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Tennessee's signing class from start to finish

By Dave Hooker (Contact)
Originally published 07:00 a.m., February 6, 2008
Updated 03:13 p.m., February 6, 2008

Here is the breaking news on today's football signees for the University of Tennessee.

Updated 3:13 p.m.:

Jerrell Harris has signed with Alabama. The linebacker from Alabama is the last known prospect considering UT. The Vols have 18 signees. Barring any surprises, that will be UT's entire 2008 class. UT coach Phillip Fulmer and staff will hold a press conference this evening to address the class.

Updated 1:12 p.m.:

There won't be a more mature athlete in the 2008 class than Gerald Williams, who originally signed with UT in 2005. The Vols and Williams stuck by their guns as Williams is expected back this fall.

Gerald Williams: There won't be a more mature athlete in the 2008 class than Gerald Williams, who originally signed with UT in 2005. The Vols and Williams stuck by their guns as Williams is expected back this fall.

Bio: The saga continues. Williams first signed with UT in 2005 out of Boyd Anderson High School in Lauderdale Lakes, Fla. The 6-4, 225-pounder has since attended prep school and, recently, City College of San Francisco (Calif.). Williams could play linebacker or defensive end in college. As a high school senior, named to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution’s 2004 Super Southern 100 team with 115 tackles with 15 tackles-for-loss, nine sacks and three interceptions in 2004.

Updated 12:33 p.m.:

Stephaun Raines: Stephaun Raines was all but a forgotten prospect until he took his official visit in January. Raines signed with UT before the Vols signed their strong defensive back class of 2007. No matter, UT was still interested.

Bio: Originally signed with UT in 2006 out of Dalton (Ga.) High School. The 6-foot, 175-pound athlete attended Coffeyville (Kan.) Community College to become academically eligible. Could play receiver or defensive back. Accounted for more than 1,700 all-purpose yards and 15 touchdowns as a senior in 2005.

Prentiss Waggner: Schools can never have too many cover corners, especially big ones. That's certainly the case with 6-2 Prentiss Waggner.

Bio: Originally committed to UT in December but kept silent until late January. The 6-2, 180-pound defensive back from Clinton (La.) High School was ranked the No. 7 overall cornerback by recruiting analyst Tom Lemming. Finished senior season with 45 tackles and nine interceptions and 868 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns as a receiver.

Updated 11:29 a.m.:

The Vols were thought to be in the lead for Alabama offensive lineman Antoine McClain. No longer. McClain has signed with Clemson.

Updated 11:09 a.m.:

The Vols missed out on two Hargrave prospects. Running back Enrique Davis chose Ole Miss and defensive end Quinton Coples chose North Carolina.

Willie Bohannon: Willie Bohannon was a late target for the Vols. The defensive end had committed to Kentucky and talked to Alabama extensively but saw immediate playing time at UT. The Vols lost two starting senior defensive ends from last year's team.

Bio: One of the late additions to UT’s class. The 6-3, 235-pound defensive end from Blount High School in Mobile, Ala. , was once committed to Kentucky before pledging to play for the Vols. Also recruited by Alabama. As a senior in 2007, totaled 73 tackles, 12 tackles-for-loss, nine sacks and two forced fumbles in 11 games. Had 57 tackles with 15 sacks as a junior in 2006. As a sophomore in 2005, had 70 tackles and 18 sacks.

Updated 10:49 a.m.:

Rod Wilks: The Vols picked up a fantastic luxury with Rod Wilks, who just signed with UT. The Vols weren't necessarily shopping for receivers but they'll take one of Wilks' ilk.

Bio: The News Sentinel’s second-best prospect in the state. The 6-1, 210-pound receiver from Smyrna High School is a half-brother of UT cornerback Marsalous Johnson. No. 16 overall wide receiver and No. 87 overall prospect, according to ESPN. As a senior, caught 77 passes for 1,170 yards and 20 touchdowns. Also, returned a punt and kickoff for touchdowns. Had 62 tackles and six interceptions as a cornerback.

Updated 10:19 a.m.:

E.J. Abrams-Ward: The Vols picked up another positive surprise when E.J. Abrams-Ward signed with UT over North Carolina. A versatile athlete, most expected Abrams-Ward to become a Tar Heel.

Bio: The 6-foot-5, 210-pound athlete from Thomasville (N.C.) High School is rated the No. 11 overall athlete in the nation and No. 1 overall prospect in North Carolina by Rivals. Rated the No. 8 overall strong side linebacker by Scout and the No. 26 overall outside linebacker by ESPN. As a senior in 2007, rushed for over 1,200 yards and totaled over 800 yards receiving.

Updated 9:54 a.m.:

UT, however, did receive some bad news, albeit expected, when Jeremy Lewis from Palm Beach Lakes High in West Palm Beach, Fla. signed with Miami. The defensive tackle was considering UT.

Steven Fowlkes: UT picked up its 12th signee of the 2008 class when receiver/defensive end Steven Fowlkes faxed his signed letter of intent. Fowlkes will start his UT career at receiver but could soon grow into a speed rushing defensive end.

Bio: Rated as one of the better defensive ends in the South, but determined to play receiver, which UT promised the 6-5, 215-pounder from Banneker High School in College Park, Ga. Selected to the Georgia North Vs. South all-star game. Caught 17 passes for 287 yards and five touchdowns while tallying 33 tackles and nine sacks in 2007. Totaled 49 tackles and six sacks in only five games as a junior in 2006 while missing five games due to an elbow injury.

Updated 9:18 a.m.:

Dallas Thomas: The Vols received their first bit of “surprise” good news when Dallas Thomas signed with UT. Thomas was long expected to sign with UT but hadn’t confirmed he was committed until Wednesday.

Bio: The 6-6, 260-pound offensive lineman from Scotlandville High School in Baton Rouge, La., is the No. 54 overall offensive tackle by Rivals and the No. 26 overall offensive guard by Scout. He’s also a high school teammate of UT signee Herman Lathers.

Updated 9:03 a.m.:

Montori Hughes: Just a few weeks ago, Montori Hughes wasn’t sure where he’d be signing. Tennessee State and Carson Newman were a couple of possibilities. Then a surprise offer from UT came and Hughes, who just signed his letter of intent, became a Vol. Hughes is UT’s tenth signee of the 2008 class.

Bio: His commitment had some asking "Montori who?" First received Division I college attention, thanks to his play and practice at the inaugural Tennessee all-star classic in December. The 6-5, 265-pounder from Siegel High School in Murfreesboro was named All-Region, All-Area and All-County. Led Siegel with 106 tackles, 25+ for a loss and 13 sacks as a senior.

Updated 8:56 a.m.:

Marlon Walls: Marlon Walls from Olive Branch (Miss.) High became UT’s ninth signee of the 2008 class when he signed and faxed his letter of intent Wednesday morning. Walls long called UT his dream school, then surprisingly committed to Ole Miss. