Posted by Oenoboy on October 28, 2007 at 2:12 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I give everyone just one grade...a big fat W!

GO VOLS!!!!

Posted by chucker6 on October 28, 2007 at 2:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I felt sorry for SC. With inferior talent they clearly fought harder than the Vols but just made too many mistakes. UT was lucky enough to win, just. Once again, the Vols coaching staff gave up on the run early, Ainge was his predictable shaky self under pressure, play calling was predictable and too conservative, and the defense looks like a prevent defense no matter what Chavis calls it. Once again a mediocre quarterback has a Heisman worthy night. I've been a Vol fan for over 50 years but if it takes the team losing to get Fulmer and his buds out of there then let it happen. He is way too happy with mediocrity and is apparently clueless about what it takes to motivate and develop players. Tennessee's 2nd half collapse was yet another example of Fulmer playing not to lose and by so doing almost losing again. The saddest part is that Fulmer doesn't get it. He probably actually feels he beat Spurrier. The far superior coach almost beat UT with a lot less talent, but much more spirit and intestinal fortitude than what UT showed most of the game. Sad and frankly disgusting performance, again!

Posted by snafu14u on October 28, 2007 at 2:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)

The football gods were wearing Orange today and there was nothing Spurrier could do about it.21 point lead at halftime and we have to come from behind in OT.The Big Orange Sphincter finally relaxed at the end.Highest verticle jump in twenty years.Enjoy the win and just shake your head.bonzaivol

Posted by slovog on October 28, 2007 at 3:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)

The far superior coach hasn't beaten Fulmer in a couple of years. But I'm glad to know that the loser/haters are out there, spinning like he!!, figuring out just how terrible this win truly is.

Ah ... the Big Orange Sphincter. Wasn't that who Linus waited for at Halloween? Gosh, I just never realized what master's of wit you guys have developed into. Truly hilarious, funny boy.

What is truly miraculous, though, is how South Carolina and Steve Spurrier morphed from and unbeatable coach and talent pool into this poor quivering heap of useless flesh that just about beat the (insert insulting nickname for Fulmer here).

Well, I bet Saint Steve and his turkeys are back home in Columbia. I'm sure they'd welcome you there if you'd care to join them. Really. Go.

Posted by jimmy71 on October 28, 2007 at 3:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I couldn't feel worse about a V. To be honest, half of me was hoping to tank the rest of the season so as to serve as a catalyst for change, but that was befor the Fla loss. Oh well, let's see if we can win the SEC with the absolute worst defense ever.

Posted by killer65forevervol on October 28, 2007 at 6:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)

This grade card was quite conservative..... To start off the 1st quarter 21-0 and go downhill from there speaks volumes to Vols team preparation. One problem with the team is lack of full pads practices during the week. They play like they practice. UT has only played one game this year worth calling Tennessee football and that was against Georgia. Defensive backs, F on grade card as Slade must GO. He does not reinforce aggressive tackling or wrapping up. They tackle like its a flag football game. Cutcliffe and his "pass only" game. Another 80/20 pass over run game. You cant win in the SEC passing only. Cutcliffe has alterior motives regarding his offensive coaching. He must have left his medication home on the Georgia came as that was a miraculous wake up for fans and players. God bless that we can win out the rest of our games. Yesterday was pure luck as it was definately not coaching that one that one.

Posted by olozbal on October 28, 2007 at 7:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)

My thoughts:
- I know I should be saying "a win is a win" but this was the worst win I've ever seen. We stopped playing coming out of the locker room after halftime. SC wanted it more but just didn't have the solid players to make it happen.
- Am I missing something with the running backs? Why does Foster keep being benched at key moments? When are we going to admit Coker is not Coker any more? Stop calling him a "speedster" because he's not any more. Hardesty is good but keeps getting injured.
- Worst game I've seen Ainge play. His hand bothering him again? He's a good QB but something was off tonight. Tons of overthrows.
- Cutcliffe was off too. Notice very few off tackle runs with guards pulling and trapping that got so many yards in previous games. He went back to the short dump pass game again. Uninspired.

We are just an uninspired team with no emotion. We deserved to lose that game because SC wanted it more. Something is just wrong with this team and I can't figure it out.

Posted by Tanker on October 28, 2007 at 8:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)

The second half letdown is typical of a Fulmer-coached team. No fire, generally bad special teams play, bad tackeling, no mental dicipline and questionable play selection (run/pass mix).

On the bright side any loss by Steve Spurrier is a good thing.

Posted by Ironcity on October 28, 2007 at 8:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)

C+ for the Linebackers? We all no our secondary is bad but it would be nice if once in a while a linebacker would actually cover some one or help cover some one. It would be nice if on a short pass we could actually come up and tackle the receiver before he runs 10 yards down field. Fun game but it reinforced the many problems we have on this team.

Posted by tngeoff on October 28, 2007 at 8:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)

slovog,

Didn't we hear this same obnoxious dribble after the Georgia game? In you are able...look at the second half. Then try to get a grip on yourself. We are not on track for the National Championship. You act like you think we are. Act obnoxious while you can. You'll have two solid weeks to sound like that. Then its murderers row for us. I'll look forward to your comments if we lose any or all of the last three. We all want Tennessee to win as much as you, we just don't get ourselves so excited that we can't see the truth. The truth is that our defense is one (if not THE) of the worst in Tennessee football history and we still have to face two outstanding offenses who want to beat us with a passion. Please stop and think. Just a thought.

Posted by volfan53 on October 28, 2007 at 8:25 a.m. (Suggest removal)

We need to quit looking at this season with orange colored glasses and call it what it is or should be "Fulmer's Swan Song". The game has passed Phil by. With the talent we have we should have only lost maybe one game but look at where we are at. We have become a very predictable team that inferior teams seem to find ways to beat or give us a very hard time. I appreciate all that Phil has done for us but it is time for him to do one more thing, resign. No there isn't another coach out there that is waiting to come in and make it all better but we need to find someone willing to do what it takes to win and motivate our players. Someone who can think outside the box. I don't know who we could get but if we continue on the track we are on now 7-5 will be the normal season. All the other teams in the SEC are improving and we have been stagnent for some time now. I could be wrong but I would rather go in a different direction and reach mediocrity than stay with what we have which is already mediocre. It is time to put a new driver in the seat and give him a few years to get things to where he wants them to be. Go Vols and please Go Away Phil.

Posted by AlpharettaVol on October 28, 2007 at 8:26 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Ryan Succop blinked. Daniel Lincoln didn't. 'Nuff said.

Posted by VOLnATL on October 28, 2007 at 8:31 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Grades given were too generous. Lucky first half at best and even luckier the second. I good offensive drive all game and the rest...SC handed to us. Another pathetic performance and another win resulting in an extension for Fulmer! God help us!

Posted by tngeoff on October 28, 2007 at 8:34 a.m. (Suggest removal)

AlpharettaVol,,

"Ryan Succop blinked. Daniel Lincoln didn't. 'Nuff said."

