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Lofton suggesting UT plays 'this game as if it's our last'

By Mike Griffith (Contact)
Originally published 09:15 p.m., March 20, 2008
Updated 09:15 p.m., March 20, 2008

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - The Las Vegas oddsmakers say second-seeded Tennessee is a 20-point favorite over 15th-seeded American University today.

History shows that No. 2 seeds are 88-4 against No. 15 seeds since the NCAA tournament expanded to 64 teams in 1985.

But as Arkansas coach John Pelphrey said after the Razorbacks eliminated the Vols from the SEC tournament last week, games aren't played on paper, they're played on hardwood.

Tennessee (29-4) plays the Patriot League champion Eagles (21-11) today (TV: WVLT, 12:15 p.m.) in the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex with the notion of taking every opponent seriously.

"We have to play this game as if it's our last,'' Chris Lofton, one of three UT seniors, said Thursday. "It's one and done, now.''

The Vols need only reflect back on their opening-round NCAA tournament game two years ago, when 15th-seeded Winthrop took second-seeded UT to the final second.

It took Lofton hitting a twisting, fade-away 3-pointer from the corner with 0.4 seconds left for the Vols to win 63-61.

"That let us know a 15 seed can beat a two seed,'' UT senior Jordan Howell said. "If not for Chris Lofton's shot against Winthrop, it's a different finish.

"That right there lets us know we can't overlook American.''

JaJuan Smith said the first game of the NCAA tournament is never easy.

"It's the toughest, just everyone nervous and everyone trying to make plays on both teams,'' Smith said. "So from that (Winthrop) game, we have been here before and done that.''

UT coach Bruce Pearl said he hasn't mentioned the Winthrop scare to his players; instead, he looks at more recent history involving the Patriot League.

"Bucknell was able to beat Arkansas, and they were able to beat Kansas,'' Pearl said, referring to the Bisons' wins over the Razorbacks in the 2006 NCAA tournament and the Jayhawks in 2005. "This (Patriot) league has gone in and in the first round they have competed, and American represents this league.''

Bucknell was a No. 9 seed when it beat Arkansas and a No. 14 seed when it defeated Kansas, but Pearl's point is well taken.

In fact, the first thing Pearl pointed to when the NCAA brackets were released Sunday was American's 67-59 victory at perennial Atlantic Coast Conference powerhouse Maryland on Dec. 22.

Former UT coach Don DeVoe, who coached at Navy in the Patriot League, watched the Eagles beat the Terrapins.

"You look at the score and think it might have been a close game, but that wasn't the case,'' said DeVoe, who coached the Vols 1978-89. "American dominated Maryland, really, from the first five minutes to the end. In the last four minutes a lesser team usually folds, but that didn't happen.''

DeVoe said UT should think twice before pressing the Eagles.

"The strength of the American team is their ability to really handle full-court pressure,'' DeVoe said, "and then they are very good when they get to the offensive end, really controlling the tempo, a lot of screening and a lot of misdirection plays. They are a very smart and rugged team.

"It would not be wise for Tennessee to think this will be a typical 2-15 match up.''

Shay's Take: UT assistant Jason Shay said watching American on film, he sees a combination of this year's Vanderbilt and Western Kentucky teams.

"A lot of the things American does on offense, the ball screening and movement, remind me of Vanderbilt,'' Shay said. "But they're not as big as Vandy; they're more like Western Kentucky size-wise.''

DeVoe's Key: DeVoe said UT can win by getting the ball inside where it has a size advantage.

"In terms of size in and around the basket, there is really no matchups that favor American,'' DeVoe said. "If Tennessee works on its post feeds and settles down and gets the ball inside, American will not be able to handle Tennessee.''

3-Point Bombers: Garrison Carr leads American with 129 3-pointers this season and is shooting .454 beyond the arc.

Lofton leads UT this season with 113 treys at a .398 clip.

Closet Vols: American's Travis Lay grew up a Tennessee football fan.

Lay's parents met as students at UT and brought him to Vols football games. His grandparents live in Chattanooga

© 2008, Knoxville News Sentinel Co.

       126 Comments

Posted by volintexas on March 20, 2008 at 9:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The DeVoe led Vols played American in the Vol Classic in the early 80's and were supposed to blow them out. American outhustled and outplayed the Vols who were toast with a few seconds to play when Gary Carter stole a pass and made an incredible shot to win the game.

