Add another linebacker to the season-ending injury list.
Give one more defensive back questionable status for the next game.
Continue to monitor the starting kicker and his availability.
Tennessee obviously isn’t immune to injuries, but given the seemingly relentless way they’ve piled up, at this point coach Lane Kiffin hardly seems fazed by them. Heading into the regular-season finale at Kentucky on Saturday (TV: ESPNU, 7 p.m.), he might be short two more starters, but that’s really nothing new for the Vols.
“I don’t know that it’s part of a reason for the injuries, but anytime you’re not a very deep team, anytime your numbers are down, that’s going to show up at the end of the season,” Kiffin said. “It’s really going to show up if you have as many injuries as we’ve had, especially at a specific spot like (defensive back) and Mike (position) linebacker. Then with the two kids not here right now from the incident, it’s really starting to show up and reminds you why you’ve got to recruit so well from top to bottom.
“We’ve had 14 kids that were on scholarship that aren’t here anymore, then you take six season-ending injuries, that puts you at 20 right there. When you’re 20 scholarships short, that’s eventually going to show up.”
It’s been particularly evident on defense since UT (6-5, 3-4 SEC) hasn’t been able to rotate as much as it typically would, and the losses might be even more glaring against the Wildcats (7-4, 3-4).
Freshman linebacker Greg King chipped a bone in his elbow in the first start of his career on Saturday night and will have surgery that will cost him the rest of the season.
Cornerback Art Evans dislocated his shoulder in the win over Vanderbilt and might not play this week. Kicker Daniel Lincoln apparently is still feeling the effects of a sore quadriceps and wasn’t available against the Commodores.
The Vols found a replacement for Lincoln in walk-on Devin Mathis, and they might be getting back a couple players who could fill the void of the other two players. But normal starting linebacker LaMarcus Thompson is still questionable as he recovers from a stinger and there’s no guarantee defensive back Marsalous Johnson will return from his thumb surgery as planned.
UT has at least picked up a lot of experience scrambling to deal with holes in the lineup, though.
“It reminds what we’re here to do, and that’s go get a lot of really good players so we don’t have this issue again,” Kiffin said. “It’s not just the top players you sign, the five-stars that everybody knows, but all the way to the bottom of your roster. We spent all morning recruiting. This morning we had some great prospective student-athletes in here on our campus, and we’ll continue to hit the road, hit the phones.
“We have some guys stepping up for us to play well, but this is not a problem we want to ever have again.”
Kiffin is already working on fixing it — both in the short-term and long.
Familiar Stripes: The number of penalties was clearly higher than Kiffin would have liked on Saturday. But perhaps the more troubling issue was the amount of different ways the Vols found to draw flags against Vanderbilt, which seemed to puzzle Kiffin more than anything else.
“I hope it’s out of character, that nine penalties,” he said after the game. “We were the least penalized yardage team in the SEC coming into the game, I think we were fourth in the country, so we are very disappointed in that. A lot different type of fouls today. A lot of fouls right at the whistle where some guys were playing through the whistle, and we can’t make those kind of mistakes.
“Then we get a turnover and there’s a pass interference on it. Then we fake a punt and make it and get a hold that’s past the first down. Then we stop them and they punt, we’re in punt-safe and they call us for hitting the center. I asked the refs if they had called that this year and that was the first time they had called it. It was good to see those guys. We’ve had that crew before.”
The last time the Vols had seen umpire Wally Hough was at Alabama, which wasn’t such a friendly meeting.
Team sources confirmed that UT had contacted both SEC commissioner Mike Slive and coordinator of officials Rogers Redding about that crew’s work involving the Vols in the past. But Kiffin is unlikely to comment publicly about them again since being reprimanded after the loss to the Crimson Tide.
Jackson Action: The Vols are still waiting for more information on safety Janzen Jackson before deciding on his future with the team after his arrest for attempted armed robbery. They could get what they need as early as today with the freshman scheduled for a preliminary court date.
“We have no new information for it,” Kiffin said. “Obviously we hope this gets resolved very soon. We’re waiting to get all the information in, so I have nothing new for you. I hope to soon.”
Tougher Tackling: Kiffin finally gave a definitive number for missed tackles in the loss at Ole Miss, and it proved how markedly improved the Vols were one week later.
“Missed tackles went down from 24 to eight from the game before, so we did improve that way,” Kiffin said. “We improved assignment-wise, but we have a long ways to go to play like we did during that four-game stretch earlier in the year.”
Tennessee's signing class for 2012
National Signing Day 2010
Tennessee Lady Vols 82, Auburn Tigers 64
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Comments » 49
ncvol17 writes:
even if the injured play, it cannot be at the level they started the season with. we see the need to build depth as well as add front line talent... good thing we have some great recruiters going out this winter....
DooleyNoted writes:
Terrible title to the article. Should say "Future recruiting classes needed to build depth". Kiffin's quality is not in question. Go Vols!
HartfordCTvol writes:
So this was the same umpire from the Bama game? I would have wagered ten to one that was the case. I'll also wager you ten to one that Kiffin is preparing more complaints. This umpire is apparently a vindictive guy. There's some pretty heavy evidence of such. I hope this does not continue to hamper Kiffin in the future.
CapitolC writes:
Recruiting quality players can begin instantly but restoring depth takes time - just think where we would be if Fulmer were still here. Probably 2-9...or worse.
govols26 writes:
I'm guessing mr Slime got a little red-faced at Kiffin's comment about the refs. Too bad he can't do a thing about it! Gotta love Kiffin's sense of humor.
elbtenn#502977 writes:
Basketvols do it!
vol98champ writes:
Injurires? Did the refs proof read this article?
AceVentura writes:
"It was good to see those guys. We’ve had that crew before" gotta give Kiffin credit for being able to stick it to the refs without making it sound like he is. That was hilarious. Next year after the Florida game I expect him to say that him and Urban Cryer are best pals hahaha Lane is the man.
VolFanNC writes:
Definitely 2 more years before the depth will be there. Bright side is lot of people are getting playing time, will defnitely be helpful next year.
Refs definitely were terrible that game. Can't believe the pass interference, holding or hitting the snapper calls. completely crazy, how can these guys still be allowed to call games? If vandy was any better those calls could have cost us the game.
lamigravol writes:
Umpire Wally Hough, used to play @ UF, and was president of the Putnam County Gator Club. Why does he get to work any SEC games?
windy writes:
Does anyone have th UT-DePaul score yet???
steamboatticket#484773 writes:
Agreed. It's good to see Coach showing command of the English language. He held back the rush to avoid a flag around the Vandy punter, and the zebra threw a flag on the guy against their center. I hope and expect that Coach KIffin will make use of proper protocols to the absolute maximum degree.
lamigravol writes:
UT 57 Depaul 53 F
Ayres_Hall writes:
Well, that's why it's called rebuilding and not reloading. This will require at least three classes to rebuild the level of talent and depth required to play agressive and physical and win championships.
FWBVol writes:
It's not that uncommon to have former SEC players officiating SEC games in any sport. It doesn't happen a whole lot, but there are a few scattered through the league. Other conferences also have former players from those conferences serving as game officials.
I know the SEC has a rule that no official can work the game of a school they attended.
lamigravol writes:
I don't think they allow Wally to work UF games. It seem with his level of involvement in UF football, he shouldn't be allowed to influence any games. Also, a couple years ago, Wally was almost fired for being out of shape. He's over fifty, and about 275 lbs.
vestc#256986 writes:
you are right, numerous bad calls. How about the DB holding Stocker's arm down negating a big gain and first down? Stocker tried to one hand it but couldn't pull the important catch down. On the TV you could see the official looking right at the play. Those officials were playing payback or are outright corrupt or at least bad officials.
lamigravol writes:
I don't think there are too many booster club presidents officiating games, especially same division rivals.
tennezz writes:
We need to add the Good Witch Doctor to the UT medical staff, The ones we have are having trouble with the bones!
