Posted by pearlific on March 21, 2008 at 8:29 p.m. (Suggest removal)

we've got to survive and advance. 34 for butler went off today 8-10 deep 3's and that's off the bench! we have to get in their face sunday!

Posted by JohnnyU on March 21, 2008 at 8:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Well, no one can say that BP is afraid to make personnel changes at a crucial point in the season. Feel bad for Jordan though. I have to say I was more concerned with inside defense that the guards, but maybe that's where the problems were starting.

Posted by BigOrange_supporter on March 21, 2008 at 8:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Survive and move on, one at a time!!

Posted by bshell12 on March 21, 2008 at 8:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)

J.P. only makes our pg play worse he can't pass, can't shoot, is far from being quick, and an awful defender, I just don't understand... maybe we should not worry so much about the pg and concentrate on playing good defense then the points will follow off of turnovers

Posted by Basketball_Jones on March 21, 2008 at 8:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)

He's a better defender than Jordan and causes matchup problems for other teams PG's. Jordan just isn't an SEC caliber PG. He had a decent career at UT but it's time to play the best players not the ones who been here the longest.

Posted by imw8n4u on March 21, 2008 at 8:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Why can't Lofton run the show some. He always makes some good dishes and can drive to the hoop. I know they like to free him up off screens and feed him, but if we're that desperate, give it to the senior leader.

Posted by utfpmd on March 21, 2008 at 8:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Need to play smarter and with more discipline!

Posted by bshell12 on March 21, 2008 at 8:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

why not tabb he played point in high school and he is an excellent passer and an outstanding defender, and has a good shot just has yet to show it cause he looks for his teammates

Posted by Silent_Fulmer on March 21, 2008 at 8:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Man, you want to talk about missing Dane Bradshaw....Were still better overall this year but damn I am missing that guy right about now.

Butler was ridiculous today. Hopefully our boys realize that our season is over on Sunday without a really good if not great performance.

Posted by Silent_Fulmer on March 21, 2008 at 8:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Man, you want to talk about missing Dane Bradshaw....Were still better overall this year but damn I am missing that guy right about now.

Butler was ridiculous today. Hopefully our boys realize that our season is over on Sunday without a really good if not great performance.

Posted by creepykev on March 21, 2008 at 9:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

When Prince was out there it looked like Tyler came out to the top to really play the point after Prince brought it up the court.

Posted by LargeOrange on March 21, 2008 at 9:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I am glad to know why CBP benched Ramar for a half. I am glad it wasn't disciplinary It is good to see that he sees that something is missing and is willing to shake things up a bit trying to find the answer. I hope he is not too late. Sorry Jordan, I was pulling for you, but this is showtime and you are not hot.
Vandy down by 13 now 7:15 left.

Posted by db11_cn on March 21, 2008 at 9:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Pearl is still building a team to compete for a Final Four berth. We have no true point guard until next year. Lofton is a great shooter but not particularly quick, thus not that big a challenge to shut down if you want to devote a man to him and offer no help D. on Tyler and JuJaun. We may be expecting too much this year from a team that is noticeably deeper than last season, but won a title in a weak conference. Vandy is on its way out (Shan Foster - Player of the Year? give me a break!) and exposed as way overrated. IMO, UT has been a bit too proud of itself since the Memphis game, and they can't shake it.

Posted by tigervol9802 on March 21, 2008 at 9:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

There are very few things Pearl has done that I strongly disagree with.....this is one of them.

I understand Howell can't hit the broad side of a barn right now shooting......but I still think he's a very calming influence out there at times.

With as sporadic as Ramar is and as foul prone as Prince can be....he better hope we don't need Howell again. He is officially finished.

Let the bashing of me begin.

Posted by DenmarkVol_aka_Mbumburu on March 21, 2008 at 9:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)

MAN, I like this coach.

Posted by bshell12 on March 21, 2008 at 9:22 p.m. (Suggest removal)

i agree tigervol howell is a senior leader i thought he played fine today and i am anti JP as you can be

Posted by williamshockley on March 21, 2008 at 9:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Keep Jordan on the bench, he has completely lost his shot. UT peaked at the Memphis game and has struggled since....I am worried about Butler

Posted by bshell12 on March 21, 2008 at 9:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)

everyone talking about jordan can't shoot can't do this, but when has JP hit a shot that wasnt a dunk i remember he got swatted at least 2 times today and he is 6'7 he takes it weak to the hoop like a little school girl

Posted by VolsAllways on March 21, 2008 at 9:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Granted Howell is cold as ice shooting, but he plays pretty good defense and handles the ball well, passing and getting assists. I could see Pearl using him late in games if we have a lead and need to play D and run some clock.

Posted by beachvol1 on March 21, 2008 at 9:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Just maybe the team that started the season can recover and show some intensity and actually shoot with some proficiency....not mentioning rebounding, which has been a joke as of late...Butler is the real deal, not another American...better get their act together quick or it's Knoxville bound!!!

Posted by dvols on March 21, 2008 at 9:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)

its a team guys, quit hatin on jp, he is a player, sorry vol fans don't know anything about basketball!

jp jp jp jp. who beat memphis? jp.

howell will be a great player off the bench and he will hit some threes down the road.

where is our head case lofton at?

yall need to quit hatin memphis and embrace the fact that we got a balla!

Posted by Ironcity on March 21, 2008 at 9:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I wish Jordan should play but the reality is he has earned his way to the bench. He is a TERRIBLE defender lost his shot and he is predictable on offense. Ramar at least can take it to the hole and defend. As for Prince, he is no point guard. He either travels or comes close to it every time up the court. If we do use him as a point we need to post him up against the other teams point. When Ramar is not in, just let the offense run through Tyler and Lofton. Good move Coach, I hope it helps. With Prince, it cetainly gives us someone that can fight through a screen and change a shot.

Posted by IPOrange on March 21, 2008 at 9:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)

It's hard to question Pearl's decision to sit Howell on the bench. What is he now, 0 for 2008? He may be a sound defensive player, but you have to hit one every now and then to keep the opposing D honest.

Also, opposing teams are getting way too many offensive rebounds. You can't keep giving them multiple opportunities to shoot and hope to go far in this tournament.

14 of 21 from the foul line looks better, though.

Let's go Vols, get mean on the boards!

Posted by dvols on March 21, 2008 at 10:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

seems like the sec east really did suk, go hogs and state.

vols now alone from the east.

how i like it.

ha ha ha ha ha

Posted by jr8657 on March 21, 2008 at 10:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)

U can put it on the board. Tennessee will be 2 and to the Bar-B-Que. Too many quick shots at inopportune times...today 10 point lead becomes 1 in 3 trips because of it. Not taking advantage of mismatches...just not bieng smart! Free throw shooting...again! The point guard situation will kill them, JP can't play a lick of defense...he doesn't move his feet...he's lazy on defense! And has absolutely no shot at all outside of an ally-oop! Ramar won't shoot outside of the paint. All I can say is good luck 2 the seniors in their futures!!! God bless u in all u do!!

Posted by IPOrange on March 21, 2008 at 10:16 p.m.

(This comment was removed by the site staff.)

Posted by Bigger_Al on March 21, 2008 at 10:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)

In BRUCE we trust! Howell isn't getting it done, and you can't have a basket-case running around out there as your "calming influence"...

I picked Siena over Vandy because a) Foster isn't so good outside of Memorial, b) Vandy was 1-3 against the Nos. 26-50 this year.

KY lost to a better (6 seed team). So did Georgia, plus they were gassed. Miss. State rocked. I expect Ark. to lose to IU in a close one.

Posted by jeremyinitalia on March 21, 2008 at 10:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The high expectations have caused Tennessee to play not to lose. It seems we lack that "something to prove" mentality that allowed us to jump on teams in last years tourney. I hope this attitude does not cost us against a very determined Butler team.

Posted by GreerVol22 on March 21, 2008 at 10:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

jp had a freak nite at Memphis. No doubt he is a solid, smooth player. his problem is he thinks he is much better than he is.

Posted by DenmarkVol_aka_Mbumburu on March 21, 2008 at 10:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

For all you guys arguing over Howell, he's not sitting because of a shooting slump. "Jordan is not a playmaker," Coach Pearl said.

The one spot is the electricity, the catalyst, the guy who makes things happen. The one isn't supposed to score a lot in this system. Points are supposed to come from the 2-5 spots -- with the one being the spark plug.

Ramar's way of doing that is taking it to the hole -- strong but sometimes out of control.

We've made a huge amount of progress from just a couple of months ago. Remember how we were all fretting about free throws? Rebounding (today's abysmal performance notwithstanding?) Our inside game?

Nevertheless, it doesn't look like this is our year -- based on the last three games. Next year, we'll be rebuilding around Tyler, JP, Wayne and Duke -- maybe Williams, Tabb, Tatum and even Jurick and Woolridge.

Nothing but upside for Vols hoops, boys, whatever happens these next few days. We gotta be proud of them.

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

Not a good time to be experimenting with things IMO. Hope we didn't peak too early. I guess we'll find out Sunday. Butler will be very hard to beat and we lose if we do not bring our "A" game..

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

Jordan Howell is the worst basketball player I have ever seen at the University of Tennessee, and that's saying a lot. Howell would be picked last in 5th Grade pickup game. Howell is 4 for his last 41 from the field. Thats less than 10 percent. Anyone on this thread can shoot at least ten percent. Everyone can look at the positive though, if we lose on Sunday at least we never have to see Jordan Howell again!!

Posted by ReallyAVolFan on March 21, 2008 at 10:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I know those of you who watch closely know we peaked at Memphis! I only hope we can regain that focus and run the table, but, unfortunately, that's not likely, given the history of college basketball teams peaking too early. GO VOLS!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by UTByrd on March 21, 2008 at 10:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

IPOrange, that is just too hilarious! I fell out of my chair.

Posted by utchris2003 on March 21, 2008 at 10:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Jr..free throw problems again?...We shot over 70 percent. I will take that compared to where we have been most of the season.

creepykev made a god point about tyler kind of running things when JP was in there. The way that the Tennessee offense seems to run with this group, we don't necessarily need a PG to function like a lot of teams who rely on the PG having a hand in everything. We really need a facilitator that gets things running, screens, and occasionally drive the lane for a deuce or dish.

We may have struggled a little bit over the last week, but that does not mean that its all doom and gloom. In all reality, if a few of our 3's would have fallen in the first 10 mins, this game could have been totally different. Given Lofton and JaJuan's history, I trust that they will follow up subpar (I know JaJuan had 19, but he missed a lot early) shooting game with a better performance.

Posted by EDis4UT on March 21, 2008 at 10:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Tennessee is 0-2 vs. Butler, and Butler looks like they are for real. Pearl & Co. better kick it up a notch. Now, it is one bad game and you are through.

Go Mississippi State!

Posted by eb502us on March 21, 2008 at 10:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I've said it all year, we have NO point guard. Jordan is servicable at best and when he shoots one brick after another as he has lately, he's nothing more than a liability. Ramar is also a liability unless its an up and down game and he has the opportunity to get into the open court, but even then, he's still can't shoot anything more than a layup. Same goes for JP. Bottom line is that all three of these guys are nothing more than role players and hopefully our incoming class is good enough next year to make JP and Ramar our 7th and 8th man. Unless of course they miraculously learn what a jump shot is.

Posted by VOLinGA on March 21, 2008 at 10:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Let Ramar run point and let it be. Don't have him looking over his shoulder. Let him play. He will step up. JP is NOT a point guard. Bad attitude, no ball control, can't dribble or shoot, bad decisions. JP is great as a 6th man for his intangibles...but you need a true PG this time of year and Ramar is the best option you've got. It's 15 games too late to experiment.

Posted by redneckerson on March 21, 2008 at 10:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)

hey, thevol, what about the suspensions???

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

UTByrd, he's kinda scarey looking, ain't he? He's got game, though. He put up the winning basket against the Vols in the SEC tourney, and sent Smokey home with his tail between his legs.

Posted by bricker865 on March 21, 2008 at 11:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

gatornation...good luck in the NIT. Let us know how it goes.

Posted by VolBall on March 21, 2008 at 11:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Survive and advance. That's what it's all about. I sure hope Lofton can get off Sunday against Butler. We are going to need all cylinders firing. It's time to catch fire.