Posted by rabidvol1998 on March 20, 2008 at 9:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)

volintexas - Gary stole it and shot it in one motion. All American had to do was throw it to the other end of the court.

Let's hope this one doesn't need a miracle.

Posted by cdldoc on March 20, 2008 at 9:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)

No wonder DeVoe is so afraid of them. Of Course, he is not BP. GO VOLS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by Cherokee on March 20, 2008 at 10:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

If I recall correctly, wasn't Carter's shot from around mid-court? I can remember listening to that game at my grandparents' house in Madisonville.

Posted by grvol on March 20, 2008 at 10:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Was TN in 77' one of those 2 seeds that lost to 15 seed Syracuse? It was so painful then I blocked it out. Can't remember the exact seeding.

Posted by EDis4UT on March 20, 2008 at 10:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

We SHOULD beat American by 20+ points - easily. We'll see...

Posted by murrayvol on March 20, 2008 at 10:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)

And Duke was an 18 point favorite over Belmont.

Posted by IPOrange on March 20, 2008 at 10:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Tell that to Duke University. They came within a frog's hair of getting beat by their #15 seeded component today.

Posted by bricker865 on March 20, 2008 at 10:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The shot was almost at half court (on our side though). I saw the highlight on the news the other night.

Posted by bmaples on March 20, 2008 at 10:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

For once, all the cliches are dead on. "Play each game like its your last" ... "One and done" ... "Take care of business"

And don't forget this one: "Finish."

Vols, if you get up 20, try to make it 30. Never stop, never slack, keep it going, keep it focused. Good luck!

Posted by mparker on March 20, 2008 at 10:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Dang IT!!
Belmont jsut couldn't come up with any offense on the last few possessions. I think the coach alomst outsmarted himself.

Can't stand Dook, never could.

Posted by EDis4UT on March 20, 2008 at 10:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Guys! American is no Belmont!

Posted by mparker on March 20, 2008 at 10:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

anyone else bummed so far??

I don't think a game yet has ended the way I wanted, but then I guess I've been pulling for the big upset.

Guess the Belmnt game will get UT's attention.

Posted by kimzy1961 on March 20, 2008 at 11:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hey VOL fans!
How about helping a BIG ORANGE BROTHER out!
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 kimzy1961 on March 20, 2008 at 11:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Or click on it!
Wasn't sure it would work till I posted it !
Thanks
GO VOLS ! ! !

Posted by rbatten9 on March 20, 2008 at 11:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)

It's time. - John Ward

Posted by angie200810 on March 21, 2008 at 12:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)

As a Knoxville native, now American U student, I am conflicted about my loyalties. Regardless of the results, I am thrilled that AU gets the opportunity to play a team of such great caliber.

Posted by Hunter on March 21, 2008 at 12:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Chris, don't play this game like it's your last.

Play the National Championship game on April 7th as if it's your last.

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

angie200810 - no matter what, never forget where you came from - You should cheer for the VOLS.

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

Angie, cheer for the Vols.

kimzy, where the heck do we vote? I went to that site and couldn't see where to vote.

Posted by chrisw2967 on March 21, 2008 at 1:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)

BillVol ,when you get on the site its already on page 2 you have to go back to page 1 and its on that page

Posted by anthony on March 21, 2008 at 1:31 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Go you guys, and remember that this team is nothing without coach Pearl. Ever since he got here he has been overachieving. Heck of a good job at it too. Didn't even have brother Wingate, that year, and then last year, look what happened. Beating the national champs twice, and ohio state, almost twice. Give him and us, and the team a break!!! We are winning our share of the games.

Posted by GreerVol22 on March 21, 2008 at 7:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)

If you guys set on your a$$ on defense then it will be your last. The Arkansas game was truly pitiful. No hustle, No hands up, No switching off on screens....etc

Posted by THE_VOL on March 21, 2008 at 7:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Hey Griff...when are you gonna do your job and report that 2 players are suspended for the first half today??? Yes one is a starter and although it shouldn't matter against this team it's nonetheless indicative of some of the "minds" on this team right now!

Posted by tlc429 on March 21, 2008 at 7:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Good mornin' Orange faithful and scrubs (you know who you are). In reading the above article, two things jumped out at me. The first was Lofton saying every game should be played like it's the last. Thanks for pointing out the obvious there Chris. Had the team adopted that mantra only one week earlier, who knows? We might've been a #1 seed. How about you and Jujuan concentrate on making baskets and not getting burned on defense and leave the math to us? The other thing I noticed on the board is the talk about the Belmont game. As a Knoxville bred Nashvillian, contrary to popular belief, only outsiders were shocked by the brilliant show of teamwork Belmont displayed. Next to the UT-Vandy mens and womens games played at *cough* War, the Belmont-David Lipscomb ticket is the hottest thing going here in Nash. They played their hearts out yesterday and I feel for them. They deserved to win but came up short.

As for us, if we go in half prepared, we'll get a whole whoopin'. I have no doubt in my mind American is drooling over having a shot at us. Chris and Jujuan we MUST have your offense and Chris said it best, "as a shooter, you always think the next one is going to go in". If he comes out cold on 3's, drive a little, take those floating 2's and possibly draw the foul, eventually the 3's will come. Jujuan has to play like he ain't scared. And lastly, we MUST make free throws. Having said all that, GO VOLS!!! ALL THE WAY TO THE CHAMPIONSHIP!

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

grvol -

Syracuse was the #2 seed, they lost to Richmond, '82-'84 ... I think.

American plays a style that has given UT some challenges this year, deliberate pace, strong guard play, good outside shooting (my nephew goes to AU, I have been getting some ill-advised smack talk from him!). If UT plays good D and works the ball inside, this should be an easy win. BTW, after watching several games yesterday it appears the officials, in general, are letting the teams play. This bodes well for UT if hand checks aren't called as tightly as they have been.

Go VOLS!!!

Posted by VolJunkie on March 21, 2008 at 7:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)

grvol -

mea culpa ... it was 1991, and it was the first time a #15 had beaten a #2

Go VOLS!!!

Posted by stroker on March 21, 2008 at 8 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Anyone know where to find the schedule and time for future games on KNS or anywhere please?

Posted by VolJunkie on March 21, 2008 at 8:03 a.m. (Suggest removal)

BTW, interesting article on JaJuan on the CA site ... amazing how much UT coverage there is in the local Memphis paper.

http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/...

Posted by VolJunkie on March 21, 2008 at 8:13 a.m. (Suggest removal)

stroker -

The CBS site is always good for schedules/updates. They also have a good online video player to watch games that may not be on TV:

http://www.sportsline.com/collegebask...

Posted by CharlotteVol on March 21, 2008 at 8:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)

volintexas - love the throwback post about gary carter! what a great player he was for us "back in the day"!

Go VOLS! Survive and Advance!!!

Posted by tlc429 on March 21, 2008 at 8:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Two of OUR players are suspended for the first half? Please tell me it's Childress and Howell?!!

Posted by stroker on March 21, 2008 at 8:34 a.m. (Suggest removal)

VolJunkie thanks buy unable to find Vol game time if they win D-- I need to know if I can play golf and watch the game. You would think KNS would have the schedule right on first line.

Posted by VolJunkie on March 21, 2008 at 8:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)

stroker - last I saw it was 2:30 Sunday

Posted by stroker on March 21, 2008 at 8:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Thanks VolJunkie I just called the station and thats what they said. WHere did you find the schedule.

Posted by General_Watermelon on March 21, 2008 at 8:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Too bad we couldn't take this attitude into the SEC Tourney or we would have a #1 seed and an easier road to the Final 4.

You can't over look any team or they will beat you in the NCAA.

Posted by General_Watermelon on March 21, 2008 at 8:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Belmont gave Duke all they wanted, however, I have been saying Duke was over rated all season. This was on prime exhibit last night.

Posted by General_Watermelon on March 21, 2008 at 8:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Mary Ann is innocent by the way. The pot was not hers. The guilty party has stepped forward.

Posted by arkyvol on March 21, 2008 at 9:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)

given the vol's history, lofton may be right.

Posted by spam247buster on March 21, 2008 at 9:45 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I've been hearing the same thing THE_VOL is alleging for WEEKS now, and nothing has come of it. I was worried that it was Tyler Smith when he didn't start in the SC game a couple of weeks ago, but apparently he didn't start that one because he was late to a 10am "shootaround" because of daylight savings.
I'm pretty skeptical about the "insider" tips about suspensions right now.
GO VOLS!!! Beat American U!

Posted by jcvet on March 21, 2008 at 9:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Start by playing defense which means not letting your man wander 10 ft. away from you while you watch the other team make a few passes on the other side of the court.

Posted by THE_VOL on March 21, 2008 at 10:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)

tlc429...you must obviously be one of the scrubs you refer to. Stop referring to anything TN as "us" or "OUR" cause you ain't playin, coachin, or probably even cheerin! and no it isn't Howell or Childress.

Posted by THE_VOL on March 21, 2008 at 11 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I am very interested to see if BP backs down on the two suspended players if game circumstances develop adversely particularly at one of the positions where we are not deep. I certainly hope he doesn't pull a FOOLmer. That said, time to head over to the arena! Vol fans it's time to get off your ass and on your feet and pray to God we don't beat!!!

Posted by dopedawg on March 21, 2008 at 11:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Duke is over rated. Boys, play with your head and your hearts. We love ya', win or loose, but we would like to see you win!!! Keeping up the faith!! Go VOLS!!

Posted by KingsportVol on March 21, 2008 at 11:30 a.m. (Suggest removal)

General_Fritter thanks for Mary Jane update.Go Big Orange.Beat America!

Posted by mparker on March 21, 2008 at 11:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Belmoont did what you try to teach kids NOT to do fromt the time they are about 8....they didn't stop the player with the ball on a break.

I hate that Belmont lost, but they really did not execute anything very well from 2 minutes in.

Neither did Duke, but Duke got the one big play they needed.

Posted by spam247buster on March 21, 2008 at 11:41 a.m. (Suggest removal)

So THE_VOL, if you're wrong about the rumored suspensions, then it means Pearl was just "backing down on the two suspended players"?
Interesting. You should consider a job as a spin doctor for Knox County politicians, unless you already have such a job.

Posted by Huntingdonvol on March 21, 2008 at 11:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Oh my read this story suggesting kentucky players need to be taking hgh and eating cheeseburgers its interesting reading the blogs to!http://msn.foxsports.com/cbk/story/79...

Posted by IBleedOrange444 on March 21, 2008 at 11:49 a.m. (Suggest removal)

THE_VOL -

Who are the two players suspended and how did you hear about it?

Posted by wjackson on March 21, 2008 at 11:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)

THE_VOL. You keep saying two players are suspended but you aren't saying who. Do you know? Seems like you are the only one? Where are you getting this from?

Posted by topgun on March 21, 2008 at 11:57 a.m. (Suggest removal)

THEVOL 10:55AM post & 11:00 post.

You scolded tic429 for saying "us" and "our" (10:55) yet , in your self-proclaimed widsom, you say "WE are not deep" (11:00). I am certain that it is coach Fulmer's fault somehow, but aren't you being a wee bit of a hypocrite? OK for you, but not OK for anyone else??

I'll say us and our anytime I want and don't need your two-cent protestations. By the way shouldn't get on your knees to pray. Isn't it a sin to be arrogant? We should get off of our "seat" to cheer for OUR team.

That said, while you are at the arena, I hope that you and thousands of our orange-clad VOL friends have plenty of reasons to get "off your seat" and cheer for OUR VOLS. Regardless of who, if anyone, is suspended, OUR VOLS will carry the day! I want US to win it all! Chris Lofton, and the article, made some very good points and I am proud of our VOLS. GOVOLS!!

Posted by IBleedOrange444 on March 21, 2008 at 11:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I think THE_VOL just dropped by to stir up some sh!t and then left the msg board. Oh well, like he said earlier, if two players are suspended for a 1/2 it shouldn't be the end of the world. We are one of the deepest teams in the country!

I hope Jordan shines today. He's playing in a familiar setting and I hope it helps him find his shot. I want to see all the Seniors go out on a high note and play well deep into this tournament!

GO BIG ORANGE!!

Posted by topgun on March 21, 2008 at 12:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Agree with you, IBleedOrange. Hope the seniors and OUR entire team do well. Game is about to start. Time to fire up the TV and the radio. GOVOLS!!!

Posted by IBleedOrange444 on March 21, 2008 at 12:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Enjoy the game everyone. I hope you aren't stuck watching it on the computer from your desk like me. Don't know why I even came in today. I'm not going to be doing much work!

Posted by grvol on March 21, 2008 at 12:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Syracuse a #2 seed in 77'? Don't think so. TN was. Syracuse was white and slow, King and Grunfeld fouled out and Darden lost the game in overtime heaving up 35 footers. Guess you weren't born yet Voljunkie.

Posted by grvol on March 21, 2008 at 12:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The American game is an embarrassment so far. Vols have no discipline. has Pearl lost this team? Green's teams were more disciplined. Keep Howell out of the GD GAME!

Posted by VolJunkie on March 21, 2008 at 12:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)

grvol -

Read my post ... you asked if TN was one of those #2 seeds that lost to Syracuse. I responded that Syracuse was the first #2 seed to lose an opening round game, NOT that they were a #2 seed in '77. I was at GMU in '77 so my VOL history does not go back that far.

Hope that clarifies my point ...

Go VOLS!!!

Posted by dma38256 on March 21, 2008 at 12:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Note to Bob Kessling: Do you think you could maybe sound a little disappointed when the other team scores.....I mean, you know, use a little negative inflection...? A la, John Ward....

Posted by bk555 on March 21, 2008 at 1:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

It looks like Ramar and Williams are the ones suspended for the first half..

Posted by VolJunkie on March 21, 2008 at 1:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

bk555 -

agreed, explains why Childress saw some minutes ...

Posted by VolJunkie on March 21, 2008 at 1:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Not an impressive half but I'll take the 7 point lead. Don't know what's up on the defensive boards, AU should not be able to rebound like that. Offense is looking better ... we'll be okay.

Go VOLS!!!

Posted by EastTNVol on March 21, 2008 at 1:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)

One and done if this is all Tennessee is bringing to the Big Dance!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by rootin4volz on March 21, 2008 at 1:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)

WHERE IS RAMAR? SUSPENDED? FOR GAME? FOR HALF? WHY?

Posted by richvol on March 21, 2008 at 1:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Sloppy,sloppy,sloppy...

Posted by DCSOvol on March 21, 2008 at 1:29 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Looks like somebody started reading their own press clippings. Time for an attitude check. These guys are playing like Tony Harris and Vincent Yarbrough are out there.

Posted by DCSOvol on March 21, 2008 at 1:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Dont even mention CPF's name in proximity with Bruce Pearl. Foolmore isnt worthy or comparable.

Posted by mdvolmom on March 21, 2008 at 1:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)

So not a charge!

Posted by chrisw2967 on March 21, 2008 at 1:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I wish CBS would stick their commercials ever 2 minutes , that makes a boring game.

Posted by GreerVol22 on March 21, 2008 at 1:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)

What is happening, they don't seem to care.

Posted by kceatherly on March 21, 2008 at 1:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)

This is disgusting. Why do we play so, so bad in the postseason?

Posted by chrisw2967 on March 21, 2008 at 1:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)

another game when we play down to the competition it looks like

Posted by overatedvols on March 21, 2008 at 1:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm pretty nervous. American is staying right there with us and it's in the second half. We were suppossed to beat these guys badly. They look as good as us, maybe better. Boy, it would be so embarrassing if we lost to a 15 seed. Those pesky 15 seeds. They aren't suppossed to be as good as us. We haven't beaten anybodly decidedly in a long time. Seems all games are 3 to 4 points are so no matter who we play and of course we've lost two of those 3-4 point games lately and almost lost the rest. I'm beginning to doubt. I hope they can pull this off. Everybody laughed at Duke yesterday and i'm afraid they will be laughing at us now. I know the Memphis fans are already rolling on the floor. It's bad.

Posted by kdt0725 on March 21, 2008 at 1:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Bruce Pearl needs to put a little discipline in his offense he can't allow them to do anything they want. It turns into street ball and that won't get it done. If we lose, his luster fades for me. An unacceptable loss if it happens.

Posted by richvol on March 21, 2008 at 1:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Why can't we pass the ball anymore...we look like a deer in the headlights.

Posted by GreerVol22 on March 21, 2008 at 1:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)

kdt, grim , but true. No excuse with this much talent. Too much I and no TEAM.

Posted by chrisw2967 on March 21, 2008 at 1:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)

looks like to me ,after the Ark lost that Pearl would have them more hungry and focused than what they are.

Posted by kdt0725 on March 21, 2008 at 1:47 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Greer im glad we're on the same page. Im not a skeptic, I tend to be pretty optimistic but this is just embarassing.

Posted by tnbanker_govols on March 21, 2008 at 1:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Lofton's suggestion of this being their last game may become a reality. Very, very, sloppy....unbelievable.

Posted by pupvol on March 21, 2008 at 1:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

makin american look like globetrotters.might as well come on home and forget it. EMBARASSING.

