Posted by BigOrangeHustler on April 6, 2008 at 5:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Nice pickup

Posted by cdonsbach on April 6, 2008 at 5:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)

GO VOLS

Posted by VolPride_13 on April 6, 2008 at 6:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)

YESSSS!! We finally got one and it's a good one!!!

Posted by burntorangeVOLffle on April 6, 2008 at 6:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Did a kid from Philadelphia, Pa. just say TN is a "power house"? And here I thought the rest of the country thought TN is a dying, laughing stock program? Shows what I know...

Fire Fulmer anyway....

note sarcasm.

Welcome aboard young man. We look forward to seeing catch passes wearing orange.

Posted by TNfaninMS on April 6, 2008 at 6:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Rock and Roll baby!!!!
1 down, many to go!!!!
GO VOLS !!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by arkyvol on April 6, 2008 at 7:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)

to paraphrase the famous director, sam goldwyn, an oral contract (commitment) isn't worth the paper its written on. its a long time till february. i hope he feels the same way then.

Posted by Ironcity on April 6, 2008 at 7:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Great to see UT getting back in PA. It use to be a hotbed for UT.

Posted by TommyJack on April 6, 2008 at 7:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Iron: Good point. True.

Posted by KingsportVol on April 6, 2008 at 7:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Nice work Coach Scott.Go Big Orange!

Posted by knoxsingle on April 6, 2008 at 7:22 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Congratulations to Mr. Stokes! We're excited that you'll be a Vol. Can't wait to see you running down the field.

Posted by philfan on April 6, 2008 at 7:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)

"Coach (Phillip) Fulmer is a great man, very spiritual," Stokes said. "That's good because that's how I am."

Almost all of the players Fulmer recruits speak highly of Fulmer. Either the players are lying, they have been conned into thinking that Fulmer is an honorable man, or he really is a good person and they pick up on it right away. Since Fulmer has never been involved in a major recruiting scandal and the players speak so well of him, maybe he really is a great person to work with. Someone on this discussion group once referred to Fulmer as a major embarrassment to the athletic program. I don't think so.

Posted by dogboy on April 6, 2008 at 8:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Welcome to the Big Orange Nation Je'ron. I can't wait to see you in that orange and white...GO VOLS!!!!!

Posted by dburgVol on April 6, 2008 at 8:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Wow! This could not have played out any better. A young Christian man that loves Tennessee and wants to get started out right away recruiting. Great pickup, quality recruit, helps the moms and pops when they here from this type of young man. Exactly what we need. No more potheads. Go VOLS!!

Posted by Volfan1 on April 6, 2008 at 8:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)

"Amen" about the spiritual side to this recruit and no thugs.

Posted by IPOrange on April 6, 2008 at 8:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Great news! Welcome aboard, Je'Ron. Coach Scott is already working on next year's class. Great work!

Posted by BigVolinCarolina on April 6, 2008 at 8:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Glad we snagged a big recruit, but I'll believe it when he signs...anything can happen between now and 2009.

Not trying to be pessimistic, but changes of heart do occur. I'll be praying that his heart stays Orange.

Posted by abills on April 6, 2008 at 8:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)

"It means a lot," Stokes said. "Tennessee is a great program. It's a powerhouse. I wanted to be the first one. With my status, I think I can help bring other players in."

Evidently we are still relevant on the national stage.

Posted by beachvol1 on April 6, 2008 at 9 p.m. (Suggest removal)

According to rivals, he still wants to take a couple of more visits...why??? This is not as firm as one may believe, but cross your fingers!!!!

Posted by thesavageorange on April 6, 2008 at 9:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)

beachvol1,18 and the red carpet treatment.I would too.There is a couple of things he said that make me think he will stay commited.

"Paster Jones took me down to Tennessee two years ago and I fell in love with it then," Stokes said. "When I went back this week I fell in love with the Vols again. I prayed about it with my family and we talked about. I knew in my heart Tennessee was the right place for me so I wrapped it up yesterday.""I didn't know I was going to commit," Stokes said. "I thought I might do it at the U.S. Army game or on signing day. But I knew where I was going so didn't see any reason to wait."

"Coach Fulmer is the man," Stokes said. "He is a players coach. He is spiritual and is going to make you a better person and will be beside you every step of the way.

Posted by miamiVOL on April 6, 2008 at 9:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

good to see new coach wrapping up a top recruit, i love the speed on the edges and if he wants to run track(scout reports 10.7 100m dash), give him a shot

Posted by GreerVol22 on April 6, 2008 at 9:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Fulmer and staff have never made shallow promises of immedaite playing time to recruits or their parents to get them to come to UT. I'm proud to have a coach thats stays the course in this respect.

Posted by Cleve on April 6, 2008 at 9:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Tears in my eyes.

Posted by bricker865 on April 6, 2008 at 10:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Cool! I had a class with Mark (Jones) and he seemed like a great person. Really nice.

Posted by utchris2003 on April 6, 2008 at 10:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)

This is great news. Now if we can lock down Marlon Brown of Memphis (#2 rated WR) we will really cash in.

Posted by Titan on April 6, 2008 at 10:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Mark Jones was one of the most underrated players of all time at UT. He played both ways his senior year and as I recall, his stats were better than a guy named Woodson a couple years earlier who acutally pilfered away a Heisman.

Posted by KingsportVol on April 6, 2008 at 10:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

What Greer said.We are lucky to have a bunch of straight shooters on our coaching staff.I'm dang proud as well.Go Big Orange!!!

Posted by cwisenhower on April 7, 2008 at 12:15 a.m. (Suggest removal)

If the new receivers coach is swaying one of the top recruits in the nation to play for the Vols, you have to believe that our offense is going to be great. At least, that's the analogy that I will go with for now.

Excellent pickup.

Posted by GIVEHIMSIX on April 7, 2008 at 12:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Great early showing for the new offensive staff. The entire coaching staff, but specifically Scott, has done well early in the recruting process. If this is a sign of things to come, expect the 09 class to be one of Fulmer's typical premier hauls. seems like these 1-AA guys have no problem recruting at an SEC school.

Posted by mparker on April 7, 2008 at 1:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)

go find me some DT's and DE's...lot's of 'em. Still, glad the kid is happy with his commitment.

One thing is for sure: UT will get you ready for the pro game. They've moved lots of players up the ladder over the years.

Posted by LadyVolsEighTimes on April 7, 2008 at 2:35 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Welcome!

Fulmer probably is a great coach, the statistics say so anyway.

We are just spoiled at Tennessee, and for that matter the entire SEC pretty much is. At Tennessee we want Championships! Never mind that we are one of only a handful of teamsto have a BCS Crown. Bruce Pearl has teh BBall team looking better and better, and Pat Summitt has the Lady Vols back in the National Championship game. Not to mention a damn good softball team that has went to the WCWS the last two or three years, and was runner up last year.

Never mind all the individual champions we have in the lesser watched sports.

Dammit CPF, we want another BCS Crown! And we won't be satisfied even if we get one, lol

Posted by volunteer_cowboy on April 7, 2008 at 5:03 a.m. (Suggest removal)

beachvol1: Although National Signing Day isn't until February, Stokes maintains he's firmly committed to be a Vol, and won't take any official visits to other schools. "Read" the story

Posted by txsvol on April 7, 2008 at 5:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I agree with thesavageorange's take: this young man's word is his bond. Does anyone else remember when Mark Jones was a senior, and this site reported of a meeting between his father and CPF asking why Mark Jones wasn't starting? CPF told Pastor Jones that he considered Mark to be one of his starters, but he wanted to have him fresh for his reps on offense, defense, and special teams, so Mark (like Manu Ginobili of the Spurs) and his father accepted Mark's role for the good of the team. Obviously this reflects great credit to our head football coach. I wonder if any Top 100 high school OL and DL also attend Pastor Jones' church. Great pick-up to start 2009 recruiting. Go Vols! SAVol

Posted by txsvol on April 7, 2008 at 5:25 a.m. (Suggest removal)

LV8X, didn't notice at first that you had posted earlier. You and Granny Clampett be sure to make the Ramp Festival in Cosby next month. Might find some more medicinal herb festivals that don't reek as much, if you look for them. SAVol

Posted by nicksjuzunk on April 7, 2008 at 5:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Dang right fellas!! Way to go!! This will be a redemptive class! The rumor going around the horn says that the coaches are working the recruiting like never before and maybe it is beginning to show!

Scout has him as the #5 WR

"Stokes is very physical and plays bigger than he is. He is tough to check in man coverage. Stokes possesses sprinters speed and has that extra gear. He has outstanding ball skills and concentration. If a ball is thrown in his direction he is coming down with it. Very intense competitor who lays it all on the line every play. Runs solid routes and will catch the ball in traffic. Bob Lichtenfels/Scout.com"

Posted by txvolsfan on April 7, 2008 at 8:57 a.m. (Suggest removal)

SAVOL, Love the Spur reference, looking forward to a double back-to-back, The Lady Vols and The San Antonio Spurs!!!!
Champions everywhere.
GO VOLS
TXVOLSFAN

Posted by Silent_Fulmer on April 7, 2008 at 9:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Fulmer promised this young man to play in the Georgia Dome. We played in the Georgia Dome 2 straight years earlier this decade.

Posted by richvol on April 7, 2008 at 9:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)

That assessment by Scout is great...if it's true then he will excell in the SEC.

Ironcity,you are exactly correct. UT used to raid the northern states for talent every year. A great many of our all-americans came from there. Now it seems we rarely get someone further north than Cincinnati. We should hire someone with connections to northern high schools to canvas that area. It would seem to me that that the best kids across country would want to play in the SEC.

Posted by sjt18 on April 7, 2008 at 9:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Stokes needs to take his other visits... so he can recruit other schools' visitors like Bama's recruits did this year. By turning away other interest, he may also hurt his chances to go to the All American games... again a chance for him to recruit.

Berry, Walker, and Donald recruiting at the Army AA game helped UT with Paige, Martin, and Jones.

There's definitely alot of comfort and security in a guy that doesn't take those other trips... but it can be a missed opportunity for some unofficial work that could have huge dividends.

This is important due to something I read elsewhere. He's already begun to help recruit PA for UT. UT is in on several good players (about 5 or 6) to include a very good QB named Savage.

You can hold the applause til the end... but I predicted that hiring the Richmond guys would help get UT into their old mid-Atlantic state haunts. Inroads into PA would be huge.

Posted by HotlantaVol on April 7, 2008 at 9:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Ashley - thanks for staying on top of the countdown even with the change to the schedule made last week. Glad to see you're on top of it. Welcome to the Orange, Mr. Stokes!!

Posted by FWBVol on April 7, 2008 at 10:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)

richvol, haven't you paid attention to Dave Clawson's background as well as those of the other new coaches? Clawson is from New York, and coached at Fordham, Lehigh and Villanova. Many of the new offensive coaches have similar backgrounds. These guys to have connections to metro New York, Philly and Washington D.C. and I see a strong recruiting foundation being established in those areas.

Posted by General_Watermelon on April 7, 2008 at 10:23 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm stoked about landing Stokes! Ladies and Gentlemen, this guy is the real deal. I have very knowledgeable friends in the Philly area who has seen him play. Awesome pickup.

Posted by nicksjuzunk on April 7, 2008 at 10:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)

sjt18,

Yeah, it's a shame that we couldn't get that penn connection a bit earlier for Pryor huh? Let's just forget about that though. I don't care for his (apparent) self-centered attitude. I could be wrong in my judgment.

Posted by UTByrd on April 7, 2008 at 10:37 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Committed early so he can help recruit other players. Can I get an AMEN!

Posted by midgetangel on April 7, 2008 at 10:49 a.m. (Suggest removal)

IMAGINE THIS!!!!! Stokes AND Marlon Brown!!! I'm salivating at the possibility!!

Posted by murrayvol on April 7, 2008 at 10:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Fritter: I'm sure Stokes is stoked about being a Volunteer as well.

This is a good start.

Posted by sjt18 on April 7, 2008 at 10:52 a.m. (Suggest removal)

UT didn't need a great QB in the last class. They do need one in this class. If they can establish a pattern of having guys understudy for a couple of years before starting, offensive success will become more consistent.

Posted by PLEASEGETRIDOFTHENOTSOSLIMONE on April 7, 2008 at 10:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)

sjt18 = clown and homer

Posted by GiveHimSix1387 on April 7, 2008 at 10:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Good to see this was Scott's pickup. Sounds like a really good kid. We need more guys like him to represent our university and prove that CPF is not only a good coach but a good person. Great way to start the 09 class! GO VOLS!

Posted by marc_ash on April 7, 2008 at 11:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Very nice little article. This is good news, but so much can happen in the course of the next year. Believe me, other schools will still be trying to recruit him. IMO, I think he should go on his other visits. If he still likes what he see's in Knoxville, then more power there. Also, he could possibly sway some other commits from other schools to Big Orange Country.

Posted by TommyJack on April 7, 2008 at 11:52 a.m. (Suggest removal)

sjt: pleasegetrid just slapped your face with a glove.

Posted by ATLVOL1 on April 7, 2008 at 11:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)

WE HAVE 1 RECRUIT AND HE WOULD HAVE BEEN OUR #1 LAST YEAR TOO...LOL

ABRAMS WARD ON ONE SIDE AND THIS KID ON THE OTHER IN THE FUTURE...NICE!

Posted by invisiblekid on April 7, 2008 at 12:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Stokes should be a fine addition to the program and I look forward to seeing him in Orange.

In the not-so-good-news department, has anyone taken a look at recruiting for LSU and GA? LSU has 10 verbals including 6 guys rated 4* or better and GA has 7 verbals. Of course, most of these are in-state recruits and it just illustrates the point that Fulmer and company finds themselves behind the proverbial 8 ball every year in recruiting. Bottom line for me is these verbals aren't worth the paper they're written on and recruiting doesn't really get interesting until January.

Posted by givehim6 on April 7, 2008 at 12:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Stokes sounds like the kind of recruit UT wantes, talented, good christen values, loves his school! the kind of guy that will do a good job for us and won't end up getting suspended. And Scott helped bring in, way to go new choching staff. GO VOLS!

Posted by marc_ash on April 7, 2008 at 12:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Posted by volunteer_cowboy on April 7, 2008 at 5:03 a.m. (Suggest removal)

beachvol1: Although National Signing Day isn't until February, Stokes maintains he's firmly committed to be a Vol, and won't take any official visits to other schools. "Read" the story

Although I appreciate your enthusiasm, a verbal commit is not something one should hold their breath for. UT has been on the other end of the stick many times, and until he arrives on Rocky Top, I ain't buyin what he's sellin.

The article does state that he is happy with UT, but we all know that a lot can change in the course of a day...more less in the course of a year. I personally believe we lost some recruits that were coming to UT this season with the surfacing of a number of back to back off the field incidents.

Anything can happen and I hope this commit is dedicated. It would be a great pick up, but until a pen is put to paper...other schools will be lurking.

Posted by losvolsganan on April 7, 2008 at 12:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)

PLEASEGETRIDOFTHENOTSOSLIMONE = llorona

Posted by sjt18 on April 7, 2008 at 12:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)

TJ... As I imagine what you said, I'm seeing a Michael Jackson looking character pulling off his one white glove and giggling as he slaps my face.

pleasegetridof's posts have been so ridiculous for so long that he's become part of the background noise... sort of like your wife trying to extract an opinion about the color of the drapes during a f-ball game.

Having pleasegetridof cast stones at you is the gvx version of winning a nobel prize for football intelligence.

Posted by jimr07 on April 7, 2008 at 12:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)

PLEASEGETRIDOD--i know this is a disappointment to you. i know how much you like fulmer and co. sorry that it is bad news for you.

Posted by jimr07 on April 7, 2008 at 12:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Again, i do not know why everyone is so hung up on the number of stars. for many years i saved all the Tom Lemming, Max Emfinger ratings, the Parade Magazine all america team and it is amazing how few made the grade. I compare a lot of this to the first round picks in the NFL and how few actually made the grade. it is up to the coaches to evaluate the players. it is their job on the line not Rivals or Scouts.

Posted by volunteer_cowboy on April 7, 2008 at 12:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)

marc_ash i was just stating that he said he wasnt taking visits to beachvol..

Posted by TommyJack on April 7, 2008 at 1:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)

sjt: I can't really disagree.

Posted by WorkinLikeHeck on April 7, 2008 at 1:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I guess he's not coming here to play in BCS Bowls??

Posted by jimr07 on April 7, 2008 at 1:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

way to go workinlikeheck--one of the naysayers. way to go. love your attitude.

Posted by WorkinLikeHeck on April 7, 2008 at 1:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

who has an attitude? Since I got blamed for ruining last year's recruiting class, I figured I'd actually get started early this year so I am not playing catch up. Imagine the damage I can do starting now as opposed to August??? I just hope you can handle it.

Posted by Colliervol on April 7, 2008 at 2:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Sjt, if being a loyal and knowledgeable fan (and one that can carry on an intelligent debate without using the terms "Foolmer", "Phats" or other classless terms) classifies one as being a "homer", I'd wear that tag proudly if I were you. Pleasegetridof and WorkinlikeHeck (or whatever his/her name will be next week) needn't worry because they have no chance of qualifying given the aforementioned requirements.

Good one on the Michael Jackson analogy by the way. And the comment about them being "background noise". Pretty much says it all. If one can focus for longer than 5 seconds, it's easy to filter out background noise.

Posted by WorkinLikeHeck on April 7, 2008 at 2:22 p.m. (Suggest removal)

It's interesting that Colliervol's posts conveniently appear right after mine. He sits there ready to respond whenever I make a post. Talk about dictating behaviour.

Posted by marc_ash on April 7, 2008 at 2:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

volunteer_cowboy,

I understand. I agree that it is reported what he has "said", but that could turn on a dime. I'd like to be optimistic too. Hope I'm not disappointed.

Posted by Colliervol on April 7, 2008 at 2:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Don't flatter yourself CR. Considering this is the first time I've been on in about a week, it's a coincidence. It's still a little difficult for me to let idle nonsense go by but I'm learning.

By the way, what name will you be using next week?

Posted by WorkinLikeHeck on April 7, 2008 at 2:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

A coincidence? I think not. You also claimed you were going to ignore me and that hasn't exactly gone too well either over the past 7-8 months. Better luck next time though, I am sure you'll need it.

Posted by General_Watermelon on April 7, 2008 at 2:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)

WorkinLikeHeck - you're no TDTN.

Posted by WorkinLikeHeck on April 7, 2008 at 2:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Posted by Ashley on April 7 at 7:20 a.m.

147 days till Football Time In Tennessee!!!!!!!!

Ashley, what exactly is "till"? Is that what they do to the land in Roane County?

GF, no way I could ever be TDTN. He was this site's Candace Parker like Ainge was for the football team according to Fulmer.

Posted by jimr07 on April 7, 2008 at 3:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)

workinlikheck--you are depriving a village somewhere in the world of having its own idiot. Majors is not the coach and all the bitching you do will not bring him back.

Posted by bigbluevol on April 7, 2008 at 3:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

More on Stokes from the Philadelphia Inquirer:

http://www.philly.com/inquirer/sports...

"Stokes, a talented hurdler and sprinter in track, received permission from Tennessee coach Phillip Fulmer to also run track in college.

'That is only going to prepare me for the next level in the NFL,' Stokes said of running track. 'They have everything I'm looking for in a football program. They have a team mom, a preacher that is full-time on the staff. . . .

'I'm going to go down there and represent Philly.'

Posted by jimr07 on April 7, 2008 at 3:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

workinglikeheck--i think i can handle just about any insulting remark you make. i consider the source.

Posted by WorkinLikeHeck on April 7, 2008 at 3:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Majors? LOL!!!!!! Nice try.

Posted by WorkinLikeHeck on April 7, 2008 at 3:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Name the last track/football guy that was able to do both sports effectively? Jonathan Wade? Robert Boulware? Leonard Scott?

Wade was effective only after he quit track and concentrated on football.

Boulware quit football to concentrate on track

Scott had hands of stone and was the fastest player to the 14 yard line on kickoffs.

I guess he has a better chance to win a national title with the track team than he does with the football though.

Posted by jimr07 on April 7, 2008 at 3:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)

workinlikeheck--you know you do want him back. be honest, what about the football program and fulmer do you not like. all you do is bitch and never any CONSTRUCTIVE criticism. just complaints. tell us what is going to make you happy about the football program.

Posted by WorkinLikeHeck on April 7, 2008 at 3:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Majors? Why would I want him back? He's been retired for what 11-12 years now and away from the game.

Posted by jimr07 on April 7, 2008 at 3:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)

workin--you didn't answer the question. what would make you happy? or, if we were successful would that take away your opportunity to complain. that's it. you are just a constant complainer.

Posted by Colliervol on April 7, 2008 at 3:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Relax CR. I was just fishing to make sure it was you. Now I can set the BS filter on my computer to cover Workinlikeheck too. I have to be careful though. The memory will only take so much BS or idle nonsense and then it issues a "hipboot and shovel" warning on the screen.

If you would be so kind as to let us know just who you'll be next week, it would be helpful so I can set that one up in advance. I really never liked fishing.

Posted by auttat on April 7, 2008 at 3:22 p.m. (Suggest removal)

jimr07, just ignore the lady. Arguing with her only encourages her actions.

Posted by WorkinLikeHeck on April 7, 2008 at 3:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I'll have my reply to jimr's question in a little bit so be patient. I love how Colliervol comes on here to lie to himself again and again.

Posted by jimr07 on April 7, 2008 at 3:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

colliervol--you are a good man. i am just as happy about this committment as anyone. it is good to get back into that area of the country. many moons ago, Gen. Neyland got who he wanted out of there. many greats from that area. John Michaels, Andy Kozar, Bert Rechichar, Gordon Polofsky. those are some of the names of the past i remember.

Posted by nUTsack on April 7, 2008 at 3:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)

whoa. I can't remember last week. Impressive knowledge.

Posted by nUTsack on April 7, 2008 at 3:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Fan or critic. Everyone should identify themselves.

FAN HERE

Posted by invisiblekid on April 7, 2008 at 3:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)

"You can hold the applause til the end... but I predicted that hiring the Richmond guys would help get UT into their old mid-Atlantic state haunts. Inroads into PA would be huge."

Sorry sjt18, but I am laying claim to that award as well LOL:
____________________________________
Posted on January 8 at 6:04 p.m.

Not that my opinion counts, but I would rather take a chance on a relative unknown like Clawson as opposed to turning UT into Michigan South. Said it before, but if DeBord couldn't get it done in the Big 10, no reason to think he would improve in the SEC. Clawson looks like a good candidate, the biggest issue would be name recognition when it comes to recruiting in the South. On the flip side, he could help improve the Vols recruiting in the Northeast. Seems to be very cerbral, well-respected by his peers, and successful in every opportunity given to him.

On UT interviews Richmond coach Clawson
_______________________________________________

Posted by sjt18 on April 7, 2008 at 3:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

jimr07,

If you watch a few of these posters awhile... you'll begin to answer your own questions about them.

I'll give you a starter. Some people won't be satisfied with anything. They have a compulsion to whine and complain... somehow they crave the attention. They seem to get off on irritating other people... somehow that ranks as an accomplishment.

Posted by nUTsack on April 7, 2008 at 3:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Coach first, players will come with wins and exposure.

Posted by sjt18 on April 7, 2008 at 3:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)

invisiblekid, Glad to share the credit with you.

Posted by nUTsack on April 7, 2008 at 3:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Coaching staff - check
Facilities - check
History - check
Fan base - CHECK
Ability to win championships of late - ?

Posted by WorkinLikeHeck on April 7, 2008 at 3:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

We’ve been down this road before. I want accountability. I can go and on and give numerous examples of things I want changed. Can Fulmer say for once that something was his fault instead of offering a myriad of the following?

Cal’s speed surprised us
We were supposed to kick the ball out of bounds
We practiced tackling for 15 minutes today to fix it
It was a perfect storm really (2005 season)

We can agree based on other sites reports that recruiting is going really well so far this year. The junior days are just ending and we have had a lot of kids on campus and have some pretty good interest/momentum from some of the country’s top players. Where was this interest last year? We didn’t have any because for one reason or another, the staff didn’t get the players to campus, build enough relationships, etc. This was BEFORE the criticism started. Maybe it was just a bad run, maybe they mismanaged numbers because they thought they’d have limited scholarships, maybe it was the criticism or a combination of the three. Nobody can argue though that we just didn’t get a lot of kids to campus last year for some reason. I don’t think we’ve ever gotten a logical explanation for last year’s recruiting other than crying about people being critical hurt recruiting.

The whole Coker situation. The kid was on his last chance supposedly and then got suspended for missing counseling sessions? A kid as talented as Coker was not being monitored along the way to make sure he had been attending. The missed sessions led to another drug test that he failed. He was going to be gone anyway, but this whole scenario was timed with Coker playing against USC and then being suspended vs. ULL. No way the staff just didn’t “find out” that he had missed those mandatory counseling sessions after the USC game and the week of the ULL game. We’re talking about the same guy that investigated Bama as a secret witness and then met an accuser of Antwan Stewart at a Shoney’s.

Also, Montario Hardesty’s “suspension” vs. Bama. Fulmer said he was “surprised” his 2nd team tailback didn’t play. Then it comes out that Roper suspended him for the game which was news to Fulmer. So, Fulmer didn’t know that his 2nd string RB was suspended by his position coach? Ok.

Posted by WorkinLikeHeck on April 7, 2008 at 3:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Playing catch up….when the whole text messaging in recruiting was the craze, Fulmer had to of course play catch up and react to it instead of being proactive. He would never admit it though.

Off the field incidents. Sure every program has their share of them. We’re going to have them because let’s face it, they aren’t all choir boys. It takes an embarrassing string of incidents for Fulmer to enforce curfews, morning runs, etc. Not kicking Tony McDaniel off the team was a joke.

5-6 in 2005. Utterly unacceptable. Preseason #3.

2001 SEC title game choke job. No Rohan Davey or Toefield. Pretty much unacceptable with talent we had on that team.

I could go on and on about the home blowout losses, Fulmer’s struggles against he top coaches in the SEC right now and vs. the top 10, and other incidents but in general, I just want some accountability.

Posted by auttat on April 7, 2008 at 4:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Accountability, got it. P!$$ OFF!

Posted by jimr07 on April 7, 2008 at 4:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)

workinlike--are you a close friend of fulmer? and do you know first hand that he did not use text messaging? and, tennessee is not the only school that has its off fiend problems. to blame fulmer for those incidents is like blaming him for ex-vols that got in trouble. 5-6 is over. it was not the first time in school history under 500. yes, you can go on and on and you cannot change the outcome. i take it you have had a lot of college coaching experience. that is not still not telling me what makes you happy. what would be acceptable? it is like i said, you are just bitching about the past.

Posted by WorkinLikeHeck on April 7, 2008 at 4:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Little auttat is mad at me...LOL!!!!!

Posted by jimr07 on April 7, 2008 at 4:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

stj18--yes, i have noticed. i am assuming that no one pays any attention to them but they can come on here and ruffle a few feathers and people will notice them. it is sad that both of their friends do not pay attention to them
thanks for your comment

Posted by WorkinLikeHeck on April 7, 2008 at 4:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

What makes me happy? Meeting programs goals would be a nice start. He did use text messaging but as usual, we were behind schools such as Florida with it. This has been reported by another site that I read, so no, you don't have to be Fulmer's friend to know this.

Posted by jimr07 on April 7, 2008 at 4:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

workinglikeheck--that seems to be your goal. to p&$$ people off. you have at least a dozen posts and all but one concerned the committ from an outstanding athlete. and that one was sarcastic about coming here to not play in a bcs bowl. are you this way about everything? it is sad to see someone that is so miserable.

Posted by jimr07 on April 7, 2008 at 4:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

workinlikeheck--so your source is totally reliable from tdtn or some other jerk that does not know what he is talking about. you are pitiful. and you call yourself a vol fan? don't think so.

Posted by jimr07 on April 7, 2008 at 4:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

another site, that is sure reliable.

Posted by WorkinLikeHeck on April 7, 2008 at 4:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

No sweat off my back. I was just asking a question if he was or wasn't interested in playing in a BCS bowl and stating my opnion that he probably had a better chance at a national title in track than he does with the football team. This young man is very smart for trying to do this though. No spring practice for him.

Posted by WorkinLikeHeck on April 7, 2008 at 4:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

It's called Volquest.com, maybe you've heard of it? Brent Hubbs is never wrong.

Posted by jimr07 on April 7, 2008 at 4:29 p.m. (Suggest removal)

workin-i just looked at that site and when you tell me someone is NEVER wrong. now i have misgivings about that site. better luck next time making something up.

Posted by WorkinLikeHeck on April 7, 2008 at 4:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Ask anyone that knows anything...Brent Hubbs is never wrong. He was the one that said that about the text messaging thing. Have fun relying on unreliable sources for your Vol news.

Posted by jimr07 on April 7, 2008 at 4:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)

like you

Posted by WorkinLikeHeck on April 7, 2008 at 4:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I challenge you to find anyone that would characterize volquest.com and it's writers as unreliable. Good luck with that.

Posted by invisiblekid on April 7, 2008 at 4:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hubbs is the man when it comes to anything Vols.

Posted by WorkinLikeHeck on April 7, 2008 at 4:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)

wait a second, jimr looked at the website for a few minutes and was able to determine with reading any premium content that give him "misgivings" about that site because I said it was a good site. Wow, I really do influence the way people think!!!!!!!!!

Posted by pdhuff on April 7, 2008 at 4:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I'd have a fritter if the cupboard wasn't bare.

54 miles round-trip to the fritter store.

Maybe Stokes knows some BIG and FAST d-linemen.

Rainy doldrums. One light -LVs striving for the grail.

Posted by hglover40 on April 7, 2008 at 4:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Workinlikeheck -

Everyone brings up that 2001 SEC championship game as a stike against Fulmer, but no one remembers the only reason we played in that game - Coach took a team to the swamp that no-one gave a chance and beat the #2 Gators!!!

Your'e a whinner and a loser.
Coach Fulmer is a winner and a NC.

Shutup already.

Posted by DennisVols on April 7, 2008 at 4:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)

W. Gault was a great football/track star at UT. At one time he was considered the fastest man on earth after seting records in the 100.
The Great John Ward once called a Gault catch and run as "he's running all the way to the state capital"

Posted by sjt18 on April 7, 2008 at 5:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

jimr07,

Hubbs is one of the more reliable sources for things going on at UT. OTOH, when some people refer to what he's said... you might want to ask for a direct quote. Too often things get lost in translation.

As to the point of being behind/ahead in recruiting... CPF has done a pretty decent job of getting great talent to a team in a state without great HS talent. Those results speak for themselves.

Posted by shoalcreekvol on April 7, 2008 at 5:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Congratulations Coach Scott. Great way to start your tenure at UT.

Posted by nUTsack on April 7, 2008 at 5:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I too am concerned of the direction of our program, but I am willing to support the new staff and the 2008 squad without question until otherwise proven. State your thoughts and then move on. Your beating a dead horse with the repetitive bashing. Become a million dollar donor to make heads roll or remain a simple and loyal fan that realizes your place. GO VOLS!!!!

Posted by WorkinLikeHeck on April 7, 2008 at 5:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)

this is great....I have joined TommyJack as having other posters create a like name. I've arrived. The 01' game is a strike and always will be. What did we do with that victory in the Swamp in 2001? Remember Coach Fulmer likes to say that a win by itself isn't remembered, it's what you do with that win that is remembered. Holla!!!!!

Posted by 99gator on April 7, 2008 at 5:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)

spring game is less than a week away. any news on anything surprisingly good or surprisingly disappointing so far.

seems like everything has gone according to hoyle in knoxville so far. defense dominating, new offense struggling.

Posted by WorkinLikeHeck on April 7, 2008 at 5:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Ashley aka WorkinLykeHeck is pretty funny. If i was a girl or really got mad I'd report you to the KNS like sjt18 did to me and get banned (even though I wasn't the one posting under his name).

Posted by DennisVols on April 7, 2008 at 5:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)

WorkinLikeHeck
Apparently you are either too young to too stupid to remember clearly about the 2001 win in the Swamp.
The game was moved, due to 9/11 attacks on our country, to the week before the SEC Championship game. The Ol Ball Coach was quoted as saying "the winner of the Tennessee-Florida game will probably lose the SEC Championship game". This was based on the fact that when UT-UF play there is nothing left on the field. It was one of the most gruelling contest of the year in a year that had been anything but normal.
UT fought hard the 1st half but I saw a team that was completly drained coming out in the 2nd half.
Not giving excuses here just simply stating the facts of what was going on at that time and how it directly effected the outcome of that championship game.

Posted by nUTsack on April 7, 2008 at 5:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Nothing will tarnish that victory. Not even tha game after. Especially since I live in Florida.

Posted by WorkinLikeHeck on April 7, 2008 at 5:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Yeah, Spurrier said that, I'm sure. I remember the team getting back from the Swamp treating it like they had just won the national title though at Tom Black Track. Funny, how when Florida beat us all those years, they didn't return home to a hero's welcome in Gainesville. If anything the game being moved to later in the season helped us in beating Florida, but I guess 9/11 only affected us negatively (one week later might I add) against LSU. We were the better and more talented team and we got whipped. I enjoyed your excuses though.

Posted by 99gator on April 7, 2008 at 5:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)

the only game that florida has lost to tenn (since 1990) that really, really hurt as a fan was in 2001. it did not hurt in terms of the fact that tenn deserved to win and florida was not robbed of a victory. so, i could live with the fact that the better team that day won.

but, i wanted to see florida go to the rose bowl. if they had beaten tenn and won the sec title, they would have been in the rose bowl (and miami would have killed them). but, i would love to see my team in the rose bowl one day.

at the time, i had a friend who lived in LA. so, i was prepared to go.

but, it was not to be.

and, while spurrier was at florida, losing a home game always had a large amount of shock value (except to fsu). so, leaving a game having lost at home....you wondered how did that happen?

the ironic thing is tenn had a string of running backs make the nfl and succeed, yet, it was travis stephens who tore up florida. not jason witten, donte stallworth, etc, who were on that team, but travis stephens.

brutal

Posted by General_Watermelon on April 7, 2008 at 5:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)

WorkinLikeHeck - not sure that is a compliment or an insult for ole TDTN. No skin off my back however. Dupree may get upset though as you did not mention his name.

From the looks of these posts, you all need to eat more fritters.

Posted by nUTsack on April 7, 2008 at 5:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)

worklikeheck: You need a new life as-well-as a new team to hate. This team apparently isn't good enough for you. Life is good dude, lighten up. Atleast my life is good. I'm sure yours sucks though, spouse not pretty enough for you, kids not smart enough for you, dog too lazy for you, house not clean enough for you, grass won't grow fast enough for you, O whoas wit me. Now I'm depressed for you, your effort worked after all. Boo Hoo Hoo

Posted by nUTsack on April 7, 2008 at 6 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm a fritter critter, are you?

Posted by nUTsack on April 7, 2008 at 6 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Got Fritter?

Posted by General_Watermelon on April 7, 2008 at 6:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)

DennisVols - The boys lost to LSU in the 2001 SEC Championship Game because they were tired due to playing Florida the week prior? Here I thought it was because of turnovers and not being able to tackle their backup QB. Who knew?

Posted by sjt18 on April 7, 2008 at 6:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

99gator,

The run O has been a disappointment.

Paige has apparently moved himself up some.

Stocker has definitely moved up.

Cooper is making an impression at FB.

Berry said that the secondary has reached a point of playing without having to think about it. He said when they didn't know what they were doing they could only go 80-90%. Now they are going 100% and working well as a group. Probably a little better than even our hopes.

Myers-White has looked great at OLB as did McKenzie before he got hurt.

Ayers is reaching the level of consistency at DE that has held him back in the past.

Posted by General_Watermelon on April 7, 2008 at 6:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)

WorkinLikeHeck is a true Vol fan. He's the only one I know who tailgates for the Orange & White Game. He just needs to eat more fritters and sweeten up that neagtive disposition toward our beloved Fulmer.

Posted by General_Watermelon on April 7, 2008 at 6:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Ashley - the KNS will kick you off the site for posing as someone else. Just so you know.

Posted by sjt18 on April 7, 2008 at 6:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Nelson and Thomas have continued to be disappointing at DT.

Donald was a disappointment but apparently took to MLB and started drawing some praise.

The backup OL's were called out. A couple answered the bell like Jerrod Shaw and Ramone Johnson. Some are apparently not doing enough to put themselves in a position to play next fall.

I'm hopeful that Sawtelle will make a nice surge late this spring.

Posted by General_Watermelon on April 7, 2008 at 6:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

sjt18 - before you crown this the best defense of the Century, perhaps you should consider they are playing against a QB with virtually no experience and an offense that is trying to learn a new system. The verdict is still out as to how good they will be. The DL is still a huge concern.

Posted by sjt18 on April 7, 2008 at 6:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm not crowning anyone anything.

I am passing on what I've read as fairly as I can. The OL hasn't changed from last year. If the DL is beating them, they are beating good players... that's pretty much all I've said.

I never said the DL didn't continue to be a concern... they've just showed up better this spring than the run O has. UT needs to run effectively.

Posted by pdhuff on April 7, 2008 at 6:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)

sjt18 6:16- have you forgotten so soon. "run O"!!

Our run O last year consisted of sprinting 10-12 yards East or West then heading down field. Our 5 yard gains were the results of a 16 yard gallop. Counting from where he got the ball, I'd say Foster had over 1800 yds. Only misguided Hardesty headed straight ahead.

Off tackle was a rarity, but those O linemen were (and probably still are) dink and dunk stand-up blockers. Good ones, but dink and dunkers still. Until Mr. Clawson convinces them otherwise.

Posted by jimr07 on April 7, 2008 at 6:47 p.m. (Suggest removal)

workinlikeheck--never said volquest was not a good site. i read it every day. i just questioned whether you quoted someone correctly. or, if he even said. that is right. i am questionin your honesty in that regard.

Posted by jimr07 on April 7, 2008 at 6:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

workinlikeheck--i question anything you say whether is from volquest or not. ok

Posted by WorkinLikeHeck on April 7, 2008 at 7:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

General Fritter, I enjoy your posts about our beloved Coach Fulmer. He wants his football players to emulate the Lady Vols (they know a thing or two about titles and consistentcy). I just wish this football team had a Candace Parker like Fulmer wants them to.

that's great jimr, I am really concerned that you question me. Why don't you post a topic on the GQ and ask if Fulmer and staff were behind the 8 ball on text messaging. I already know what the answer is going to be.

Posted by WorkinLikeHeck on April 7, 2008 at 7:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Per Brent Hubbs in the 4-28-06 War Room in the archives. Since it's not sensitive material and about 2 years old, I figured I could extract this one line for old jimr to read and weap:

"Elsewhere on the recruiting front, Tennessee like all schools are working the phones via text messages to communicate with prospects. Text messaging has grown in popularity greatly over the last couple of years. It really got big in the SEC last year thanks to Urban Meyer who was the first head coach to really get his staff involved in text messaging with prospects"

http://tennessee.rivals.com/forum.asp...

There was a big discussion on Volquest that day that expounded on this point that our staff was behind and playing catch up to Florida in this regard. Any more questions?

Posted by gatorfan8 on April 7, 2008 at 8:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

wat up big oranja!!!!!! i c somebody answered the help wanted add fulmer put in the paper :)....since recruiting blowed this year 4 tha mighty RICHMOND VOLZ

Posted by burntorangeVOLffle on April 7, 2008 at 8:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)

CR,

I have read quotes from Fulmer taking the blame for the '05 season as well as other tough losses. I clearly remember him saying after the South Carolina loss that “accountability goes to the top”. Who else would he be talking about? I can also remember other quotes such as “we need to do a better job coaching.” Or that “we didn’t do a good job preparing them” after the Cal game (which you like repeat a different quote to yourself like it’s a personal mantra) There’s more that if I was anal enough to go dig them up I would.

You just want to over analyze his coach speak to fit your negative view. You make it out like Fulmer takes total credit when things go good but not when things go bad which couldn’t be further from the truth.

You're the type of fan that says there's no way we will beat (fill in team name here). Then when we do you say we were lucky or complain that it was too close. I understand being frustrated when we lose but you're not happy even when we win.

If you hate Fulmer so much just stop following TN football until he is gone. Surely there is something in your life that can fill the void for a few more years. Otherwise please spare the rest of us your snide comments when positive news such as landing a top 50 recruit comes out.

Posted by WorkinLikeHeck on April 7, 2008 at 8:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I am going to be like jimr and not believe you. I think I still have my copy of the letter Fulmer sent out apologizing to the season ticket holders for going 5-6 in 2005.

After the South Carolina loss? You mean when Randy Sanders fell on the sword?

Where have I ever stated that I hate our beloved Coach Fulmer?

Posted by burntorangeVOLffle on April 7, 2008 at 8:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)

From Fulmer's letter after the '05 season.

"As I've said before, the results this year are unacceptable and accountability starts with me."

You wanted accountability, you got it 2 years ago.

Posted by WorkinLikeHeck on April 7, 2008 at 8:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Just like what I said earlier, the 5-6 season was unacceptable. So, Fulmer admitted fault one time? He then tried to justify it with his "Perfect Storm" commment which pretty much superceded his little kiss up letter than Hamilton made him send out with his name on it.

Posted by WorkinLikeHeck on April 7, 2008 at 8:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

And besides, Sanders was gone at this point and it wasn't Chavis and the defense's fault. He had to take the blame. It only took what 3-4 weeks after the season ended to apologize and take blame?

Posted by burntorangeVOLffle on April 7, 2008 at 8:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

What do you want? A detailed explanation of all the areas he's ever failed in?

You said you wanted accountability. You got it but that wasn't enough.

'05 was a "perfect storm". Poor coaching is included in that. But even the close games that we could have won that season the ball just didn't bounce our way. Things like two fumbles inside the 10 against Bama only to lose 6-3. A fumble on the 1 yrd line against SC. Losing Jason Allen in the UGA game. And so on...

Posted by burntorangeVOLffle on April 7, 2008 at 8:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The letter was dated November 29, 2005. That's only a few days after the Vandy game.

Again, all you wanted was accountability, you got it days after the '05 season ended but it wasn't fast enough.

Like I said, you are incapable of being happy while Fulmer is coach (maybe even when he's not for all I know) so just quit following football until someone you like is in charge. You'll be a better person for it.

Posted by WorkinLikeHeck on April 7, 2008 at 8:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Ball didn't bounce way? The ball only doesn't bounce our way when we lose but when it really does (see two fumbles and PArker recovering one 15 yeard downfield) we are all of sudden a "Team of destiny" as Fulmer likes to call us. Fumbles and injuries happen to every team. LSU beat us in the SEC champ game twice with backup QBs who were playing because if injuries. I guess we just need the ball to bounce our way and have no injuries to win nowaways.

Posted by burntorangeVOLffle on April 7, 2008 at 9:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

You're right, fumbles and injuries do happen to every team. Sometimes you come out on the good end, sometimes the short end. Most seasons it balances out through out the year. '05 was one of those years it leaned toward the negative effect. Combine that with poor coaching that year and you have a "perfect storm"

Would it make you sleep easier at night if Fulmer started the answer to every question with "Sorry but I just don't know how to coach."?

Posted by dfreeman on April 7, 2008 at 9:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Fritter - is 12 still floating or has he sunk yet?? LOL

Posted by scvols on April 8, 2008 at 3:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I am telling you, if this team can win 9 or more games this year, these new coaches will have a top 5 recruiting class.

Posted by sjt18 on April 8, 2008 at 9:19 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Workin,

So what you are saying with that "proof" is that Hubbs didn't say Fulmer was behind? You are saying that the actual "proof" comes from a discussion that followed?

Help my memory... I seem to remember CPF and staff drawing a pretty good class in 2007... whatever disadvantage they had was short-lived.

Are you trying to say the ban on text messaging hurt UT's class this year?

Posted by sjt18 on April 8, 2008 at 9:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Oh the irony...

"So, Fulmer admitted fault one time?"

... of you condemning someone for refusing to admit it when they're wrong.

Posted by FLAVOLS on April 8, 2008 at 10:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)

WELCOME TO BIG ORANGE COUNTRY YOUNG MAN!!!

Posted by WorkinLikeHeck on April 8, 2008 at 11:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)

stj, the statement said we were behind Florida in text messaging. Did it not? The discussion expounded on this point. Sorry, I don't catalog message board duscussion that ensued that day. All I am saying is the text messaging is an example of the staff being behind and playing catch up. Another example is that we were playing catch up in recruiting last year because the staff wasn't getting juniors on campus. 15 minutes of tackling after the season started, being surprised by Cal's speed, etc. I would describe this as being reactive, not proactive.

Posted by sjt18 on April 8, 2008 at 12:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)

No Workin, it didn't. It said UT was doing it and that Meyer had been the first... it didn't say UT had been the last much less that they were behind. You've read your bias in between the lines. Whatever assumptions were involved in the ensuing conversation were just that... assumptions. Regardless, the class built by Fulmer and company in 2006 and signed in 2007 was probably UT's best ever.

There were ALOT of factors that went into this year's low class rating. I've read a few comments from players that chose other schools over UT. They didn't all give the same answers. Every single one that I read expressed some regret that the Vol coaches were disappointed. All made a "positive" choice between what they viewed as POSITIVE options.

The most common reasons given by talking heads included the bad losses coupled with questions about CPF's job security, coaching changes, and untimely misbehavior by players during the final recruiting push. I think Hubbs said this was the best attended UT Jr Day he'd ever seen... shouldn't you be giving CPF credit?

I know you don't like to admit that fan noise plays into the problems... but negative fan commentary is part of what created doubts about CPF's job security.

Of course some people will cut off their nose to spite their face....

Posted by sjt18 on April 8, 2008 at 12:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

BTW, I repeated over and over that many felt Johnson, Poole, and Wilks were underrated at 4*. Johnson and Poole so far seem to be proving that true.

Many of our more reasonable (not totally negative) posters pointed out that Morley, Faison, and Warren were probably the best players UT would get but wouldn't count on the rankings.

Morley has been great. Faison is getting reps and looks good from a physical standpoint. We'll see about Warren if he clears all the paperwork.

Posted by sjt18 on April 8, 2008 at 12:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Excuse me, underrated at 3*.

Posted by WorkinLikeHeck on April 8, 2008 at 12:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

If you just want to look at one statement than that's fine by me. It's all I had to work with as again I didn't save the message board discussion that said the same thing just further drove home the point that the staff was behind in this area.

Posted by sjt18 on April 8, 2008 at 1:22 p.m. (Suggest removal)

No. I'd be glad to look at more statements. You made the claim and the one statement you quoted doesn't support the claim.

I know you can't always find references for stuff we might remember from months or years ago. I'm not trying to rub you raw on that.

But you should at least admit that the statement you posted doesn't support your contention.

All coaches react and borrow from each other. There are very few new things under the sun of college football.

Behind isn't defined as not being first... but rather as not catching on until it is too late. Fulmer has done that. As have all coaches. He's also resisted following fads that fizzled and ALL successful coaches have done that.

Text messaging or recruiting in general doesn't make a good example of his being behind. His failure to fire RS after 4 years of decline makes a much better example. His failure to realize the new landscape where running the score up rather than attempting to sit on a lead for a whole half is another good one. The idea is not only popular and not considered bad sportsmanship... it is the new "maxim". It is no longer safe to sit on a 14 pt lead when CFB's best teams have such big play potential.

I'm not saying the guy is without flaw... I'm just not buying your suggestion that he basically can't do anything right.

Lemming says he's one of the top 5 HC recruiters in the country... If I remember correctly, the others he mentioned were Meyer, Weiss, Carroll, and Brown... seems like Stoops might have gotten some mention too.

Three of those guys have talent rich states to recruit from. One of them has every Catholic school in America. Only Stoops situation is comparable to CPF's... rankings wise, they avg pretty close to each other.

Posted by cjraney on April 8, 2008 at 4:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)

workin-In your lengthy 2-post diatribe above, you used the pronoun "we" several times: "We’ve been down this road..."; "don't think we’ve ever.."; "We didn’t have any..."

Please refrain from doing so in the future. To do so implies 1 of 2 things: that you and the rest of us posters have some mutual association or are engaged in some common endeavor or enterprise, OR that you are somehow affiliated, associated, or involved the UT football program. Your pea-brained posts make it clear that nothing could be further from the truth on either count.

So when you want to spout your imbecilic opinions on here, go right ahead but do us Vol fans a favor, use a capital "I" and leave the rest of us out of it.

And if you'd like to refer to my alma mater's football team you may call them THE MIGHTY TENNESSEE VOLUNTEERS. (Yes, you must use all caps.) Thanks, and enjoy the misery that is your life.

Posted by pdhuff on April 8, 2008 at 6:22 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Dang! Workin' has got ol' sjt18 back up to 7" posts.

Posted by burntorangeVOLffle on April 9, 2008 at 2:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)

"Text messaging or recruiting in general doesn't make a good example of his being behind. His failure to fire RS after 4 years of decline makes a much better example. His failure to realize the new landscape where running the score up rather than attempting to sit on a lead for a whole half is another good one. The idea is not only popular and not considered bad sportsmanship... it is the new "maxim". It is no longer safe to sit on a 14 pt lead when CFB's best teams have such big play potential.

I'm not saying the guy is without flaw... I'm just not buying your suggestion that he basically can't do anything right."

Great points. Couldn't have said it better if I tried.

Posted by sjt18 on April 9, 2008 at 9:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Forgive me pd... I fell off the wagon.

Posted by WorkinLikeHeck on April 9, 2008 at 10:11 a.m. (Suggest removal)

cjraney...yawn. We are both alums of the same school! LOL!!!!!!!

Posted by sjt18 on April 9, 2008 at 10:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Also in case you hadn't noticed pd, you have to explain things ad nauseum with some people or else they'll twist and distort what you write.

Posted by cjraney on April 9, 2008 at 11:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)

workin-
That's hilarious! How did you come up with the idea to use "yawn" AND "LOL" in the same post? You are truly a master of....uh, nevermind.

Now try to remember those 2 things: Don't include me in your idiocy, and THE MIGHTY TENNESSEE VOLUNTEERS, all caps, every time.

Posted by WorkinLikeHeck on April 9, 2008 at 11:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)

We share a common bond cjraney...as alums of the Great University of Tennessee. Also, Mighty Volunteers don't go to back to back Outhouse Bowls.

Posted by SmokeytheVol on April 10, 2008 at 3:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

why in the heck would u even write a story about a prospect, albeit a good athlete, who wont even play for Tennessee for at least a year and a half barring he get suspended or failure to maintain grades???