82cat writes:
With all the holes on defense dont look for us to punt from our own 40 forward against kentucky.
I will say this-- Kentucky this is your shot your golden opportunity, getting a beat up banged up UT defense with the look of a jv team.
IF KENTUCKY DOESN'T WIN THIS GAME THEY SHOULD JUST CANCEL THE SERIES AND FORFEIT EVERY YEAR.
Having said that I believe this UT team will show up back against the wall and pull out a close one.
VOLS 31 KY 27
bobbytodd writes:
There were 3 big calls. 1) Holding on the fake punt...UT was holding. 2) Illegal hit on the center on the Vandy punt...even the announcers watching on replay said it looked fine. 3) The pass interference call in the end zone...the announcers again saw nothing on replay...I just wonder if Slive's henchmen will give us all the calls when we start fighting for BCS spots or if Kif will always be in the doghouse.
windy writes:
Thanks
UTByrd writes:
I've said it before and I'll say it again: I'm surprised CLK wasn't called for a late hit out of bounds on Crompton after Brown got his most wonderful TD.
It was great to see the enthusiasm for Wes's TD. I was just shickled titless.
I think CLK has the right approach to the injury bug...recruit all the way through the walk-ons, not just 3, 4, and 5 star "rated" players. Stars just can't predict a player's commitment, moral compass, dedication, team first attitude, etc. Just look at what our walk-ons have been able to contribute.
With proper depth, we would not have to rely on the scout teamers or walk-ons. CLK was, is, and will address this malady accordingly.
Go VOLS!!!!!
jhayes0926#638474 writes:
with all the injuries, I expect we will have to play like we did against Fl. - relentless running attack to control the time of poss. We need to keep the defense off the field big time!
smokies_old_soul writes:
why is coach kiffin waiting on the courts to drop the charges against janzen jackson and acting like he is waiting on more info about the incident ?? by now, he knows exactly what jackson did and didn't do that night at the pilot station.
the main thing is that jackson was out joy-riding with the other three idiots in the middle of the night only a few days after sitting out a game because of disciplinary reasons.
i don't need any more info than that to know i don't want this kid in my program, lack of depth be damned. janzen jackson has clearly shown the team is not his first priority.
you don't build championship teams with bad character and i want a team i'm not ashamed to be a fan of.
do the right thing coach kiffin.
CoverOrange writes:
Now it becomes obvious why it is not a good idea to criticize the refs. They will get you one way or another.
Bobbytodd, broadcasters, years ago, were asked not to incite fans by questioning calls and replaying controversial plays excessively. But the ESPNU crew did think the calls strange.
murrayvol writes:
The 2 pass interference calls (Anderson & McCoy) seemed to be "phantom calls" but you don't always get a clear view on TV replay.
The call on McCoy was puzzling since he wasn't close enough to get a hand on the guy for the last 5-6 yards of the pattern.
I'm sure the SEC office will sort it out.
leedsvol2007 writes:
And one of the balls was deflected. Once the ball is tipped there is no interference. The ball was deflected before it got to the receiver by the underneath defender.
smokies_old_soul writes:
hmmmmmm - i haven't really thought of it that way. you may be right.
twmartin21#209204 writes:
Did Brent Vinson play either of the last 2 games?
AllforTenn writes:
It is not up to the police officers, who hate to drop any charges. It is up to the judicial system, based on the proof presented on both sides of the issue.
Need_2_Know writes:
FYI, from a technical standpoint, the police can't "drop" the charges, no matter what they have since learned. Once they have charged a defendant on a warrant and that defendant has been arrested, it's beyond their direct control. What they can do, when appropriate, is ask the court to dismiss them (through the prosecutor or AG's office). Tomorrow being the preliminary (initial) hearing on this matter, that is the earliest the charges could go away.