Posted by GreerVol22 on March 21, 2008 at 1:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Bruce, get a hold of your team buddy, this performance is as much on you as your players.

Posted by richvol on March 21, 2008 at 1:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)

It sure looks like we could just pound the ball inside and make it or they foul us. Why not take advantage of our inside men and get them in foul trouble?

Posted by GreerVol22 on March 21, 2008 at 1:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Well, sh!+. let Tabb or somebody foul that Carr kid or were gonna get beat. I would rather give him two free throws as a three every time.

Posted by tnbanker_govols on March 21, 2008 at 1:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I really don't like our chances in the tournament. The past few games have been.......well, too much like this one. Flat, no determination, sloppy play, stupid mistakes....sweet 16 may be all we get this year.

Posted by VolJunkie on March 21, 2008 at 1:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)

have faith, they'll be fine, though I still don't understand the lack of rebounding intensity.

Posted by kdt0725 on March 21, 2008 at 1:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)

GET THE F*** UP BOYS ITS GO TIME!!!!!! LETS GOOOOOOOO!!!!!

Posted by chrisw2967 on March 21, 2008 at 1:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)

well its for sure they are not playing with any heart and as for sweet 16 Im not so sure I would go that far yet , heck they might not make it out of this game.

Posted by richvol on March 21, 2008 at 2:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Basketball I Q is the problem. How stupid is a charge by Prince with Smith wide open. We miss Bradshaw so much.

Posted by kdt0725 on March 21, 2008 at 2:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I agree chris we get a nice 10 pt lead and they hit 3 straight 3s. No Tennessee sport does good before 3 pm. We like to sleep in.

Posted by VolJunkie on March 21, 2008 at 2:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Chism ...no, no ... yes!

Damn...

Posted by DenmarkVol_aka_Mbumburu on March 21, 2008 at 2:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)

We do NOT look good. Maybe we'll be good enough. Looks like all the pundits are right: guard play is our Achilles Heel.

Posted by DenmarkVol_aka_Mbumburu on March 21, 2008 at 2:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

We are getting outrebounded 32-17! With less than 4:00 left. Unbelievable.

Posted by richvol on March 21, 2008 at 2:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Tyler Smith and Chism seem to be the only ones sharp. Go inside.

Posted by VolJunkie on March 21, 2008 at 2:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)

richvol -

That's what CBP said they were going to do, don't know why they have not stayed with it.

Posted by VolJunkie on March 21, 2008 at 2:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)

richvol -

That's what CBP said they were going to do, don't know why they have not stayed with it.

Posted by GreerVol22 on March 21, 2008 at 2:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)

prince, damn man. They are free for a reason.

Posted by kdt0725 on March 21, 2008 at 2:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Think about the football team before 12....think about the football team before 3....think about the football team before 7...think about hte football team...at any time.

Posted by chrisw2967 on March 21, 2008 at 2:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Nice time for Lofton to go into a Howell like slump ?

Posted by 99gator on March 21, 2008 at 2:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)

winning is all that matters, but i am shocked.

they look like it's a scrimmage. i thought the SEC tourney was going to wake them up.

and their shot selection at times......if i were pearl, next time chism takes a 3, he gets a but chewing. so many other better options than a chism 3. (yes, i know he made it)

Posted by PLEASEGETRIDOFTHENOTSOSLIMONE on March 21, 2008 at 2:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)

get outhustled every play Vols.

Posted by kdt0725 on March 21, 2008 at 2:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Well that was fing huge. COME ON VOLS!!!

Posted by VolJunkie on March 21, 2008 at 2:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

TYLER SMITH!

Big game today, gets us to round 2

Posted by 99gator on March 21, 2008 at 2:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

everyone can breathe now

Posted by VolCane7979 on March 21, 2008 at 2:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

How are we getting mauled on the boards by midgets?

Posted by chrisw2967 on March 21, 2008 at 2:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

if they play like this in the 2nd round they will be going home , they havent played good since Memphis.

Posted by kdt0725 on March 21, 2008 at 2:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I think the lack of discipline in the offense is disturbing. It gets us in so many holes. It seems like he lets everyone do anything and its almost as if the shots dont fall the fallback doesnt go on Bruce, it's almost as if he can say the shots didnt fall as an excuse to keep him out of the blame. Come on Bruce, you're a great coach install some half court offense. It's our downfall. If we can't run and gun, we're doomed.

