On Nov. 29 of last year, Tennessee and Auburn were both shutting down for the season. At 5-7, no bowl bids were forthcoming.
Tennessee at least sent Phillip Fulmer out with a win over Kentucky. Auburn’s finale was a 36-0 drubbing from Alabama, setting the stage for Tommy Tuberville’s resignation a couple of days later.
Fulmer and Tuberville both became unwanted because their respective offenses were a mess. The Vols and Tigers averaged a matching 17.3 points a game.
When they met at Jordan-Hare Stadium last year, it was a tandem exercise in futility — or a punting showcase, depending on how you look at it.
In the decisive fourth quarter nobody could make a first down. Auburn won, 14-12, because it finally did, with 2:04 to play, and was able to run out the clock.
Well, Tigers, you’ve come along way, baby.
Tennessee’s offensive progress in 2009 under Lane Kiffin is measurable, but comes in fits and starts.
Auburn, under Gene Chizik, has been shot out of a cannon. Might the Tigers score 17.3 points in the first quarter Saturday at Neyland Stadium?
Auburn is spewing 45.3 points and 526 yards a game, ranking third nationally in both.
Last year quarterback Chris Todd couldn’t hit a tree on Toomer’s Corner with a roll of toilet paper (OK, permit an exaggeration). This year his pass-efficiency rating of 171.5 ranks sixth in the nation. He has 11 thrown TD passes and but one interception.
No one-trick pony, Auburn rushes for 261 yards a game, fifth best in the nation.
Most important, Auburn is 4-0. Tennessee is 2-2.
Has Auburn really made that much more progress than Tennessee? Tune in ESPN for the answer Saturday.
This we know: UT’s offense has faced one great defense (Florida) and one very good one (UCLA). In winning all four games comfortably Auburn has yet to meet that kind of resistance.
This we also know: Chizik made a great hire when he signed Gus Malzahn as offensive coordinator. Malzahn is in only his fourth year as a college coach but his track record speaks for itself.
His two Tulsa offenses each averaged more than 540 yards per game. In 2006, when Houston Nutt hired him from a high school to direct Arkansas’ offense, the Razorbacks went 10-4 and won the SEC West.
The night Arkansas beat UT 31-14, Malzahn’s offense had a 28-7 lead by the half. I remember thinking I had rarely seen a John Chavis defense seemingly at such a loss about how to defend an opponent.
“It’s a wilder offense than Florida’s,’’ Kiffin said Tuesday. “There’s so much stuff going on.
“My dad (defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin) said it’s like trying to read a book and someone’s waving his hand in front of the book.
“You’re trying to look at what’s going on and you can’t really see it. You can’t focus because there’s so much misdirection and shifting and motion.’’
Tennessee’s new offense, by contrast, is considerably more straight-forward. That’s part design and part reaction.
For whatever reasons, Jonathan Crompton hasn’t advanced as a quarterback like Auburn’s Todd has. Crompton often still seems stuck in 2008.
And that affects his play-caller — Kiffin.
Kiffin eloquently addressed the dual role of play-caller and head coach Tuesday. The task weighs heavier than when he was merely calling plays at Southern Cal and letting Pete Carroll deal with the bottom line.
“When you’re a play-caller as a coordinator, it’s almost impossible to put the team first,’’ he said. “You’re not even watching what’s going on on defense. It’s how can we move the ball, instead of how can we win the game?’’
The coordinator might allow an errant quarterback to plow on and throw through his problems. Not so the head coach.
“I go back the other way,’’ Kiffin said. “We’ve got to win the game. So what’s the best way to win the game?’’
When your QB is throwing interceptions and you can’t always count on your receivers being on the spot, you get conservative.
“Hopefully,’’ Kiffin said, “there will be a game coming up where we can keep moving it through the air.’’
Whether that game is Auburn remains to be seen. So does whether the Vols will even try to make Auburn that game.
Somebody asked Kiffin if the last thing he wants to see Saturday is a shootout.
“I wouldn’t say that’s the last thing,’’ he said. “The last thing is for them to score a lot of points and us not.
“So if they’re scoring a bunch of points, I hope we’re scoring a bunch of points.’’
If that turns out to be the case, it’ll be a far cry from last year.
Mike Strange may be reached at strangem@knoxnews.com or 865-342-6276.
© 2009, Knoxville News Sentinel Co.
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Comments » 66
smashmouth98 writes:
this will be a big test for the Vols. Hopefully we can manage the game and come out with a W!!!!!!
djgovols writes:
Not sure all the blame is on Crompton for our passing wowes but if we cant start throwing the ball get ready for a 4 maybe 5 win season. Lets hope we get some significant improvement at receiver and QB next spring and the coaches continue to teach these young guys up !!!!
All_Vol writes:
If we start to get blown out we better see someone else at QB besides Crompton. He's had more than a fair shot at it.
Vol_in_Mich writes:
This ain't going to be easy. At least we're talking about Auburn & not still talking about the Gators this week. (Almost forgot about Ohio didn't we)
I hate to say it, but this may be one of those "Must Win Games"
GO VOLS!!!
crimsonviper writes:
Montario Hardesty can have the game of his career.Good luck Vols and get after em'.
CHEROKEEVOL writes:
We'll be ok guys,Sounds like Berry might be a lil busy with Auburn.(GOOD)!More than a different QB,our team neeeds its FANS the most!
And we look foward to handing Auburn its first
loss this year!!!GO VOLS!!!!
govols7462 writes:
we HAVE to win this game or this team goes belly up
volcycle writes:
Hard to get a read on this game. UT has played more quality opponents, but UAs schedule hasn't been a total pushover. I have to say UT wins. I just hope the chemistry needed happens between Crompton and the receivers. Keep improving guys!!
Go Vols!!!
TDTN writes:
I still will be shocked if Nick Stephens touches the field again. We are playing a lot of underclassman this year getting them ready for the future, while expecting them to perform now. Kiffin has shown he is more than willing to let the seniors sit while the younger guys are on the field if he thinks it is best for the team. If the battle for the starting job between the two QB's was a close as we are told, I think Stephens would be on the field now to try and win while getting better for next season. Keeping a senior QB on the field sends a message to high school seniors QB's that next year the job is wide open. If Stephens were expected to be the guy next year I think he would be playing now. The remainder of this season may be painful and the wins may be ugly like last week but our turn is coming. Another recruiting class or two and we will be equal to the rest of the SEC in talent. We have already seen a much needed attitude adjustment and the message has been made loud and clear that the Vols are finished being the floor mat for Fla and Bama and LSU and....Go Vols!!
Witch_Doctor writes:
Witch Doctor say interlopers will be interlopers. Witch Doctor say some(real) Vol fans need to set expectations. Witch Doctor say Kiffin will build program but to let interlopers make you believe it supposed to happen in less than 11 months? Witch Doctor say let next season be the judge of Kiffin. Witch Doctor say just keepin' it real..
Bones never lie
*Witch Doctor NOT forget last few seasons without hope because of "DEAN of SEC" coaches that was happier with title than than duty. Witch Doctor say Kiffin not that case.
Bones NEVER lie.
the10sevol writes:
thank you, mike strange and kns. i whined last week about the lack of ohio coverage until late in the week. articles like this are exactly what we need to start our (the fans') game week preparations. well-written, analytical, with coaching backgrounds and team comparisons.
if i'm gonna whine when i don't like your stuff (and i am, trust me), i must give props when earned. great job.
GBO
Witch_Doctor writes:
Witch Doctor agree! Witch Doctor say Crompton only throw (1) interception last week! Witch Doctor say that a positive! Witch Doctor say we won....positive! Witch Doctor say only (1) fumble(guy outta bounds) Witch Doctor say that another positive! Witch Doctor STILL say "head-case Crompton" could go off at any minute and shock the world(Witch Doctor not really believe this either...but more fun too!)
Bones never lie
Witch Doctor say he may be a crazy QB, but he our crazy QB....
GBO
Witch_Doctor writes:
Witch Doctor believe it gonna be a slobberknocker. Witch Doctor say Auburn believe in Auburn. Witch Doctor say this their "stage" to make statement they back. Witch Doctor say Kiffin treated(really you know this too) this last game as a scrimage to see in the first half he could give Crompton confidence...fail. Witch Doctor believe Crompton either step up this week or he coming down. Witch Doctor hope running game strong...This may be the "decider".
Bones never lie
Witch Doctor not attempt to give score but believe Vols walk away with hard fought win.*
*message not endorsed by Bones as they remain neutral in sports. (dang it!)
whatcanbrowndoforyou writes:
We have to get something going through the air no doubt about it. If our passing game don't improve were probably looking at a 4 win season. If it does improve then we are in business. Im a believer so I for some reason think it's going to get better. I've heard of some BIG name recruits going to be in big neyland saturday night so the crowd needs to be loud and proud to show these kids what the orange nation is all about. . . A win wouldn't hurt either. GO VOLS!!!!