Thank God for the penalty or that statement would be reversed! How amny times can a team be thankful for an offensive line penalty at a crucial moment? We can!

Posted by mtnvol on October 28, 2007 at 8:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I usually feel good after every win, any win. Not today.

Posted by eb502us on October 28, 2007 at 8:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Coaching, linebackers and secondary grades are way off. We have pathetic offensive schemes and our only two respectable defensive players are Berry and McCoy. How Jerrod Mayo is allowed on the field is beyond me. He can't cover and whiff's on every tackle.

Posted by scvols on October 28, 2007 at 8:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)

My year just got easier to live down here is SC. It was ugly, but it was a win. Come on VOLS, just run the table now. We still have 3 tough games to go.

Posted by Oenoboy on October 28, 2007 at 8:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm sorry you boys aren't enjoying yourselves today. The only pain I'm feeling is in my frontal lobe. Too much vino needed to get me through the second half without destroying my friends big screen.

It was a tale of two halfs, we won the first on and they won the second. We came out with the victory and deserved it as much as they did.

You Phil flushers will eventually get your wish. Until then, can't we just talk about what the game's really about. Folks, this game is about the team, the players, and the school. They're not lucky to have us, we're lucky to have them.

Posted by VOLnATL on October 28, 2007 at 9:01 a.m. (Suggest removal)

"A wonderful team win by our football team. It wasn’t pretty all the time, but it was a darn fine effort," said Fulmer. "A lesser team with a lesser spirit and a lesser will would have lost that game tonight."

What game was he watching? Everything is just peachy now! No koolaid in my fridge!

"We control our own destiny right now – 100 percent – nobody else," said Fulmer.

MMMM...I heard that same line right before we had our arses handed to us by Bama.

Posted by DennisVols on October 28, 2007 at 9:03 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I said last week "It's not that you lose that matters but how you lose". Well flip that around to "It's not that you win that matters but how you win". The team lost it's edge at half and once again the other coach made the better adjustments.
The defense did do what they had to going down the stretch forcing the turnovers after UT had decided to prak the offense in the garage after the first 2 qtr.s.
When will we see this team play a complete game on a regular basis. Just once this year(GA game) did we see a complete effort.

Posted by IPOrange on October 28, 2007 at 9:07 a.m. (Suggest removal)

During halftime, CPF was asked how the team would avoid a letdown in the second half. He smiled and said there wouldn't be a letdown. He really hasn't been paying attention, has he?

Posted by tngeoff on October 28, 2007 at 9:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)

The "charts" were apparently only meant to prepare us for the first half. If only we could find a brilliant solution to prepare us for the second half.

Posted by volsohio on October 28, 2007 at 9:17 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I am tired of the negative comments from "supposed" fans who probably never played a down of college football and never coached a down! Tn talent is down this year and the Seniors, Team Captains and Coaches deserve credit for the team playing above their talent level. Tn had a top 3 recruiting class and the talent will improve next year.

Posted by cphil on October 28, 2007 at 9:19 a.m. (Suggest removal)

tngeoff, I hadn't thought about it but you made a great point about the motion penalty we had in OT. I don't think I can ever remember a team profiting so much from a penalty on themselves. (Not counting the common delay of game penalties teams intentionally make to get extra room for a punt, etc.)

Posted by k0605 on October 28, 2007 at 9:23 a.m. (Suggest removal)

How 'bout an L for lucky. Tenn didn't deserve to win this game. Thank goodness they did, but it certainly didn't give me any reason to be optimistic. The linebackers are too small, can't run like they need to and don't tackle at all in the open field. I saw them out of position over and over.
This team is not getting better in any phase.

Posted by cphil on October 28, 2007 at 9:23 a.m. (Suggest removal)

volsohio, I disagree with you 100%. Talent is NOT down this year. We've had top recruiting classes year in and year out for the past decade. Utilizing that talent with good coaching is what's down, and has been for several years. We won because of inherent talent in our players in spite of the poor preparation from the coaching staff.

Posted by volsohio on October 28, 2007 at 9:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)

cphil, what are your coaching credentials...Also, our team speed speed is down for our key playmakers. Early defection to the NFL and losing the top three cornerbacks has hurt this team. Again, are you really a fan?

Posted by blhvols on October 28, 2007 at 9:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I agree with one poster. Ainge is not very good under pressure. I think he is fearful of getting hit and injured at the same time. No scrambling or throwing accurately while being pressured.

Posted by utvols1 on October 28, 2007 at 9:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)

those grades stink. LB getting a C+? Coaching C? Easily one of Cuts worst called games. LB's were out of position almost the entire 2nd half. TYPICAL fulmer 2nd half melt down. How could any head coach say he doesn't know what happend out there? Why does he even wear a headset? He never says a word in the damn thing. He's totally not engaged in the game that's why he doesn't know whats happening.

Posted by callen825 on October 28, 2007 at 9:45 a.m. (Suggest removal)

scvols...we have 4 tough regular season games to go. I'd be nervous with Slippery Rock (no offense to those alums) on this schedule, with this group of coaches.

Posted by sgtvols on October 28, 2007 at 9:45 a.m. (Suggest removal)

typical offense & defense second half. look at all 3 loses, slaughtered in 2nd half. even the wins were terrible second halfs. how bad do you have to be to get fired at UT?

Posted by mtoms1272 on October 28, 2007 at 9:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)

We won because SC played horrible and made more mistakes than us. It has to be killing Spurrier to see all those mistakes. The defense gave up 501 yards. I have never seen a UT defense this bad. I'll take the W but, we can't play that way the rest of the season or it'll be "hello Memphis" for the bowl season

Posted by frbologna on October 28, 2007 at 9:57 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Give South Carolina some credit. That was the best Defense we've seen all season.
Their defense allowed them to get back into the game. Everytime we completed a pass they were there to make the tackle. Ainge had a difficult time finding anyone open. I do think we should run the ball more on First Down.
This is a wild and crazy season. Alot of Football remains. Lets get better next week and be ready to beat Arkansas!!

Posted by vol4good on October 28, 2007 at 9:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I concur with most of you, however, I would like to add that Ryan Karl had some really good tackles behind the line. Eric Berry should be returning Punts, and Rico McCoy is possibly the only true bulldog TN has on this Team. 14 tackles, WOW--Sometimes it's better to be lucky than good.

Posted by tngeoff on October 28, 2007 at 10 a.m. (Suggest removal)

sgtvols,

We agree!

Posted by cphil on October 28, 2007 at 10 a.m. (Suggest removal)

volsohio, no, I've never been a head coach of a college or pro football team, but I can read. Year after year, we've been ranked in the top ten on or recruiting classes. Sure, we've lost good player to graduation, the NFL and injuries. But, the lack of fundamental play, preparation and enthusiasm is so obvious Ray Charles could see it. It's the coaching staff's job to have players ready to step in to fill those gaps when one exists. It's because my blood runs orange that I'm so concerned about the state of affairs in the football program.