Posted by tenacjim on March 21, 2008 at 2:22 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I took off from work to watch this? I really thought losing in the SECT and getting "disrespected" by the selection committee would wake these guys up. This effort won't beat USA OR Butler WTFU!!!!

Posted by overatedvols on March 21, 2008 at 2:22 p.m. (Suggest removal)

This game was in doubt until the final 2 minutes. It should not have been. A two seed is not suppossed to have that much trouble with a 15. So far only us and Duke have almost screwed up. I thought we'd not have trouble till at least the second round but we had a tough game in the first round. Not a good sign.

Posted by kdt0725 on March 21, 2008 at 2:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

On the flip side a close win over a 15 seed could be a good wake up call for us. Needed possibly.

Posted by VolJunkie on March 21, 2008 at 2:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Still ... 30 wins, another milestone. Hope to see 31-35.

Posted by chrisw2967 on March 21, 2008 at 2:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Pearl better make alot of adjustments before the next game cause this performance will end your season.

Posted by tenacjim on March 21, 2008 at 2:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hat's off to American. They showed heart. 30 wins is nice but I would LOVE to get to some uncharted territory in the tourney (Elite Eight at least). This next game (either one of those teams) scares me.

Posted by richvol on March 21, 2008 at 2:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Why do we not value every possession. We act as if we will always get another chance instead of realizing that games turn on little things...mostly having to do with discipline. Since the Memphis game we have not improved at all and display this cavalier attitude. Jordan Howell is rushing his shot instead of setting up and taking his time. Prince must get in the weight room so he can stuff the ball. Any contested layup and they knock it out of his hands. Not a feel good win.

Posted by IBleedOrange444 on March 21, 2008 at 2:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Survive and advance baby!!! Got to tip your hat to the kid Carr. He played his heart out for American. 1 down 5 to go! Way to go Vols!

Posted by tenacjim on March 21, 2008 at 2:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Looks like there will be some upsets today. Gonzaga is going out and it's not looking good for Drake. Maybe Louisville will fall.....

Posted by GreerVol22 on March 21, 2008 at 2:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)

kdt...can i get an Amen?!

Posted by KingsportVol on March 21, 2008 at 2:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Posted by Ashley on March 21, 2008 at 2:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Midgets are neat!

Dang that's good stuff.Nice win boys.You will have to play from here on out.Go Big Orange!

Posted by overatedvols on March 21, 2008 at 3:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Vols are definitely in trouble. Better pay attention to the Butler/S. Ala game. I have a feeling one of those names is going to be in the Vols minds for years.
VolJunk, good move. Go ahead and change that name and let's pretend we don't know who we are.
You're just upset over the Vols performance lately so i'll forgive you.

Have a nice day :(

Posted by DenmarkVol_aka_Mbumburu on March 21, 2008 at 3:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The time for "wake up calls" is over. If these kids need a wake up call at this point, they're not asleep, they're dead.

We get outrebounded 37-25? We will NOT survive Butler if we get outrebounded and outhustled.

Man, we need a leader at the 1 spot. Can Prince do it? Tabb? I think the time may have come to give Howell's minutes to somebody else.

Thank you, Jajuan and Tyler -- we would already be one and done if not for you.

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

zander -

Just having some fun ... you have a nice day as well.

Posted by kimzy1961 on March 21, 2008 at 5:37 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! 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 givim6 on March 21, 2008 at 6:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)

We did play like it was our last game. Last games in the NCAA's are losing efforts.

Can anyone explain to me why a Center who barely shoots 50% uncontested at the foul line is allowed to shoot 3's as much as he does?

Granted, he makes a few and it's fun to see, but it is not good offensive basketball. I believe we would better off with Chism setup for rebounds.

In the end he would get more points and the team more rebounds if he's in the paint.

Posted by givim6 on March 21, 2008 at 6:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

SD beat Uconn!

Posted by General_Watermelon on March 21, 2008 at 7:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The way TN played today, it should have been their last. What has happened to this team?

Posted by overatedvols on March 21, 2008 at 10:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

VolJunk, i'm not zander. Just messing with you. Just wanted to make sure that was you over there.. not very smart huh. I don't post on the Memphis board.. just read it. Still, nice to know i'm smarter than you and ed has a 4 year urinary tract infection.
SEC teams dropping like flies.
Memphis showing you how to beat a team away you are suppossed to put away. Take note Tenn.

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