SLOBBER_knocker_U writes:
troll
dvols writes:
gus vs. monte.....should be good!
marc_ash#231781 writes:
I will be too...unless an injury occurs. And as poorly as Crompton runs and hangs in the pocket, I wouldn't be surprised if that happens soon.
this isn't about next season, because Stephens won't be the QB next year. He's insurance, like Laimason is insurance. Nothing more than a warm body...which is why Coleman transferred. He would have been warm body #3 had he stayed. Thats why he is now playing schools like Presbyterian.
Just the facts.
Witch_Doctor writes:
Witch Doctor not really making excuses and not talking politics but shamefully I really think the economy has hurt a little.Witch Doctor say bunch of people Witch Doctor know in middle Tenn. cut that luxury out this season.Witch Doctor believe it be a game day sell-out. Witch Doctor say also maybe still some of fence(?)
Bones never lie
Witch_Doctor writes:
"on" fence...
tnlizard writes:
Every game is a must win
tractoronthepole writes:
Interesting to have you as a one game fan.
marc_ash#231781 writes:
Well said Witchy...and what is sad about the situation is how much CLK has done for the Vols in the short time he's been here. We snagged thee #1 recruit in the nation last season in Brown and have a top 3 class so far this year.
Kiffin's goal (as I've been telling everyone from day 1) is to build a powerhouse program and recruit. He's doing that, and will continue to do that.
I REALLY hate to suggest the season isn't important to Kiffin, but in reality, it isn't his or the coaching staff's #1 priority.
Be patient folks...a lot more recruits will come, as will another QB. The old will be out, and the new order of UT football will present itself in the next 2-3 years.
For those of you expecting a miracle, don't...you'll be disappointed...and will annoy the phooey out of the fans that don't expect the unrealistic.
ThurmondEppy writes:
yawn.
lowman4vols writes:
if we lose due to crompton, kiffin will pull the trigger, his reactions this week have been different concerning crompton. book it.
Pullingguard writes:
Whats wrong with the receivers? Is it a coaching problem? You have spring, fall and 4 games and a good coach would have this fixed. The WR coach came with some ?????? marks based on his lack of past high quality experience...One has to wonder about the QB's failing to progress under both Fulmer and Kiffin. Evidently neither have had a Malzahn coaching them up to quality.
tenuscvol writes:
UT 30 AU 24
Berry gets an interception...
Anyway, sure hope that's the way it goes...
GoVols! Beat Bama! (and Auburn)
Witch_Doctor writes:
Witch Doctor say interloper you aint that smooth...Witch Doctor say maybe Crompton the common denominator in both equations. Witch Doctor read most of your previous post..busted.((Witch Doctor give hint* you always too much "over the top".))
Bones never lie
jcoop9909 writes:
keep their offense off the field..they dont have a florida defense, we can def run the ball on these guys..control the clock and score TD's instead of field goals. that is what we gotta do. And pray that if we get into passing situations then Crompton can make the throws
crimsonviper writes:
After reading your post 10 i suppose i should do the same,since i complained several times myself.
props to Mike Strange and KNS,GOOD STORY!
lowman4vols writes:
auburn's run defense hasn't been that good this year. we manage the clock and make a few plays.
vols 24-20.
go vols!
givehim6 writes:
Just a crazy thought but since UT offence i so predictable with corompton at QB UT could do this. Play Crompton and its usual offence on some plays then Stevens and more of a drop back pocket pass at times. Then a NU-gun type offence and then a direct snap to Berry. We have different weapons to use, UT could a coffusing offence also.
xvolx writes:
That old man Kiffin has forgotten more football than you know. You disrespectful punk.
memphis_vol_fan writes:
marcash what is your definition of a miracle? Personally, I think we still can win 6-7 games this year (even with Crompton at QB)
Slystone writes:
Time for a reality check. UT cannot win the big games with Crompton at QB. Obviously Stephens has not shown to be any better in practice otherwise he would be starting. If this team cannot pull out a win against either Auburn, Georgia or Bama then lets pray the recruits stay committed.
marc_ash#231781 writes:
I think a lot of fans were expecting 9 or more wins or felt Kiffin would magically make things a lot better with the coaching staff he brought in. The only problem is, Kiffin knew he was working with a group that was greatly compromised talent wise.
Playing freshmen isn't for flash or flare, it's because they are the best he's got. Yes, Kiffin will give freshmen opportunities toplay in the future, but not a lot will play because he'll have top rated talent already.
Vol fans who believed this would be a much improved team are looking through rose colored glasses. Aubbie is the easiest of the next 4 SEC games folks...Bama, SC, and UGA all have amazing defenses. If the Vols struggled to close out Ohio, those defenses won't be any easier....
marc_ash#231781 writes:
Wins and losses don't have much to do with whether or not recruits stay committed or not. Recruits commit because of coaches, and the relationships they build with them.