Posted by tngeoff on October 28, 2007 at 10:01 a.m. (Suggest removal)

cphil,

It was amazing. A terrible mental blunder ends up giving us the game instead of losing it!

Posted by govols96 on October 28, 2007 at 10:06 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Fulmer and Cutcliffe should be embarrassed that a kicker had to save their butts. Horrible offensive gameplan in the second half. Do they know how to call anything other than a screen pass. THROW THE BALL DOWN FIELD!!!!!
Thank You Daniel Lincoln.

Posted by TommyJack on October 28, 2007 at 10:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Volsohio: are YOU Knute Rockne?

Posted by jcvet on October 28, 2007 at 10:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Why do I feel worse this morning than I do after a loss? Could it be I think Ark. may break the all time NCAA rushing record against TN and Ky may break the all time passing record for any game ever played? We've got to clean house.

Posted by B_A_VOL on October 28, 2007 at 10:19 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Defensivw Backs (B-). What game were you watching? Those receivers were wide open. Bless his heart, but #13 was in LaLa land. Poor tackling. I know we had decent play from Willingham and Berry. But my gosh, we gave up over 500 yards on defence. How could that be anything but an F.

Posted by Volalumnus on October 28, 2007 at 10:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Out scored 24 -6 in overtime and second half.
The team in second half in my opinion looked worse in this game than in either the Fl or AL games.
Thankfully they had 21 point lead.
I wonder when some say they are a vol fan though do they mean the program or the one person because if you are for the program, it is hard (impossible) to be for the one person and vice-versa.
When you give the wheel to someone and they show they are about to wreck, it time to take the keys.
And after all it was never their car to start with, they were just trusted with the keys with the expectation they would at least keep it on the road.

Posted by Pullingguard on October 28, 2007 at 10:25 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Where is the magic of Cutcliffe in the offense. This offense really sucks. Nothing in the Ala and SC game which resulted in a loss and a lucky win. The Ref's tonight were dressed in Orange. Vols got all the marginal calls and some that were not so marginal but questionable at best. Defense gave up over 500 yards for the second straight game and Chavis was on the sideline looking lost and OLD in his job. It was a win, lucky win, undeserved win, but none the less a win.. Take it and hope Vols get by homecoming this coming week.

Posted by Volalumnus on October 28, 2007 at 10:30 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Who cares if are talent is still down this year or not.
It isn't anywhere close to the poor level of play that has been displayed or the fact that we were destroyed by a team with less talent and outscored 24-6 by another in the second half and only won by fumbling the ball forward. If they recovered that fumble, what would have been the excuses given for the total 2nd half debacle?
For all those not wanting a change, I wonder how many "f"s would you allow you children to bring home before you demanded a change.

Posted by Volalumnus on October 28, 2007 at 10:31 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Who cares if are talent is still down this year or not.
It isn't anywhere close to the poor level of play that has been displayed or the fact that we were destroyed by a team with less talent and outscored 24-6 by another in the second half and only won by fumbling the ball forward. If they recovered that fumble, what would have been the excuses given for the total 2nd half debacle?
For all those not wanting a change, I wonder how many "f"s would you allow your children to bring home before you demanded a change.

Posted by arkyvol on October 28, 2007 at 10:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)

man, i wish that the writer of this column had been passing out grades when i was a student at UT. talk about an easy grader! giving the team and the coaches passing grades for going up 21 points in the first half is like giving the weatherman credit for a sunny day. they just happened to be on the other side of the scrimmage line when carolina was committing hara-kiri. as for the second half, when SC decided to quit doing the vols favors--well, it damned sure won't make any UT highlight films.

Posted by 10ACVOL on October 28, 2007 at 10:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)

This win is a trap in disguise for Fulmer..watch and see. Now the expectations are rising, which means the letdown, if there is one, will be even that much bigger.
Players of the game: Jacques McClendon and Chris Scott

Posted by volnmdtn on October 28, 2007 at 10:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I have loved the University of Tennessee all my life and I only want what is best for this university. Is it in the best interest for the university to keep Coach Fulmer, or is it in the best interest to find a new coach at the end of the season? My loyality is to the university and not to a single coach regardless of who he is. Do you remember Randy Sanders? Was he the probelm at that time or just a scapegoat! Regardless of what you believe, keep Fulmer or release him, let your opinion be known to all that are concerned, this is the democratic way! Go Vols! Hopefully the right move will be made.

Posted by objk1 on October 28, 2007 at 10:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I am not sure if any of you caught the hints that Spurrier was sending out on the ESPN broadcast. More than one segment was dedicated to Spurrier being from East Tennessee.
Sideline reporter quoted him as "I can still remember as a kid my father saving enough money to drive down to Neyland for a home game, I can still remember how it felt when the P.A announcer would say It's Football Time In Tennessee", not exact but close.
It sounded an awfull like a request for a job interview to me.
I hope he gets it.

Posted by DadwasaVol on October 28, 2007 at 11:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)

It wasn't pretty but Fulmer worked like heck more than Spurrier and Meyer did this week.

Posted by TommyJack on October 28, 2007 at 11:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)

objk1: He's the arch enemy...no way do I welcome him...no way. ever.

Posted by marc_ash on October 28, 2007 at 11:07 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Good report card, but there is no way the secondary should have received a B- for their performance. Facts are decieveing. Of the 3 turnovers one was a back foot throw up that was a duck int and the fumble recovery was a gimmie too.

The secondary played horrible, and if we are going to even think at all about beating teams like Arkansas, we have to make some trades.

And please folks, shut up about the SEC championship....we need to win the next game first before people get crazy drunk with Atlanta talk.

Posted by movol77 on October 28, 2007 at 11:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)

AlpharettaVol,,
"Ryan Succop blinked. Daniel Lincoln didn't. 'Nuff said."
tngeoff,
Thank God for the penalty or that statement would be reversed! How amny times can a team be thankful for an offensive line penalty at a crucial moment? We can!

Ryan Succop blinked. Daniel Lincoln didn't. Nuff said again.

Posted by nextyear on October 28, 2007 at 11:15 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Arian Foster almost lost us another SC game with an untimely fumble. Erik Ainge is a 'deer in the headlights' under any pressure he feels. LB's and DE's are very weak. 33 should not be returning punts. Many times whenn 99 comes into the game, the QB changes the play and runs right at him and we are 'gashed'. BUT, the real root cause problem is COACHING.

I was at the game and glad we won, but Phil should resign now!!!

Posted by objk1 on October 28, 2007 at 11:26 a.m. (Suggest removal)

TommyJack: I also agree that he is the enemy, I remember the can't spell Citrus without UT comment.
Fact: The guy can recruit, coach, motivate, inspire and most of all take inferior talent and make it relevant (i.e. Duke).
Believe me, I have been one of the most ardent Spurrier haters but he is the best candidate for the job.

Posted by TommyJack on October 28, 2007 at 11:30 a.m. (Suggest removal)

OBJ: we agree to disagree...we need someone with stay power and energy..Steve is well north of 60 (despite the hair dye)...plus, I just don't see hiring a hated rival...there are other candidates out there.

Posted by shopsports on October 28, 2007 at 11:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Is Cutcliff coaching Ainge into the NFL or for the Univ of TN offense and team? The same goes for Ainge. He seems self centered, distant from the team on the sidelines, and is doing worse each game. Yet, the media still talks about him in the NFL....WHO CARES?? Finally, a good day in the SEC; we deserve to lose and don't and Gators suck!!!

Posted by objk1 on October 28, 2007 at 11:49 a.m. (Suggest removal)

TJ- Am I correct that you think we need a change?
If so who is your choice, and who stays off this staff if any.
Troop must stay.

Posted by FLVol on October 28, 2007 at 11:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I don't agree about the inferior talent on SC. People keep stating this in their blogs. Carolina's overall talent is better than what we have especially on defense. TN talen level is somewhere in the middle of the pack and it's a miracle to me that they have won 3 games in the SEC so far this year. This team is much better at home obviously than on the road.

Posted by brdteton on October 28, 2007 at 11:57 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Tennessee wins.....

And Chucker cries, cries, cries.......

Tennesse wins and Shopsports cries,,,,,,

Our team 'deedn't' d'serve to ween'...

They cry...... Them and them other fellers.

And yet, 'their' team is atop the topsy turvy SEC East, where every team is dealing with trying to win one week at a time.....

Lets hope the Vols don't win out, or these guys might cry themselves 'to deaf'.

Posted by papavol on October 28, 2007 at noon (Suggest removal)

Dude, we won the game. anyone who is going to cry and b*tch about that needs to find a new team. I guess some of you forgot that this is a football game and there are a few other important things in life. Take your whining asses to vanderbilt. GO VOLS!

Posted by DCSOvol on October 28, 2007 at 12:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)

No,I dont need to find a new team. Those willing to accept that crap last night as TN football do. CPF almost cost us one last night. When you play Steve Spurrier, you do not take your foot off the gas like CPF did last night. Im happy we won, but CPF is still an idiot. The grim reaper is still there, and isnt leaving until U ARE GONE.

Posted by BigUn on October 28, 2007 at 12:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Secondary B-??? I wish I had teachers that gave grades like that when I was in school.

Happy with the win, but another career day for another marginal WR. Another 100 yd day for another RB, with an average of almost 10 yds a carry and the D-line gets a B-?

Mike, you must not just drink the orange kool-aide, but have an IV of the stuff.

Posted by DCSOvol on October 28, 2007 at 12:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)

My greatest source of irritation last night was after halftime. For those of you who have been following the Vols for a while, you know that Spurrier is the master of the second half adjustment. You also know that CPF is not. The only adjustment I saw on the UT sideline was CPF adjusting those 48 inch waist britches. Im happy for the players, but you can keep the entire stale, comfortable coaching staff. I dont hate UT, just the blind that are leading the able.

Posted by DCSOvol on October 28, 2007 at 12:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)

In defense of the DBs, they are very young and got thrown in the fire after injuries. This could pay off in a couple of years WITH THE PROPER GUIDANCE (not Larry Slade). Daniel Lincoln wins the Jeff Hall award for being CLUTCH!!! The secondary wins the Teddy "Big" Gaines award for their "stellar" effort last night. They made a star out of Blake Mitchell.

Posted by DCSOvol on October 28, 2007 at 12:47 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Orange Kool-Aid has been known to cause blindness, unexplainable happiness, and acceptance of mediocrity. Drink with care.

Posted by raynochonspeed on October 28, 2007 at 12:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)

objk1 said: "I am not sure if any of you caught the hints that Spurrier was sending out on the ESPN broadcast"..."Believe me, I have been one of the most ardent Spurrier haters but he is the best candidate for the job."

You guys are geniuses! Those who keep saying let's get Spurrier as our head coach - yes, let's!

Then, let's see...we can get Urban Meyer as our Offensive Coordinator, Pete Carroll as our Recruiting Coordinator, maybe Bear Bryant could send in defensive signals from the grave! Perhaps Jon Gruden would love to be a volunteer assistant again. That'd be just swell.

While we're at it, see if Peyton Manning will be all-time QB, and if Kobe Bryant wants to use his eligibility to play for Bruce Pearl! I'll bet he does!

(For those of you too angry and/or dim to notice, this is sarcasm.)

Posted by Ironcity on October 28, 2007 at 12:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The only play Hefney made all day was to knock the ball out of Berrys hands. Lucky for us Karl was out of position and in the right place to make the INT!
The defense is a mess, the pressure on the offense is crazy. I think Chavis will do the honorable thing and resign. As for Fulmer if he can somehow get us to Atl (highly unlikely ) then he definately comes back, however he has to wake up and make more changes. His trust in Chavis is about to get him fired. I like Ainge, but I look forward to a QB that looks downfield first or will run for 3 yards instead of throwing the ball away. Ainge needs to show more when the going gets tough then he has shown this year.

Posted by ZacharyUTK on October 28, 2007 at 1:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I enjoyed the game. The students stayed in it the whole time.

Posted by VolsorCat on October 28, 2007 at 1:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Thank Goodness for Ryan's A,B,C,D,E *uccop! That was the worst tackling performance by a UT team since.....well, maybe Cal, Florida and maybe the Alabama game......Vols Win....It was devine intervention.....

Posted by raynochonspeed on October 28, 2007 at 1:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Here's what is killing us:

Kenny McKinley (SC) 14 rec 151 yds 10.8 avg 1 TD
D.J. Hall (Bama) 13 rec. 185 yds 14.2 avg 2 TD
Percy Harvin (Fla) 13 touches 195 yds. 1 TD
Chris Johnson (USM) 8 rec. 127 yds 15.9 avg 1 TD
Lavelle Hawkins (Cal) 7 rec. 90 yds 12.9 avg 1 TD

We know who each opponent's best receiver is BEFORE each game - many of whom have killed us in the past - yet we are seemingly incapable of scheming to prevent their big games.

I don't know if it is a tactical issue or a personnel issue - regardless, it has been a plague for a few seasons, leading one to believe it is a coaching issue.

Think these guys are licking their chops:

Marcus Monk (Ark)
Dicky Lyons/Keenan Burton (UK)
Earl Bennett (Vandy) - only just the all-time leading SEC receiver - we will probably give him a soft zone.

Posted by volsfan327 on October 28, 2007 at 1:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)

chucker6 I don't know who you are but YOUR READ MY MIND!! I could not have put it ANY better! You nailed it! I have no other comment to make. "nuf said"

Posted by frbologna on October 28, 2007 at 1:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Did we win the game? Sounds like Majors "Legions of the miserable" are back again.
We have a young team with lots of promise. Eric Berry is great and our O line has lots of depth.
South Carolina is great on Defense. This was a classic SEC battle. It was a great game.
Did we expect to see South Carolina lay down in the 2nd Half?

Posted by objk1 on October 28, 2007 at 1:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Raynoch, try caffeine instead of the hard stuff.

