers of Dayton. Surely there are more TENNESSEE fans out there than there are Dayton fans.

Click here http://www.sportsline.com/mcc/message....

If you have already voted, THANKS, and check back for the next round Monday.

GO VOLS ! ! !
GO LADY VOLS ! ! !

Posted by sjt18 on March 24, 2008 at 2:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

nafslov, why don't you take your non-sense over to the Trinity UCC of Chicago website for discussion. I'm sure you'd get plenty of support for hating the white kids over there.

Posted by Colliervol on March 24, 2008 at 2:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Good point sjt. I was wondering where there was a racist website where he could go and feel at home. Because nobody to date has ever agree with one of his posts on here. I'm thinking he's a devotee of either Al Sharpton or Louis Farrakhan with the twisted logic he continues to exhibit.

As far as I'm concerned about Clawson, short and sweet. Change is good. Bring it on Dave. Everybody needs a wake-up call every now and then.