Prince is a peculiar player. Obviously he is a gifted athelete, but he plays with little urgency, he has no outside shot, and why any team wouldn't sluff off on him and make him go right is beyond me. I don't think he is the answer at point, but it's hard to question Pearl. He knows how to push the right buttons. I sense that we are ready to explode agianst Butler. Tyler and Wayne and JaJuan appear to have it together, but we need everyone clicking against Butler.

Posted by dvols on March 21, 2008 at 11:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)

anybody second guessing bp is hilarious. we are in uncharted territory my friends!

we have won 30. damn not been so long ago that we would dream of this.

new era! might take some time and support for our leaders.

all we have to do is get hot. just like anybody that wins this gay tourny.

hell even women fill out brackets and win!

Posted by yabadabadoo1026 on March 21, 2008 at 11:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)

db11_cn since you have so little respect for Fosters game --20+ pt avg, 53% FG %, 47% 3 pt , 5 rbs/gm --and think him a rediculous pick for Player of the Year, why dont you tell us who your pick is???

Posted by yemmusdarb on March 22, 2008 at 12:02 a.m. (Suggest removal)

hahaha, WHERE'S THAT "JORDAN BREAKING OUT OF HIS SLUMP ARTICLE"????? He made 2 shots against UF and they said he was out of his slump and EVERYONE was agreeing. It seemed like I was the only one saying that was ridiculous. You can't say someone is out of a slump by making 2 shots in a game?? I have NEVER heard of someone shooting as bad as he has and still getting PT so this is not a surprise to me. Unlike Phil Fulmer, Bruce doesn't care if you're a Senior or not. If you don't produce, you sit the bench PERIOD.

Jordan is something like 4 of his last 41 shots. As God as my witness, I could do better than that.... and yes, I'm dead serious. I could go out there and if I got 19 minutes like Jordan was getting I guarantee I go for better than 4/41 and probably even run the point better than he did overall.

Posted by yemmusdarb on March 22, 2008 at 12:03 a.m. (Suggest removal)

ahhhh here it is, please read my comments:

http://www.govolsxtra.com/news/2008/m...

Posted by dvols on March 22, 2008 at 12:12 a.m. (Suggest removal)

no yemmus u could not!!!!!!!!

sad that we are talking about jordan.

thats why we might fail.
i say might!

might not though!

Posted by mparker on March 22, 2008 at 12:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I COMPLETELY disagree with you guys about 'peaking at Memphis'. we dind't play a great game agsinst Mem, Mem is overrated.

Mem has a crap inside game. We killed them around the basket. The only reason Mem was in the game at all was we did our typical 'no guard' of the other team's best shooter.

Look, we as fans, the players, the press, CBP, and about every bracket watcher knows Butler is a nasty matchup for us. Butler will have supreme confidence from kicking out a## last year, and from how we struggled with American and UK.

There is one thing about this version of UT: they CAN play really good ball. Will they?? Who the hell knows??

We can't get behind Butler, or we are gone. That is a lot of presure to deal with.

Posted by jcvet on March 22, 2008 at 12:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)

They beat Memphis and now have mailed in the rest of the season. This team will be know as a great enigma.. Or can you say quitters?

Posted by mparker on March 22, 2008 at 12:34 a.m. (Suggest removal)

yeah, jcvet, sure;
that's why they came all the way back against UF to beat them in Gainesveille. Must be that 'quit' in them.

Or, maybe that's why they fought orf USC, or were battling to win the SEC tournament to the last second.

Are you a fan, or do you just like to bltch a lot??

Posted by skroutyboy on March 22, 2008 at 12:34 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Dan, trying to comment

Posted by mparker on March 22, 2008 at 12:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)

for those of you actually interested in how to beat butler, it appears the common thread is stopping AJ Graves:
http://sports.yahoo.com/ncaab/teams/bav

Wirght State played them tought twice, and Cleveland State beat them.

We shall hope that we don't go 3 for 29 again.

Posted by skroutyboy on March 22, 2008 at 12:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)

OK, let's all calm down and look at this objectively. First, I am not pleased with our performance today. However, consider this--how do you defend against the bombs they were hitting against us? I will let a team shoot those every day and take our chances. I thought our interior defense was much improved. I did expect our press to create more turnovers, but that's how it goes. I am troubled by the discrepancy in rebounds. That cannot continue or we will be beaten. Many were long rebounds on 3 point shots, but that does not excuse all of them. Rebounding is basically about desire and positioning, with the emphasis on desire. Be men Volunteers. Do you want it more than the other team? It's really a simple game and we mus exercise the fundamentals. We do that--we win. "I will give my all for Tennessee today."

Posted by Kwitcherbellyachin on March 22, 2008 at 12:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I've said it once, and I will say it again... we will be fine.

Posted by mparker on March 22, 2008 at 12:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)

another interesting fact;

7 of the 31 teams besides UT left in the tournament have played the Vols this season, and UT is 6-2 against them:
Ark (2)
Texas
WKU
WVU
Memphis
MSU
Xaviar

Posted by FatherVol on March 22, 2008 at 12:57 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I've picked Mississippi State to shock Memphis on Sunday.

Posted by mparker on March 22, 2008 at 1:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)

fathervol;
jamont will have to step it up.

Posted by pearlific on March 22, 2008 at 1:12 a.m. (Suggest removal)

iporange...we've been calling him Geico...since he looks like a caveman.

Posted by LargeOrange on March 22, 2008 at 1:17 a.m. (Suggest removal)

yemmusdarb at 12:02 a.m. "Unlike Phil Fulmer, Bruce doesn't care if you're a Senior or not. If you don't produce, you sit the bench PERIOD. Jordan is something like 4 of his last 41 shots."

What are you saying yemmusdarb, Fulmer would have let him go 4 out of his last 61 shots or 81 shots? It only took 3 weeks and 2 losses and he is "going to sit the bench PERIOD" Wow what a tough coach CBP is, Fulmer would have never figured that out. You crack me up, Pearl can do no wrong and Fulmer and do no right. How long before you haters turn on Pearl? My guess is Sunday at the earliest and next march at the latest.

Posted by IBleedOrange444 on March 22, 2008 at 1:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)

skroutyboy-

21 turnovers for American off of 12 steals. That's a good number. We were getting killed on the boards and I would expect to see an improved performance on the glass on Sunday.

I hate it for Jordan, but he's not a threat to score. I think Pearl sitting Ramar for the 1st half will motivate him to get to the rim more and protect it as well. If that's the case, JP won't have to spend too much time at the point.