Posted by VolsorCat on October 28, 2007 at 1:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Oh, I forgot a couple of things. D Line grade was an A in the first half and an F in the second. Linebackers are too slow to cover anyone and miss tackles coming through the line for a grade of D and outside of Berry the d backs can't cover anyone and look like matadors out there trying to tackle. And last, but not least Buck Fama!

Posted by jweaver3 on October 28, 2007 at 1:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

DCSOVOL have you emailed Mike Hamilton? I really don't want to hear your s!@#!!! The only one with say about the matter is Mike Hamilton!!! We are hear to support our team and be UT fans, unless you have a $4,000,000 check to pay for Fulmer's exit, then the only thing you can do is support another team or email your displeasure to the AD. I don't want recruits reading your negativity after a victory, not a great victory but a victory non the less!!!
GO VOLS!!!
WIN THE EAST
TXVOLSFAN
It truly has been a weird football season with everyone having losses.

Posted by orange71 on October 28, 2007 at 1:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)

thank god and smokey for the win. i'll take a win any day but if one who played the game enjoyed the second half performance, he must have played without a helmet. if one who follows the game enjoys rebuilding in the headman's 15th year, he must have dropped a barrel in lieu of juice. this is not a banner team. tenn's 3 losses were by team's now ranked 17, 18, 27; last night's overtime struggle was against a team ranked 25. today's poll has 7 sec teams ranked higher than tenn. some accept a team ranked 8th in the conference, that's below average, medocrity; champions pay the price for superority. $2-3 million per year: what's it worth, top 40? top 20? acceptable to you?

Posted by rbhobbs73 on October 28, 2007 at 1:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Just logged on after a long night in Knoxville and the ride home to Nashville.

That is the worst win I can remember in my 20+ years of watching Tennessee football.

Boys, the coaching is atrocious, but there is something that we, as UT fans must start to acknowledge (and most on here do not)...but this Tennessee team is devoid of the kind of talent that wins championships or that we have had in the past.

Save me all of the rhetoric about top 5 recruiting classes. Those figures are given based on the rating (extemely arbitrary as it is) of the kids who SIGNED with Tennessee. It doesn't take into account the ones who never make it to campus. If you go back and look at the recruiting classes of the last few years that have been ranked very high, many of those "superrecruits" have never made it to campus, or have been kicked off the team.

Delude yourselves all you want about our talent level, but the FACT is that the Junior and Senior classes lack the talent that we have seen in the past. When you couple that marginal talent with incometent coaching, you get what we see on the field each week. From Section Z11, the talent level was even last night...the coaching was not. Thanks to 4 turnovers that either prevented South Carolina touchdowns or set up UT touchdowns, the Vols escaped with a win.

Those are the facts. Debate them all you like, but it does not change them.

Posted by jdcdjc on October 28, 2007 at 2:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hey Mike, did you watch the same game I did. You were too generous to the defense. They could not have stopped a good high school team that second half. And I'm not too proud of the offense. I believe the problems all the way around could be fixed with some decent coaching.
Where are the high ranking recruiting classes we have gotten the past few years, the tallent is sure not on the field.

Posted by tngeoff on October 28, 2007 at 2:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

raynochonspeed,

Good observations. Like the column here at KNS said last week, "The Heisman runs through here." If you don't currently have a candidate, we can help. If you do...expect plent of press with us!

Posted by tngeoff on October 28, 2007 at 2:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

raynochonspeed,

Good observations. Like the column here at KNS said last week, "The Heisman runs through here." If you don't currently have a candidate, we can help. If you do...expect plent of press with us!

Posted by volsfan327 on October 28, 2007 at 2:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)

AP Poll just out #24 Tennessee #23 South Carolina

Posted by paulvol on October 28, 2007 at 2:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Our problem in our big losses and close wins is our secondary giving way to much space to apposing recievers for wide open receptions. I would rather us play man to man and stride for stride in our secondary than dropping back in zone defense so far that we can't even get to the ball on the shorter passes until after it is caught wide open for an easy first down 9 out of 10 times. This is killing us and I can't believe that UT coaches and players are not noticing this or doing anything about it. Kentucky will destroy us if we play like this in Lexington.

Posted by DennisVols on October 28, 2007 at 2:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I think if Summit and Pearl do the line ups for UT like they did this week we go undefeated the rest of the year. :-)

Posted by volsohio on October 28, 2007 at 2:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Papavol and frbologna are spot on...most of this post is whining and complaining that does not represent the true TN Fan. Recruits don't need to pay any attention the vast majority of the complainers. The true vol fans don't spend any time here. The ones who do whine and complain and I bet are the same in real life. The players are working hard and SC is a good team. Let's wait and see how they perform with support from Real Tn Fans. I appreicate any win in the SEC!

By the way, I have playing and coaching experience so at least I can understand what the team is experiencing...GO VOLS!

Posted by DenmarkVol_aka_Mbumburu on October 28, 2007 at 2:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)

LOL -- No way the secondary gets a B-. What a joke. They were again shredded, this time for 330 yards.

And the defensive line getting a B-? C'mon. SC had 160 yards rushing. Their offensive line made huge wholes for their backs. And it appeared most of the tackles were (once again) being made by the LBs and secondary.

Lots of stuff to put on the players' charts this week.

And which coaching staff made the better half-time adjustments?

We won this game out of luck -- which we'll all take, of course. But this was clearly the ugliest win of the year.

Posted by asleep on October 28, 2007 at 2:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Didn't deserve to win? Why not? Got lucky? How so? Spurrier wouldn't be saying that if he had won. He would say his team played well at times and had letdowns at times but in the end, made the plays they had to make to win. Come on!!! Yes, our D sucks, and the O looks tentative (again) but this year is just plain weird. Kentucky getting waxed at home by MSU? Florida getting run over by a Georgia team we beat to death just 3 weeks ago? Ugly or not, winning is winning. Remember Ohio State's NC team from a few years back? Beat Bowling Green at the buzzer. Cincinnati took them to OT. Ugly, ugly, ugly. Win, win, win. I'm not making a direct comparison other than to be thankful for any and every win, ugly or not. The problems are still there and need to be addressed, no doubt, but let's keep some perspective. We beat Spurrier and we have a chance to win the SEC East. How about a little excitement about that? Go Vols!!!

Posted by orange71 on October 28, 2007 at 3:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

volsohio: you wrote: "The true vol fans don't spend any time here. The ones who do whine and complain and I bet are the same in real life. The players are working hard and SC is a good team."

Don't you consider yourself a "true vol"? Are you a whiner and complainer? Do you think experience equates to intelligence? Do you always shoot yourself in the foot?