I'm just sayin' . . .
98vols writes:
But you do build championships with bad character look at Fla. and Spikes and the other thugs on the team. He tries to rip another players eyes out and sits out a sure win. Seems that Ala. has had their share of thugs on winning teams also.
mm29680#645909 writes:
Slime probably thought it was funny to see Wally Hough and his crew out there on the field, because he, too, loves Florida. Until we get an unbiases officiating group, we will be facing this again. Slime is probably a member in good standing with the Wally Hough "I Hate Tennessee Booster Club."
VolFanInTheBoro writes:
Is that you gatorz
micbrooks#212023 writes:
As an alum of both UT and Ole Miss, I can tell you the bad officiationg was not limited to the Vandy game. The Oxford refs did everything they could do to give the game to LSU, and still the kitties lost. To call back not one, but two TDs is downright criminal, and on chickensh!t penalties like excessive celebration for diving into the Endzone. The block in the back was clearly shown on replay to be bogus as well. GBO
chl1958 writes:
Do you understand how much the officials can influence the point spread in a game and how beneficial that would be to the Bookies?
UrbanCryer writes:
yeah CLK do the right thing and START jansen against kentucky. hes already missed two games for being out late
UrbanCryer writes:
hope your not a lawyer or judge. charges dropped. jansen INNOCENT
desfpvol13 writes:
"If the police have not dropped the charges by now, they won't be dropped."
You were saying?
hahaha
OrangePride writes:
I sure hope you're right about the "not being able to do anything about it" portion of your post. I have been worried that Slive would find some obscure "belittlement" clause or "object to the tone" nonsense. BUT here is what Slive SHOULD focus on......this is the SAME crew from Alabama and this crew has developed (and earned) a horrible reputation! Two interference calls and the "newly instituted" roughing the center call were beyond atrocious..and the video proves it. How about suspensions for THAT officiating crew! If your refs did a better job, perhaps this criticism you are so concerned about would go away. NOTE TO SLIVE: DO YOUR DANG JOB!!!
richvol writes:
You are so right...I completely had forgotten about the play with Stocker because I was so mad about the hitting the snapper penalty. No snapper can be involved with that play without getting hit and in 50 years of watching SEC football I can't ever recall it being called. From the replay it is obvious that he was not defenseless and was set up to defend against the rush. The official was clearly looking for anything to call.
The holding penalty on the fake punt was non-existent and the pass interference was BS.
I already knew Slive was spineless and it's becoming clearer everyday that he is biased as well when he allows this happen. He is losing whatever credibility had left.
AFVol423 writes:
Last week there was a post that accounted for players from previous recruiting classes. It's mind boggling the number of kids that were recruited and are no longer with the team. I'm not sure of the answer but along with recruiting great athletes, they need to be of good character to prevent the accademicly disqualified and "incident" disqualifieds. Looks like in recent years we have been loosing more recruits than we keep.
Colliervol writes:
Would he be the one who called the phantom interference penalty on Anderson in the end zone? That was as pretty a play by a DB as you will see. I almost threw my shoe through my TV on that one.
DaVols writes:
uh...WRONG!
volswithclass writes:
excuses - excuses - everybody has injuries
1974Vol writes:
Yeah just ask the Sooners. It's not excuses if it's true and impacts your performance its called "reasons" then. Doubt you are a Vol or have any class.
TK writes:
What ever happened to Chris Donald at LB? Is he hurt? Or is a couple of walk-ons playing in front of a Parade AA? Did the coaches think about moving Gerald Williams back to LB?
transplantiam writes:
I watched both those games too! Ole Miss should have been up at least two tds. on LSU in the first qtr. Sorriest officiating I've ever seen. Of course, the Tn. game was the same way. What can we do to get the SEC to provide decent and fair officials for any and all games.
GO VOLS!!!
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