There is too much negativity on this site!!!!! You guys have to remember that this is the damn tournament. There aren't any scrubs that are still playing. Tip your hat to the opponent. They gave us their best shot and still fell short by 15. Do you think the Duke fans are tounge lashing their team all the way back to the plane tonight on their fan sites??? Have a little faith in your team and hope that the players have more faith in themselves than ya'll do.

Posted by IBleedOrange444 on March 22, 2008 at 1:25 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Well put Large Orange.

I'm so sick of all these chumps crusifying Fulmer in the off season. Fulmer didn't throw the 2 4th quarter picks that lost the SEC championship and (not that I'm advocating it becasue he had a great UT career) you don't hear anyone on hear M F-ing Ainge out the door.

Posted by volfan73120 on March 22, 2008 at 1:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I agree that too much negative energy is spent on this site. It usually comes from those who think they know more than the coaches. Tearing down individual players who give their sweat and blood for priviledge of being a Vol is not the answer. If you want to be a true Vol Fan cut out the name calling and finger pointing and support the team, its players, its coaches and the wonderful school they represent. Go Vols, do your best. We are behind you through the good times and the bad times.

Posted by IBleedOrange444 on March 22, 2008 at 2:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Amen!

Posted by chrisw2967 on March 22, 2008 at 3:11 a.m. (Suggest removal)

these players needs to get that fire back and hunger that they had and if they can do that I think we will be fine . Butler will be a tough game but how many gmmes have we played this year like this but against better teams ?
we need Lofton to step up really big , I would just love to see him one time this year to completely take over the game.
Regardless we have to stick with this team , they have took us higher than we have ever been before and we never thought we would ever get this high this fast.

Posted by TK on March 22, 2008 at 5:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I am surprised that BP has not looked back at Josh Tabb. Before Tabb got hurt early in the year Bruce said he had the best assist to turnover ratio on the team and was going to use him at point. I think Ramar has to much street ball in him to ever be consistant in a set system. I wonder if their is a junior college pg out there that would fit UT's system? A lot to expect from West next year to upgrade pg as a freshman.

Posted by schymtz on March 22, 2008 at 6:23 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Critical self-analysis can be a good thing in identifying vulnerabilities but excessive self analysis is more a sign of vulnerability and can be destructive of team cohesion and confidence. This team has strengths that can futher employed and, sure, real vulnerabilities that can be exploited by an opponent...like say Butler. Now there is a team! What are their vulnerabilities, and how can we, with our strengths, exploit their vulnerabilities? What are the Vols going to do to...who? Butler! Focus on tasks, not on much on real or imagined weaknesses only. Beat up on Butler, not ourselves with excessive naval gazing. How do we with what we got beat up on who? Butler! Beat 'em! Beat 'em! BEAT 'EM BAD!

Posted by vol4good on March 22, 2008 at 6:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)

You guys all crack me up. NEWS FLASH Tennessee WON! Ya'll sound like TN got their butts kicked. Just a few years ago, TN was happy to make the NIT and not get smoked by 20. Now Pearl has this team in a position to not only hold its own under adversity, but WIN. Relax fellas--Pearls Skinnin this cat, Ya'll just hold it's feet!

Posted by Razzle on March 22, 2008 at 6:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Pearl knows Butler as well as anyone. He was 6-3 against them as coach of Wisconsin-Mil.

Posted by Razzle on March 22, 2008 at 6:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Vols by 12 over Butler.

Posted by General_Watermelon on March 22, 2008 at 7:16 a.m. (Suggest removal)

You got to feel for Pearl right now. He's got a mess at point. He doesn't have one.

Posted by slambob2 on March 22, 2008 at 7:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Ramar is playing very poorly at the point and Jordan has been awful for the last dozen games.

But Jordan WAS good. And Ramar was good last year. It's the coach's job to help them find success or put the team on the court that can find success. I believe CBP is up to the job like few have ever been at UT.

My biggest concern is that Lofton has reverted to his early-season horrendous play. He doesn't play defense, period. He is responsible for a handful of fouls on our big guys when he gets driven past like a yield sign and they have to leave their guy to play "D" on Chris's guy. His offense is only slightly better than Jordan's right now.

I understand they're guarding him, but he's got to fight for his shot, not just hope to be left open. He isn't fighting hard enough. I would be tempted to sit him on the bench next to Jordan and turn the game over to Tyler Smith.

slambob

Posted by orangeinmississippi on March 22, 2008 at 8:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Coach was right to bench Ramar,but damn,not with Howell in his place! We better come to play Sunday or we are going out quick! Lofton needs to go off in this game! Lets go boys,show em what got you here! GOOOOOOOOOOOO VOOOOOLLLLLS!!!!

Posted by VolJunkie on March 22, 2008 at 8:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I originally posted this under the other article, but after reading a lot of the posts here it seems like I was watching a different game:

It did not seem like UT shot 71% from the line but when I checked:

Turnovers: UT-14 / AU-21
FT: UT-71% / AU-50%
FG: UT-48.9% / AU-36.2%
Reb/Off: UT-25/4 / AU-37/16
Assists: UT-13 / AU-9
Steals: UT-12 / AU-5

So we got outrebounded, had too many turnovers and win by 15. Do that 5 more times and let me know what day the parade is.

Go VOLS!!!

Posted by Plasticman on March 22, 2008 at 8:31 a.m. (Suggest removal)

You're crazy Slambob. No coach in America would sit Lofton . He's a threat to go off and score 30 pts. at any time. I agree he has been up and down this season, however, I really think he plays better when he knows we MUST have him score, like last season. Tyler Smith has added a new dimension to our offense. As for PG, I say give it to Ramar and let him run with it. Maybe he has been feeling too much pressure with all the changes Pearl keeps making at PG. Ramar does need to learn to kick it out every now and then when he drives to the basket. Reboundin will be key against Butler.

Posted by THE_VOL on March 22, 2008 at 8:34 a.m. (Suggest removal)

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

......As for the "coaching decision" - HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!! Okay, if that's what they wanna call it so be it. I guess technically one could say it IS a "coaching decision" since the coach actually makes the decision on suspensions so we'll play along. It's probably the right thing to call it anyway since that way tends to protect the players a bit by not putting the gory details in the street for people that don't need to know. Anyway, that's behind us for now I guess but...

for all you Howell haters - and that's been a growing list - you may not have him to kick around much the rest of the way. Sounds to me like he'll be VERY LUCKY to get any minutes the rest of the way after what occured today.....

Good morning people! So many little sheep on here I see. So funny that most of you would buy ice from a snowman if you lived in the Arctic! I'll stand by what I've posted ALL WEEK and leave it at that. Ya'll believe what ya want but just remember your favorite savior is the MASTER of spin! Baaaaaaa...baaaaaaaa...baaaaaaaa

Posted by VolJunkie on March 22, 2008 at 8:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)

AND, for those of you hating on JP, saying he does not hustle or play defense, let's look at yesterday's stat line shall we:

Minutes: 21
FG: 1-3
FT: 6-8, 75%
Reb: 2
Assist: 1
TO: 3 (ouch)
PF: 1
STEALS: 3

BTW, same number of turnovers as CLo. I'm not saying JP is the second coming, but he does play solid defense and is always a threat to take it inside. This kid has been asked to come off the bench and fill any number of roles. Don't know how long CBP has been working him at point. I do know that 30 wins in the SEC and playing a killer non-conf schedule makes CBP a whole lot smarter than any of us, I'll trust him to take us to the Alamo.

And let me know what day the parade is on! ;)

Go VOLS!!!

Posted by LargeOrange on March 22, 2008 at 8:41 a.m. (Suggest removal)

IBleedOrange444 1:25 a.m. and volfan73120 at 1:50 a.m. - Great posts. But be careful, if you are too positive and support the team. it's players and coaches, you will be blasted as sheep, fools, kool-aid drinkers, lovers of mediocrity and worse. For me I take those insults as a badge of honor. GO Vols! Beat Butler tomorrow!

Posted by THE_VOL on March 22, 2008 at 8:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)

hey junkie...get off the smack man! This team produces yesterday's numbers again and they'll be lucky to get TWO more games!

Oh and Mike Griffith, please GROW SOME!!

Posted by VolJunkie on March 22, 2008 at 8:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)

THE_VOL -

Show me a successful D1 coach, basketball or football, who is not a spin master. Does not make them less credible, often time it's done to protect their players and/or team. I do the same thing for the people who work for me.

Generally I enjoy reading your insights but IMO that was a baaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaad post.

Go VOLS!!!

Posted by Razzle on March 22, 2008 at 8:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)

the_vol if i didnt know u better id say u are pulling for butler. hahahahahahaha

Posted by VolJunkie on March 22, 2008 at 8:49 a.m. (Suggest removal)

LargeO -

Nice post ... it would be nice to be able to disagree without being labeled "idiots", or "get off the smack". Damn, just make your point without getting personal. I suspect it is easier to do from a keyboard than face-to-face.

THE_VOL -

Sorry that you missed my point; even with those numbers we won by 15, the numbers don't matter, the winning by 15 does. I don't care if we get 1 rebound against Butler if we win by 1 point.

GO VOLS!!!

Posted by Couchdummy on March 22, 2008 at 9:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I agree with most of Plasticman's posts, and this one is no different! Give Ramar the ball, and coach him to kick the ball out when D pressure is too much!

Posted by iowavol on March 22, 2008 at 9:26 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Interesting comments about Howell being a calming force, good ball handler, good defender, etc... Now is not the time to be fighting out of a slump. The past two games, watching Jordan out-dribble his run is not championship basketball. But JP at point seems a bit of a stretch. I say get in Ramar's face and give him the ball - drive and dish without trying to make the no-look, through-two-peoples-chest and six-hands pass. Back to basics. The idea of Tabb at point for more than 2 minutes is intriguing.

Posted by DSaVol on March 22, 2008 at 9:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)

It's true that all that matters at this point is winning and most what has been posted here is totally off base but one thing is very clear IMO - this team is not playing with the intensity, pride, or sense of urgency that I've seen the last two days from just about every one of the other top 8 or 12 seeds. Why? I'm not sure. But it seems to me that we've hit this point the last two years and with a more experienced, deeper squad we should be beyond that. I understand being pissed off because you didn't get a #1 seed but the great teams take that type of disrespect and bludgeon people once the ball is tipped. This team did not do that yesterday. Perhaps they will tomorrow and the rest way (if there is a rest of the way).

It also seems to me that this starts with the coaching staff. Now I'm not going to start ripping BP and the staff - they've produced the greatest season in TN history - but this type of thing happening in year 3 starts to look like a trend. The real onus is certainly on the players though. Somebody, somehow needs to make them understand this is not the time to worry about looking cool, how many minutes you get, or how many points you score. There is only one stat that matters now - TEAM score. This is the time of year that REVEALS character. There are some guys on this team that still don't appear to understand the concept of playing 94 feet, balls to the wall, 40 minutes of hell type basketball every time out. They obviously haven't been committed to the press for sometime, they still don't seem to understand time/score situations given some of the shot selection, and they still don't seem to understand (or accept) who the "go-to" guys are.

Oftentimes in war, when someone tries to be a hero unnecessarily, everyone dies. Conversely a small group working flawlessly and confidently together with the only concern being defeating the enemy and surviving, ala the Special Forces, can overcome much larger and more forceful opponents. Bottom line is that this team needs to go back to the Memphis game, recapture that mindset and that togetherness, forget everything else going on around them, and truly commit to each other and the success of the TEAM. There are no gimme's from here on out and only the MEN will survive. If you want the respect you think you were cheated out of then you simply have to go take it! It's a special time of year and it's time for the Vols Special Forces to arrive.

All that said, I still say the Vols will be in the Elite Eight and we'll see what happens from there. Did I mention that B'ham is not a very nice place?

Posted by DenmarkVol_aka_Mbumburu on March 22, 2008 at 9:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Why would any young athlete want to come and play any sport for the University of Tennessee with fans like this? Who would want to play for
Johnny Majors' "Legion of the Miserable?"

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

mparker, I am the greatest fan. I just don't understand why the headline after most of TN's games since Memphis is about TN getting out hustled the whole game. That was the national headline about the American game. This team used to be known for the opposite. I just hope they hustle against Butler.