Posted by 99gator on October 28, 2007 at 3:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)

i have said before that at this point i think fulmer should go. there are reasons for that. but, i will respond to some other posts comparing teams throughout the league.

ky- ky is in a situation where they have some high caliber junior and senior talent (that they are not used to having) in a year where florida, georgia, tenn have players that can not get into pg-13 movies.

fl- good news. the cupboard was full when meyer got there and he won with it. bad news... the recruiting classes were not balanced under zook and there are now very few junior and senior players on the field because of that.

usc- same problem as meyer. he has recruited some good players, but they are freshman and sophomores. he has still failed to also find a qb... yet.

georgia and tenn... i don't understand why they are so young. those staffs have been in place several years and there should not be a situation where freshman are having to play everywhere. they have recruited the players they have and should not be in a situation where there are numbers problems or quality problems... unless they just plain miss evaluated some guys, which happens. i don't know what the explanation is there. maybe you all could shed some light.

so, to me, all those things are coming to a head and making for a weird season. let's see ky do this when florida, ga, tenn are not so young. we'll see how bad south carolina's offense stays when spurrier finds a qb. etc, etc, etc....

Posted by jcvet on October 28, 2007 at 3:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Frankly, when I turned on the TV I was surprised to see any UT fans at the game. Who would pay to subject themselves to such incompetence? Some actually had their faces painted. They sure looked like idiots in the second half.

Posted by ONUV on October 28, 2007 at 3:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)

D

coaching staff is as inept as they come.

outermonvolia.com

Posted by DenmarkVol_aka_Mbumburu on October 28, 2007 at 3:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hey, Cut -- Please put this in the UT playbook. Maybe Bruce Pearl can help you...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gHbzQo...

Posted by hiresanders on October 28, 2007 at 3:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Better to be lucky than good. We win in spite of terrible coaching.

Posted by DennisVols on October 28, 2007 at 3:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)

They were only 3,900 above full capisity at Neyland last night. Looks like the idea of all the season ticket holders to stay home so Hamilton would see we are serious about wanting a coaching change is really working.

Posted by littletheyknow on October 28, 2007 at 4:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Remember to pack for Atlanta

Posted by frbologna on October 28, 2007 at 4:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Enjoy this Win!! I am!(It beats last week)
We are in the drivers seat. We have a chance to win the SEC East and Title. Lets get behind this team and get them to Atlanta. Only Kentucky on the road. We can beat everyone left on our schedule. Anything is possible!!

Posted by dlobh on October 28, 2007 at 4:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

We DID play badly. This win DOES feel sort of bad. Fulmer DID get out-coached again (surprise, surprise - we're accustomed to that). However, would you rather be a Vol fan or Gamecock fan right now? And, to be honest, wouldn't you sort of like to play Alabama (probably NOT LSU!) again in Atlanta? I'd love to beat them . . . .

Posted by beachvol on October 28, 2007 at 4:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I agree with most that the grades were too generous, though a bit of credit should be given for a solid first half that allowed us to be in a position to get the win (despite an atrocious 2nd half). The point I want to address regards the penalty on our missed FG. Everyone seems to assume the kicker was not affected when the penalty was called. The whistle blew RIGHT WHEN the ball was snapped. I knew the play was dead, and so did the entire team. How could that have NOT affected Lincoln's kick? I'm not saying the kick would have been good with no penalty, but you can't say the kick would have still been NO GOOD without the penalty. The point is the only kick that was attempted without a whistle blowing during the snap was GOOD. I was surprised the announcers were carrying on about the "fortunate penalty" last night, and I'm surprised no one has brought it up here. Shame on the line for moving before the snap, but it didn't necessarily save the game!

Posted by Plasticman on October 28, 2007 at 4:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I can't agree with the DB's receiving a B-. THey have allowed 2 receivers to break their school records for catches 2 weeks in a row. They typically look completely lost as far as I'm concerned. Not so sure it's lack of talent, but more like horrible coaching. Oh well, as Johnny use to say, "A win is a win is a win"

Posted by Plasticman on October 28, 2007 at 5 p.m. (Suggest removal)

99Gator, injuries, dismissals, etc.. have forced us to play so young in the secondary . Other than that, I do not consider us such a "young" team.

Posted by invisiblekid on October 28, 2007 at 5:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)

rbhobbs, you said it all with this statement: "That is the worst win I can remember in my 20+ years of watching Tennessee football." Nice post all-around. Apparently, the new coaching strategy is to be completely dominated in every phase of the game(save a spectacular kickoff return by Coker) and hope for enough mistakes by the other team to keep the Vols in it. Maybe they can ride that strategy all the way to Atlanta but I doubt it.

Posted by DannyVol on October 28, 2007 at 5:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hilarious win and outcome. We control our own destiny again. Ha!!! If we win out I'm going to laugh until I puke in seeing us in Atlanta.

Anytime Spurrier departs with a loss, it's a good thing...despite how it happened. This is the funniest damn season in the history of college football, definitely in the SEC.

Posted by beatlecakes on October 28, 2007 at 5:47 p.m. (Suggest removal)

One grade that no one has mentioned was an A for understanding. The Georgia and Kentucky score was already kwnown. The Vols knew that a win would put them in control of the East. They won...and will now win out and travel to Atlanta and the team they will be playing...Alabama. Who will amazingly find themselves champs of the west. This time I think the score will be different and we will win the SEC Championship. Not a bad way to spin a crazy season but it will happen...I had the same vision in 99!

Posted by rmb4vols on October 28, 2007 at 6:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Why are so many over anxious fans questiong coaching? Look at the current records at USC, Texas, and Florida. Would Texas have won a NC if Vince Young went to the NFL early? -- Or would anyone of these teams have won an NC if they lost most of their gifted secondary the year of their NC runs? I believe next year will be a hudge year for Fulmer. Opposing recruiters are already saying Tennessee coaches are leaving. -- Wrong! I believe a trip to Atlanta will cure everything! Players will want to stay around for next years chmpionship run! -- and they will have experience!

Posted by jcvet on October 28, 2007 at 6:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hilarious alright. I can't believe that "product" last nite as Hamilton calls it has brought back the Fulmerites on this site. Hard to read anymore.

Posted by rbhobbs73 on October 28, 2007 at 6:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

invisiblekid,

Thanks, I just call it like I see it. I love the Vols, I love my school, and I actually like Coach Fulmer and genuinely hope he can turn it around. I just do not think he can and would like to see him exit gracefully and let UT get some fresh ideas in our program to return to the championship level.

Contrary to a few people's beliefs, that does not make me "not a true fan" as some people have said on this board (those that say that everyone complaining are not "true" fans).

Posted by Titan on October 28, 2007 at 6:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)

What's wrong tngeoff? Six posts (didn't count the dupe) and no call for the Majors/Fulmer investigation?

Posted by FWBVol on October 28, 2007 at 7 p.m. (Suggest removal)

rbhobbs73, from reading your posts, you seem like someone who respect Phillip Fulmer as well as the rights of those who disagree with you. Yes, you can be a true fan and want to see improvement even if that improvement means in the way of a new coach.

The people that I have problems with are those who rip Phillip Fulmer personally with comments you'd expect from a second-tier Alabama or Florida fans. Maybe I'm showing my age, but somebody can expect a displeasure with what the Vols are doing without the "Phat Phil or Fulmoron" cracks. The man has done too much for the university as a player, assitant and head coach to take the name calling some of these posts.

