Report card: Tennessee vs. Kentucky

By Dave Hooker

Originally published 12:57 a.m., November 30, 2008
Updated 12:57 a.m., November 30, 2008

Quarterbacks B+

For those who forgot that Jonathan Crompton was a good deep-ball thrower, he offered a reminder via a 63-yarder. Makes one wonder how such plays got lost in UT's playbook. Crompton was efficient and avoided big mistakes. Gerald Jones broke a 55-yard run out of the G-Gun. Eric Berry also had a 23-yard run.

Running Backs B+

It almost seemed like the ole' "Pound the Rock" days as UT's running game wore Kentucky down. Arian Foster and Lennon Creer ran well against a defense determined to stop the run.

Receivers C+

Denarius Moore reeled in a 63-yard touchdown pass. That's the kind of explosion UT's offense has been missing for most of the season. Only two wide receivers (Moore and Jones) caught passes (four for 78 yards).

Offensive Line B

The Vols struggled in pass protection early then punched it in for a touchdown just before halftime. The Vols provided a push in the running game in the second half that secured the game.

Defensive Line B+

The Vols struggled to stop the run early, especially inside, but recovered well in the second half. End Robert Ayers and tackle Walter Fisher both had a tackle for a loss.

Linebackers B+

Nevin McKenzie registered two tackles for a loss (including a sack) and Rico McCoy had one. McCoy was active with eight tackles. Ellix Wilson led UT with nine tackles.

Secondary B+

Berry had five tackles, two for a loss. There weren't any game-changing plays from UT's vaunted secondary but the coverage was strong.

SPECIAL TEAMS C-

Daniel Lincoln missed a 31-yard field goal. No mistakes, but no big plays either.

COACHING A

UT's coaches kept their players' minds on football - no small feat given the situation.

OVERALL PF

For Phillip Fulmer, who cemented his place in SEC lore as one of the two greatest coaches in UT history. He should be remembered for such and his legacy shouldn't be tarnished by his final season.