Posted by jimr07 on March 22, 2008 at 10:09 a.m. (Suggest removal)

i did not see the game so i have no idea what everyone is talking about. all i see is the final score. it reminds me of something Adolph Rupp when someone reminded him that it is not how you played the game. Rupp said, "then why do the keep score?"

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

I like Jordan but he wasn't getting it done. Pearl needs to have the best 5 out there. I'm sure he has wrestled with the decision. TN never has really put teams away this year, it seems as though they start trying the "fancy" plays or the "big" 3 pt shot to bury them. The SEC may be down (we'll see after the 2nd round) but a team that can beat Memphis High at Memphis can win the NC regardless of the conference rating.

Posted by 98reax on March 22, 2008 at 10:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I don't get it. What's the use for the sarcasm? We could just post our views without the sarcasm. We could agree to disagree? I think the team may have lost some of the great chemistry that kept them focused earlier on in the season. I have no clue what caused that but I'll betcha it is a huge coaching task to try and fix chemistry right here amongst trying to read scouting reports and cover Xs & Os. The pressure is trememdous. I hope they will find each other again and play the way they can play. Howell is obviously frustrated with his own play. I hope they are not reading fans' opinions. If I could send them one little note for their bulletin board, it would read: "I have seen you guys play good enough to defeat ANY team in The Dance. You can do it now."

Posted by oldbasshead on March 22, 2008 at 10:35 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Let Ramar run point and let it be. Don't have him looking over his shoulder. Let him play. He will step up. JP is NOT a point guard. Bad attitude, no ball control, can't dribble or shoot, bad decisions. JP is great as a 6th man for his intangibles...but you need a true PG this time of year and Ramar is the best option you've got. It's 15 games too late to experiment.

This is all that needs to be said.

Posted by tigervol9802 on March 22, 2008 at 10:35 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Not turning on BP. I just don't like this decision even though it may have been unavoidable given the cirsumstances. It just flies in the face of his "three senior guards" quotes he's made all year when referring to tournament play.

I like Prince at the 2 or 3, I just don't like him at the 1. I don't think he's a shut down defender and he doesn't look for open guys. Truth be told, I doubt Pearl likes it as much as we want to think he does. The more I think about it, this isn't a mad scientist experiment. It's more of a pull something off the scrap heep and see if it still works experiment.

I don't think Howell is the big problem. He's a back up. Ramar has got to be the one to step it up. This team's overall play can probably be plotted point for point with the play of Ramar this year. If he could go out and give 25-28 minutes of ball like he was playing mid-season, we're in much better shape. Here's hoping he does tomorrow.

Posted by TommyJack on March 22, 2008 at 10:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)

No sarcasm, no smack, no disrespect: This team, IMO, has never been the same since the Memphis game. Why? I have no clue.

Posted by DenmarkVol_aka_Mbumburu on March 22, 2008 at 10:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Good grief, old****head -- "That is all that needs to be said." You sound like my wife.

Posted by yabadabadoo1026 on March 22, 2008 at 10:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Ashley, with all due respect, the countdown is getting annoying----this is MarchMadness and football isnt on anyones mind on this board till the madness is over

Posted by dopedawg on March 22, 2008 at 10:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Jordan has been good as well as Ramar. Shouldnt just throw them away. Rebound,rebound,rebound...something we've never been good at. Gotta step up, get the loose balls. Any team can be beaten. Bring the A game guys!! We believe in you (well, most of us anyway)!! You CAN beat Butler.

Posted by jcvet on March 22, 2008 at 10:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Keep Howell out of the GD game! Put the 5 best out there and let Howell bring them water during timeouts.

Posted by billnewton on March 22, 2008 at 10:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Hate to say this, but the Vols won't get past Butler. I hope they prove me wrong. They just aren't playing well and they tend to get "too cute". Seems like all they care about is making the top 10 plays. Worry about winning, guys or you'll be watching from home. I hate to see the seniors go out this way. Time to step up guys - ALL of you!

Posted by jcvet on March 22, 2008 at 10:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)

It's a little late to finally realize that Howell should be playing at Motlow. I've known it all along. And I ain't Pearl.

Posted by Colliervol on March 22, 2008 at 11:13 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Good grief. There is a disturbing trend happening here. I agree with DSA again. For some reason, I just don't see the urgency in this team that I saw earlier in the season. And I get tired of seeing other teams control the flow of the game against us. If this team is as good as it thinks it is, it should be imposing its will on other teams and dictating the style of play. But, to do that, they have to REBOUND. I mean let's get real here. That team yesterday had a guy playing that closely resembled Will Ferrell in his new movie, headband and all. And we're getting out-rebounded and out-hustled by that?

As far as the point guard play goes, I feel for Bruce. No question that Jordan and Ramar aren't cutting it but I think using JP at point is a desperate measure. He's a great slasher but I just don't think he's a good enough ball handler over the long haul to play that position. I would almost use Jajuan or Chris at point and start JP on the wing. But, hey, that's why BP gets the big bucks. Pretty tough to make this kind of change this late.

For some reason though, I have a feeling they bring the "A" game against Butler tomorrow, Chris and Jajuan go off and they make it to the Sweet 16. If they don't, they can pack up the gear for the season. That's for sure.

Posted by perryp1 on March 22, 2008 at 11:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)

It looks like UT has not been the same since they beat Memphis. Don't need another game like American. Need to pick up the pace against Butler. Need better offense and better rebounding, offense and defense.

GO VOLS!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by ssukonic on March 22, 2008 at 11:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Wow.....reading this is like going through a mine field. Some of the comments on here are amazing. Bottom line--let our coach do the coaching. He will figure out the best option. You have to go with what you got. I'm amazed that Howell's slump has lasted this long. I remember earlier in the season one of our guys who was struggling with free throws said he knew he'd be o.k. because Steve Forbes was helping him with his free throws. I'm sure they're working and have worked with Howell. He's not missing short and long so much as off right and left. He can shoot; he's shown that. Unfortunately, now is not the time for this. It's time for a peaking team. Watched UNC yesterday here in Raleigh in the first round. Man, poor Mt. St. Mary's. The lambs being lead to the slaughter. Arkansas looked good here yesterday. I've got faith in our guys and our coach to get it done. We'll see....

Posted by zanebreeding on March 22, 2008 at 11:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Wow , Jordan Howell is not a senior leader lets get that out right now. He is at best a small time role player and its good to see JP getting some minutes. Hands down hes going to give you more numbers than Howell any day of the week , the guy was the best six int he conference and thats tough to do. Ramar will get it together eventually at least we all hope he will , his talent sometimes out weighs his silly mistakes , but Howell just isnt good enough to be out ont he floor. I laughed my *** off at the one gentlemen who said Jordan was a calming influence haha , every time he gets on the floor everyone bites their nails , hes the biggest momentum killer ive ever seen. I agree , Dane Bradshaw would be a nice guy to have about now. Pearl made the right move here , i like Jordan and i think hes a good kid and can give us 5 to 10 minutes of decent play , but enough is enough , hes had so many chances and choked on all of them. Simply put , JP and Ramar give us a better chance to win that Jordan Howell. Stevie Pearl gives us a better chance to win right now haha. Lofton cant run the point, hes able to yes but its gonna cut his shots down big time , hes got to get his looks or we are in bad shape.

Posted by eldee on March 22, 2008 at 11:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)

This is my first disagreement with BP as well. Don't get me wrong. BP is the best thing to happen to UT basketball in many years and I'm sure he has forgotten more about basketball than I'll ever know, but this team needs to get re-focussed. Apparently the pg play was good enough to win 25 of their first 27 ballgames against the no. 1 SOS and RPI. Everything has gone south since the win at then no. 1 ranked Memphis. I say don't mess with any rotations just get in their face, get them re-focussed, and make them dance with what got them through the Memphis game. Certain players on this team have wanted to rest on their laurels since that Memphis game. Then again, maybe the benchings will accomplish the re-focussing part.

Posted by volfaninchattanooga on March 22, 2008 at 12:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

http://wdef.com/image_galleries/hoops... Go there for great pics I took from the Vols-American game.

Posted by bmaples on March 22, 2008 at 12:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)

It's a scary thing -- I'm actually agreeing with DSA. Very scary. :--)

If this team forfeited the Butler game and came home right now, you would still have to call this season a TREMENDOUS SUCCESS:
-- 30 wins
-- SEC Champs
-- Number One ranking
-- Beat #1 Memphis on their floor

So, anyone who wants to bitch and moan -- you need to get a life, a job, or some perspective.

Yes, the team looked out-of-sync against American. Yes, it was closer than it probably should have been. Yes, there were moments when the play was ragged, and the team looked unfocused. And yes, if they keep that up against Butler -- and certainly against Louisville -- they will lose.

Guess what? First-round games are like that sometimes. Ask Duke. Ask Vandy. Ask Drake. Sometimes you're clicking, and sometimes you're not.

I would bet that, even as we are posting these wonderfully supportive comments from our recliners, Bruce Pearl and his staff are working on game plans for Butler, and the team is practicing their assess off to get ready. While we're popping a cold one and trying to figure out how to watch four games at once, Bruce Pearl and his staff are going without sleep for two days, and the team is having some of the most intense practices of the year.

I'm not there, and I bet none of the rest of you are either. We're not in that locker room, we're not in that huddle. I'm going to trust that the team and the coaches that figured out how to win 30 games this year will figure out how to beat Butler, and how to put it all on the floor. If BP thinks we need to change, then I'm supporting it.

This isn't a very well-written comment, so let me just close with this:

It's been a great season, no matter how the next game turns out. I hope they play a little better. I trust Pearl to figure it out. And I'm so proud of this team, each of them.

Go Vols!

Posted by redneckerson on March 22, 2008 at 12:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)

tommyjack, that's one of the few sensible posts on this topic. I still say CBP hits the right buttons and the boys make it at least to NoCar and probably further if they catch a break or two.

Posted by thesavageorange on March 22, 2008 at 12:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I may be way off on this, but didn't BP use to bring in Ramar,Tabb,Childress,and Crews together at certain points of the game?Seemed like they could maintain or even extend a lead b/c of fresh legs.It was a spark type group that gave quality minutes.Are Tabb and Childress in BP's doghouse or what?Just seems that he has really cut down the rotation.

Just curious.

Posted by 3StatesofTN on March 22, 2008 at 12:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)

It's way too early to fret. Different teams handle the first round in different manners. Memphis struggled defensively, Vandy rolled over. Yes, UNC andUCLA looked strong, but that is no indication that either team will run off with the title. The stress on this site seems high. I think Butler is battle tested and experienced, but don't count out your Vols. They are more athletic and if they get hot, your team could be in the mix with NC. Once that happens, as DaveVol stated earlier, you never know what will transpire. UT plays to the level of the team before them. I'm rooting for your team.

Posted by zanebreeding on March 22, 2008 at 12:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I agree we had a great season and , should we stick with what got us those nearly 30 wins??? Maybe so , but honestly , this is not the regualr season , this is do or die time. Every team in the field gives it their very best in tourney time , there is no , well if Jordan has a bad game he can step it up next week , unfortunately thats not an option. It can come down to one play , one shot , one foul. You are going to get your best effort from everyone so thats why youve got to have your best players on the floor. The question is , which of those guys you want to have the ball in their hands if the game is on the line??? Jordan Howell? Ramar Smith?? JP Prince , my vote would be for JP or Ramar any day. Granted Lofton or someone else would probably get the ball but thats still the way you have to look at it.

Posted by TommyJack on March 22, 2008 at 12:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)

RedN: I hope you're right. I still think BP is da man...just a very hard team to figure.

Posted by schymtz on March 22, 2008 at 1:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

FOCUS on BUTLER! Let the coach pick who sits and who plays how long and why. Our job is to support the team, not lambast the players we couldn't beat in a game of HORSE. BEAT BUTLER! GO VOLS!

Posted by utchris2003 on March 22, 2008 at 1:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Some Notes on Butler

1 Shoot about 38% as a team from 3,
2 Typically get out rebounded by their opponent, (leading rebounder is a Guard)
3 Hit about 74 % of their free throws
4 Turn the ball over about 10 times per game (should go up against us)
5 Graves and Campbell are their premier 3 point threats (about 3 per game this year) and play almost the whole game
6 They give more points on average in the 2nd half this year (as probably is with most teams)
7 On average play 10 kids but 7 of them see almost all the mins.
8 Will not be at a size disadvantage against us. TAllest player that sees action is 6'7

Posted by thesavageorange on March 22, 2008 at 1:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

BP sees the problem.I hope JP can handle it.I like the move.

"JP's going to play point guard throughout the tournament. I'm committed to it. And Ramar Smith or Jordan Howell will play next to him. It's a little late to do it. We did it against Kentucky, and I got away from it with Florida. But Jordan and Ramar no longer will get 40 minutes (combined) at the point," Pearl said of how things stand now.

"It's a position that we've not played well enough at. There's 40 minutes, and we're trying to play this tournament to advance. We need better play at the position to advance. If this decision doesn't work, so be it. I've got to get my best players on the floor. J.P. Prince deserves to be on the floor more than 10 minutes. We did it after we lost to Vanderbilt. I just didn't stay with it."

Posted by tenacee on March 22, 2008 at 2:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I'll say this. Pearl is going to mess with his team till he out coaches himself. If he is going to bench Smith and Howell and Childress. Then he needs to bench hisself. Just look at his demeaner on the sideline and his intensity. These guys played a big part in getting where they are. And him showing No Confidence and putting these guys down sure isn't helping. I think he should have been a coach instead of a press critic. He has been putting those guys down for weeks. And sorry folks I am afraid it is going to bite him. Those guys, this team, are not playing as I've have really gotten to really enjoy Mens BB again. Sorry Pearl I am disappointed in you, to be so positive then to turn so negative on these players is affecting your team especially at this time. To me just a big coaching blunder. I hope that I am wrong, believe me folks.

Posted by Lofton4three___MONEY on March 22, 2008 at 3:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Tyler for PG. He's the best passer, and we've got plenty of other bigs to play his position.

Posted by johnlg00 on March 22, 2008 at 3:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)

tenacee, CBP is the guy who has gotten us to the point where we actually care about how well the team is playing this late in the year. For reasons unknown to any of us, the guys who gave us success in the first half or two-thirds of the season are hurting us now. It seems to me that CBP has given Jordan and Ramar every chance to do the job they have to do for us to win. He stuck with them long after many posters on here had given up on them. No doubt in my mind that he has been telling them every day in practice what they need to do better. For whatever reason, they have not gotten it done. For him to just say that it's OK for them to continue to under-perform at the most critical time of the season would be abdicating his responsibility to do all HE can do to win. If he thought Jordan and Ramar were doing all they could to get better and were delivering in the games, he would stick with them still. For my part, I would rather see Tabb get more minutes at point than JP, but CBP gets the big bucks to make those decisions and he is taking responsibility for them. I'm rooting for the Vols all the way. I love what CBP has done for the team and the university. I am NOT willing to put the feelings of any particular player ahead of the welfare of the team, and apparently neither is CBP, for which I applaud him. GO VOLS!!! BEAT BUTLER!!! ON TO SAN ANTONIO!!!

Posted by chrisw2967 on March 22, 2008 at 3:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)

JP is no point guard , he doesnt want to pass the ball , all he wants is the ball in his hands and drive to the basket and he isnt looking to kick it back out , he has no outside shot.this is a move I dont understand and if it works out for Pearl he will look like a genius and if not then it just might cost him a chance at a NC.
you cant experiment once you get in this tournament, thats what the regular season is for.
Just leave Ramar alone and let him run the point, he just needs to play under control.

Posted by dopedawg on March 22, 2008 at 4:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I thought Duke might be over rated. WVA put em down. TN could beat Duke. Concentrate guys, beat Butler!! You can do it, if you set your minds to it!!! No more fighting or bickering, get over the #2 seed. Play like you can be and I think are--champions!!

Posted by Kwitcherbellyachin on March 22, 2008 at 5:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm always amazed at the number of coaches we have in our midst. Moreover, I wonder why none of these same coaches were available when UT was out hiring such mediocre talent as Houston, O'Neill, Green, and Peterson.

Posted by Razzle on March 22, 2008 at 5:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Posters giving advice to Pearl. I hope he gives u guys a call so u can set him straight. Hilarious.

Posted by bamacheats on March 22, 2008 at 5:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Good thing that Bruce doesn't believe in that "Stay the course" nonsense!

Posted by thesavageorange on March 22, 2008 at 5:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Superb read on Coach Pearl and his struggle getting to division-1 basketball.Some things I knew and several things I didn't.

http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/column...

Posted by VolCane7979 on March 22, 2008 at 5:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Seriously, are some of you clowns doubting the guy who got Tennessee to this lofty position? Are you all in the locker rooms? Attend practice? See how hard the players are working? Yeah, didn't think so.

Stick to watching the games and supporting the team. Go vols.

Posted by dopedawg on March 22, 2008 at 6:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Just watched 10 news. Team seems to know how tough Butler is and how important this game is. Hope they remember this tomarrow. Rest up guys, a tough one is comming!!! Win or loose, you guys are still my favorite team and I hope Tennessee's team!!!! Go Vols!!!!

Posted by KnoxVol_in_TX on March 22, 2008 at 7:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Prince cant pass, Prince cant pass, Prince cant pass!!!!!!!

Posted by KnoxVol_in_TX on March 22, 2008 at 7:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Still, I love this team, and Prince is a great player...but no PG

Posted by bpvol on March 22, 2008 at 9:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Been a while since I posted but here's my opinion;

BP knows what he is doing....At the beginning of the season Jordan was leading the team and knocking down open 3's very confidently...

Suddenly, mid season rolls around and it becomes expected to hit the 3's..... pressure takes it toll and all of a sudden he goes into a slump, the shooting slump shakes that confidence and moves into an overall leadership issue....

This year, Ramar never has gained last years poise or swagger....not sure about him...

Either way, whats the best thing for pressure....Jordan's not the starter, he comes off the bench....Mark my words, before this game/tourney is over, Jordan Howell will show up big....

We have nothing to lose and everything to gain...so what....do you think that if JP really stinks that BP won't sub....now either Ramar or Jordan, come off the bench and have no expectations....so to speak...

I think its a great idea and will work wonders for Jordan...not sure about Ramar.

Posted by VolCane7979 on March 22, 2008 at 10:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Guess we'll see if Prince can't handle the point..... naysayers.

Posted by dopedawg on March 23, 2008 at 5:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Out in secon round!!! Who said that!!! We won!!! Feep the faith Orange Nation!!!!

Posted by Grim1 on March 23, 2008 at 8:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

yeah