And just because someone supports the coach or university doesn't mean they are a Fulmerite or have been drinking orange kool-aide. Those are the comments I have trouble with and the ones I don't consider true Tennessee fans.

I was taught to disagree and voice an opinion with respect, not bashing others that don't feel the same way.

davywavy, nice sentiment about this being a democracy, but I'm afraid the only voices that will be heard by Mike Hamilton in the coaching decision are those giving six or seven figure donations to UT and I'm not counting the two after the decimal point either.

jwraymond1, don't make a promise you can't keep. I don't agree with most of your posts, but I respect you, and they do add fuel to the fire.

One final grade that doesn't appear on the story. The grade comes from my perspective as a fan in Florida that couldn't be at the game.

ESPN restaurant review by Todd Blackledge-- A+. Litton's is one of my favorite places to eat in East Tennessee. I could almost taste the burger and fries. I was yelling at tht TV, "What about the red velvet cake?" Sure enough, he mentioned it.

Maybe the next time ESPN does a game in Knoxville, Blackledge can make it to Oak Ridge and review Big Ed's Pizza.

Posted by doctorvol on October 28, 2007 at 7:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Just a few thoughts......

The "ice the kicker" timeout with 1:24 to go was as boneheaded as they come-we needed the TO in our subsequent drive. Very lucky to win, obviously, but if we had a TO remaining, I suspect Ainge's panic "fumble" would not have occurred.

I know we'll "work like heck" after we "check the film" to "control our own destiny", but does anyone else feel like that "control" is akin to a blind man trying to keep the car in the road? Doesn't fill one with confidence, does it?

Posted by utmdm on October 28, 2007 at 7:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

jcvet People went to the game to support their team. They painted faces to support their team. Their team won. They are not idiots. There are fans that do the same at schools that have not had winning progams for years or anywhere near the success that Tenn has had in its history.

I think (?) we all want the same thing here - a consistent competitive championship caliber program. People have different perspectives on how we get there. (I fall in the time for coaching change group). Decisions will be made and let's face it - we are limited in our influence other than a one by one basis whether to buy a ticket or buy an orange shirt. Most will not desert their chosen school/team no matter what.

But as the Vol nation we should be united in purpose even though thoughts on the hows may vary. We ALL need to be respectful no matter which paths we each support and united toward the common goal.

Posted by itsgr82bag8r on October 28, 2007 at 7:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Game Summary:

Vols catch every break possible on final drive(forward fumble recovered, interference call, missed kick but get a 2nd chance) and crawl out with what counts...a "W".

If you don't ditch the "dough-boy" & his entire staff you will eventually start having less & less national talent signing because lady luck isn't always on your sideline.

Posted by kesterja on October 28, 2007 at 8 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I've never seen a team get dominated the way we did and still manage to win the game. Personally, I think SC lost the game entirely, and we were the closest team around to take the win. Kind of like when a quarterback falls down with no help from the defense, and they record a sack.

Worst defense I've seen in over 30 years of following the Big Orange. Terrible against the run...worse against the pass.

Posted by cwarden2448 on October 28, 2007 at 8:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Poorly Overrated Report Card...All I can say is if we get rid of Fulmer let's promote Trooper. He's young and energetic not to mention the kids respect him. I would be willing to bet he has some great ideas in that head of his. PROMOTE HIM BEFORE SOMEONE ELSE DOES!!!

Posted by yeavols on October 28, 2007 at 8:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)

left out a catgegory..LUCK- A+

Posted by Volfan1 on October 28, 2007 at 8:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)

jwraymond...good bye and see if you can't take some of those other second tier Alabama/Florida cloned UT "fans" that post here with you. It must be a sad life to win and whine.

Posted by yabadabadoo1026 on October 28, 2007 at 8:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

now dlobh why would you want to play bama in atlanta so they can slap us again--------you really dont think these sorry coaches would make any adjustments for the next beatdown do you????---they are incapable----their plan in a game is "stay the course" and hope other team has bad luck-----this may be a win on paper but it feels just like another loss--- we improved in nothing

Posted by beatlecakes on October 28, 2007 at 9:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

yabadoo: I think every player at UT would like to play Bama again this season, espcially in Atlanta for the championship. Everyone likes a chance at redemption and we are a better team than the Tide...from top to bottom!

Posted by ellisonfamily on October 28, 2007 at 9:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)

There has been multiple mentions about the penalty that gave us an extra kick. That was a pre-play penalty, and the whistles began blowing as Lincoln kicked. Has anyone considered the fact that he duck hooked it because the whistles were blowing? He could have easily made it, but held up. Things are mediocre enough, but let's not make them worse than they are. All that said, why can't we play a second half? Somebody help me. I've never thought PF was a good game coach, but give me a break.

Posted by SmokeDog72 on October 28, 2007 at 9:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Report Card grades given to the defense were far more generous than they should have been. I am thinking D for the secondary, C- for the D-line, D for the LB's.

At least the defense doesn't have to feel guilty anymore about under-performing. The offense looks just as clueless. I think Cutcliffe is trying to be sympathetic towards Chavis. He was making his old buddy look like the schmuck. Now they look equally schmuck-like.

Hopefully, Fulmer will unveil the new-look, ultra-modern, uber-helpful, divinely-inspired "Winning the Second Half" charts Monday at practice.

That should give us the edge for the rest of the season.

Posted by james on October 28, 2007 at 9:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Good ugly win. I would not have rated the defense C-plus, B minus, B-minus. More like C-minus, D, and D. Played a good first half but never showed up in the second half. They looked like watching my other favorite team, the Bengals. Neither anticipates plays nor can they tackle. Still, beating Spurrier is fun. Good luck the rest of the season.

Posted by DCSOvol on October 28, 2007 at 9:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)

sounds like jweaver has had a big ole glass of the kool-aid. I dont care if you are tired of my s##$%$. Keep drinking. Tell me that was an acceptable effort last night. I wanted to puke. Right now, its sad, but I would tell a recruit to avoid this mess for his future's sake.

Posted by dfreeman on October 28, 2007 at 9:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Everyone on this site who says we got lucky BECAUSE of the false start on the field goal need to watch it again. The whistle blew before Lincoln's foot hit the ball (prob during or just after hiked). That is absolutely like someone screaming during your backswing in a golf game!! We got lucky to win, but that penalty had more to do with lincoln missing that first kick than anything else!!

FWBVol, as I remember Big Eds Pizza was the best thing about having to play Oak Ridge!!

Posted by DCSOvol on October 28, 2007 at 9:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Now excuse me, I need to go "chart" and wipe my UT coaching staff.

Posted by DCSOvol on October 28, 2007 at 9:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I loved the UGA celebration. Glad they didnt break it out on us.

Posted by DCSOvol on October 28, 2007 at 9:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I think the chart of the week will be "Cups of Orange Kool-Aid drank by the Vol Nation after another CPF masterpiece".

