Crompton kicks field goal for offense; 'surprise' for Berry against Kentucky

Tennessee held a light-hearted session at the end of practice Wednesday in which the offense and defense competed to convert a field goal attempt.

The offense was successful when quarterback Jonathan Crompton booted the ball through the uprights from about 20 yards. The defense was undone by a poor kick by cornerback Dennis Rogan, which Kiffin said barely made it to the line of scrimmage.

"The offense gets to eat tomorrow after practice," Kiffin joked afterwards.

Berry was the holder on Rogan’s field goal try.

"He was not a very good holder," Kiffin said.

Holding aside, there may be another role for Berry on Saturday.

"We have a surprise for you Saturday," Kiffin said, referring to Berry.

Kiffin declined to clarify. Berry carried the ball three times for 26 yards last year against Kentucky after lining up at quarterback.

Kiffin said cornerback Art Evans’ availability will be a game-time decision. Evans has a sore shoulder.

Defensive ends Ben Martin (hip) and Chris Walker (elbow) did not practice Wednesday. Walker suffered his injury during Tuesday’s practice.

Kiffin said linebacker LaMarcus Thompson practiced well Wednesday. The junior missed practice last week and the Vanderbilt game with a shoulder injury.

Kiffin said cornerback Marsalous Johnson (thumb) is fine and will play Saturday.

Kiffin was pleased with Wednesday’s practice.

"I thought practice was good today, a very spirited practice again," Kiffin said.

UT’s players will be released for Thanksgiving after a morning practice on Thursday. They will reconvene around noon Friday.

Austin Ward contributed to this report.

© 2009, Knoxville News Sentinel Co.
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