Q&A with Fulmer on Georgia game

Interview with Tennessee football coach Phillip Fulmer.

1. How did Nick Stephens handle the job in his debut as the starting quarterback, and where does he need to improve?

A - "He made a good start. He got the ball out of there on time. In the third period he made a couple of big plays like we have been searching for offensively. During the course of the game, there were some plays he felt he could have made. For the most part, he did a really good job of managing the game and the clock, also throwing the football on time.

2. How much has the stellar play of the secondary contributed to Tennessee's rank among the national leaders in defense?

A - "When your secondary is strong, it allows a lot more freedom for your linemen and linebackers. This secondary, although young in a couple of places, shows a real nose for the football. So far, they have given up very few big plays, what we call explosive plays."

3. Can Tennessee's recent success at Athens help you prepare the team mentally for Saturday's game in a hostile location?

A - "We talk about the history every week, no matter who we play. We've won a couple of games in Athens. It's part of the history, but it doesn't prove anything. It should give the team a good feeling about going into Athens, however."

4. Explain the importance Saturday's game with Georgia can play in the Eastern Division race of the SEC.

A - It's a huge football game for both teams. We're a little behind, but if we can continue to improve, we will see what we can do the rest of the season. It would be great to get a big win."

5. How much success has Mark Richt achieved at Georgia in reaching a balance with the offense and defense?

A - "They have recruited well, they have good players on both sides, and they are coached well. They have the ability to control the football. They can run, and they can throw. On defense, they do a really good job of mixing pressure and zone. They have ability on both sides of the ball and also good special teams."