Posted by volster on October 28, 2007 at 9:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Good point, dfreeman. Anyone noticed the latest AP poll? Seven SEC teams in the top 25, including UT (sorry whiners), and Kentucky is not one of them.

Posted by SmokeDog72 on October 28, 2007 at 9:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)

That crap Georgia pulled against Florida was bush league. Getting a team fired up is great, but it should have some limits. I guarantee you this: Meyer (formerly David Byrne of the Talking Heads) won't forget that next time they meet.

But, in spite of the Pop Warner semantics, I am glad that UGA beat Florida. Glad to know somebody can!!!!

Posted by yabadabadoo1026 on October 28, 2007 at 10:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

beetlecakes I'm sure the team would like to play bama again for rememption but after a spankin like that how in the world can you with a straight face say "we are a better team than the tide-- top to bottom!"----------tell me how you can come to a conclusion like that koolade excluded---"top" includes coaching dont it and you saying our coaching is better than theirs---you are up to your ears in the koolaid

Posted by footballrules on October 28, 2007 at 10:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The vols suck!!! And should have lost!!! Fire Fulmer!!

Posted by DannyVol on October 28, 2007 at 10:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I agree SmokeDog and I was surprised that Richt of all people resorted to that type of BS. It was like "Hey, let's show them who REALLY has no class around here". All it did was wake up and fire up a sleepwalking Florida team...they scored almost immediately after getting a very short field.

Other than that, great game and greater outcome. I'm glad we didn't have to play Georgia while they were in that mindset, but wish we would have caught Florida with the one they had.

Posted by 10ACVOL on October 28, 2007 at 10:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

How about the face mush that Cory Boyd put on Heffney on the 2 yd line as he was going in to the end zone...How many missed tackles did he have?

Posted by SmokeDog72 on October 28, 2007 at 10:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

DannyVol,

Would you also join me in agreement concerning the Urban Meyer-David Byrne conspiracy?

Posted by beatlecakes on October 28, 2007 at 10:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Yabba dabba doo doo:
UT is better top to bottom than Bama period. Even their coach thinks so and publicaly stated the fact. We laid an egg the 2nd half (3rd time this season) but we have never been on the field this year out athleted... UT will be in the SEC Championship maybe against Bama maybe LSWho, who they play does not matter because we have the players to win from top to bottom. If you disagree fine...we will have to agree to disagree.

Posted by Southland on October 28, 2007 at 10:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)

and you all think we are going to win out????? was it lasts nights game that made slovog or whatever his name is, that gave him and his fellow dope smokers think we are going to win out?? not everyone is going to choke like SC but UT shows it quits in the second half

Posted by asleep on October 28, 2007 at 10:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)

99gator,

I don't know about Georgia's issues regarding their having to play freshmen but ours is easy. Of the top 5 projected players for this year's secondary, only Hefney is in the game. Morley (grades), Fellows (team rules), Gaines (injury), Inky Johnson (injury) are all gone. We lost Marsalous Johnson to injury as well. To my knowledge, Vinson, Berry, and Lincoln are the only freshmen getting significant time. It's not an excuse- just a reality of the game but it is reasonable to expect some difficulties in the secondary with all those experienced guys missing. As for the D line and linebacker issues....not enough space! Go Vols!!!

Posted by BigUn on October 28, 2007 at 11:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)

beatlecakes:
"we are a better team than the Tide...from top to bottom!"

South Carolina is saying the same thing about us. Only they didn't lose by 24 freaking points and didn't get dominated like a middle school team.

We don't even deserve to be in Atlanta for the Peach Bowl and probably don't even deserve to be there for the Georgia High School playoffs. I bet Valdosta could hang 28 on our Chavis uncoached D.

Posted by invisiblekid on October 28, 2007 at 11:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Rbhobbs, no problem, we are coming from the same line of thinking and I don't see any need to repost similar comments. I have said since 2005 that what is good for Fulmer is good for the UT program. Unfortunately, with the inconsistency and same mistakes being made year after year( just last night for example Foster fumbles, a defensive collapse in the second half, a false start that could have cost us the game on the kick, no discernable offensive gameplan etc.) I just don't beleive Fulmer can get us back to a level of sustained excellence and competitiveness against the upper level teams. This win put us in control again but the question is for how long. Giving up 501 yard and gaining 62 for a half is not a recipe for success.

Posted by lempga on October 28, 2007 at 11:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)

We need the Gamecock Defensive coach and Major Applewhite on Offense and let Phil recruit.

Jim Bob Cooter can make decisions on sidelines as Head Coach.

Let Nix and Applewhite hire their assistants.

Makes about as much sense as some of this crap that is being posted.

Posted by rbhobbs73 on October 29, 2007 at 12:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)

FWB, I agree there is no reason to discuss Coach Fulmer's waistline, or any of the other childish names I have seen on here.

There are enough problems with the program to discuss, and those problems lay at the feet of Fulmer. Volfans should discuss and debate those issues, rather than make 3rd grade comments.

I hope he can turn it around, I just don't think he can and I am ready for new ideas on The Hill.

Posted by asleep on October 29, 2007 at 12:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)

It does seem unlikely that Fulmer can turn around the program with his current staff. According to Rivals, our issue would seem to be coaching as the talent level certainly seems to be there, at least potentially. New coordintors and continued good recruiting and Phil could relive the glory days. Same coordinators will mean the same results - 8-9 win seasons and mid-level bowls. Not really why I bought season tickets but I love UT football and I love going to the games. Go Vols!!!

Posted by chuck0303 on October 29, 2007 at 1:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)

chucker6 & tngeoff you're right on target. typical Fool-Mer coaching. Hmmm, fired Randy Sanders and now KY is better than us; who's CPF going to fire now and put the blame on? Better enjoy this weekend because the W's will be hard to come by after HC. Fire Fulmer!

Posted by snafu14u on October 29, 2007 at 2:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)

slovog: that was a reference to the Big Orange Nation.I've never called Fulmer a name (not in print anyway)nor will I ever.I have opinions but I don't encase them in name calling.I leave that to others.bonzaivol

Posted by NCCOLTSFAN on October 29, 2007 at 6:01 a.m. (Suggest removal)

slovog:You really must get out more.The sun might help your brain.
I am still waiting on a win against a quality team.
Can you name one?
Lie down Smokey!
slovog doesn't care about the charts!

Posted by The_Archer on October 29, 2007 at 6:35 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Well the D-line and Secondary are graded way too high. I'd give the both a (D).

Posted by tngeoff on October 29, 2007 at 7:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)

chuck0303,

After watching Fulmer and Hamilton hugging so passionately its obvious Fulmer is here no matter what. I guess Hamilton got the message from the real powers in Tennessee football.

Posted by slovog on October 29, 2007 at 7:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)

tngeoff-

I think you meant to write "drivel", not "dribble".

Got your sports mixed up, ya' genius.

See, all you non-losers/haters, this is what we're up against. Look at NCCOLTSFAN's last post. One win against a quality te