The young men that have and are committing to the Vols are doing so because they believe in what this coaching staff is doing. Look at ND a few years back when they only won a few games. Bama recently too when Saban came to town, and the list goes on.
This season will be tough no doubt, but the talent that is coming will make the future look very bright.
Stepchild_nFL writes:
It's Berry at the 50, the 40, the 30, the 20, the 10,
5,4,3,2,1 Touchdooown TENNESSEE!!!!!... Well... Mama always told me to dream.
VolNWA writes:
I had a bad feeling going into the UCLA game and thought we might lose. I felt a little better about Fla. and thought we could hang closer than most thought (I thought it would be in the 14-20 spread range) That said, I have a feeling we get it done Saturday night to go to 3-2.
the10sevol writes:
spot on as usual, marcus.
GBO
the10sevol writes:
au with a suspect d and uT with a suspect o.
au with an explosive o and uT with an explosive d.
so the difference might boil down to special teams...coached by Gran. hmmm, another story line (hint to kns).
GBO
dma38256#264746 writes:
What part of "rebuilding season" do you not understand?
AllVol1 writes:
We have given up 72 points in four games. Auburn has given up 97. Head to head comparison shows that UT run defense is ranked 18th and Auburn is ranked 89th. I repeat Auburn's rushing D is ranked 89th and they have faced teams whose rushing offenses rank: Miss St--22nd, W VA--53rd, Ball St.--82nd, and LA Tech--110th. We will run on Auburn. We ran against the 6th ranked run D (UCLA) and the 23rd (FL). For all the talk of their balanced attack, they ran against meager run defenses. (According to Rivals: Run Defenses Rankings W VA--9th*, Miss St.--63rd, LA Tech--100th, Ball St.-107th.)*Keep in mind that W VA has only played Liberty and E Carolina and Auburn; so their defensive ranking at 9th is unimpressive. My goodness, Auburn better have some significant offensive stats. Will Auburn be able to pass against us? We are 20th in Pass D. They are 44th. There is a good reason Auburn is not ranked. I am not saying we are much better, but Auburn has not really been on proving ground yet. This Saturday, Neyland stadium is proving ground for two schools who are trying to send the message that they are truly turning their programs around. If we can pass, we will win by 14. If not, I still think we can out-slug them, but it may be a nail-biter. I believe in Kiffin. However, this Gus fellow at Auburn is going to be formidable in the coming years. He's made a name for himself. It would be HUGE--HUGE for Monte's D to shut that carnival down cold.
asleep#212036 writes:
I think Malzahn had already left to go to Tulsa by then but I could be wrong.
asleep#212036 writes:
Unfortunately, I completely agree. It's always darkest just before the dawn and I'm afraid we haven't seen the worst of the night yet! Kiffin is willing to trash this year, and maybe even the next, to get us back to where we should be. Our talent deficit with the other top-tier SEC schools is becoming more obvious week by week and you just can't fix that overnight. What you can do is play lots of freshmen and sophomores, recruit like crazy using that as bait, and wait for the new talent and the new-found experience of the up and coming young guys to pay off big-time down the road. I'm ok with that. Go Vols!!!
TommyJack writes:
No diss to Lamaison, but I believe he was signed to be a career clip board holder.
the10sevol writes:
note to kns: hire this person.
GBO
REVOL writes:
The best way to slow Auburn down is run the football, run the clock and don't let their offense on the field. It will also wear down their defense. That's what this offense does best. We also need to play better special teams. We need a big return or two. Go Vols! Beat Auburn!
LibertyVolance writes:
I can only speak for how I feel. Can't speak for others. It's going to be a fun game to see and I like our chances. I've no idea on how it finishes or plays out. I want to see progress and have found some in execution, timing, and the running game. This game won't have an effect on how I judge Kiffin. I do think this game will tell much about how good or bad we might be the remainder of this year. It will take a game like Aub to gage our chances against Ga, SC, and OM.
LibertyVolance writes:
Now come on. How many true freshmen get to start in the sec? Not saying it couldn't happen, but it is unlikely unless Stephens was a complete bust and gave way to a freshmen later in the season. A true freshmen is hardly going to know the offense until a few weeks have passed.
LibertyVolance writes:
Well I know what. Regardless, win or lose, the fulmerfans are still going to be trying to backstab Kiffin and criticize the 09 team. They loved their fatman more than the UT Vols.
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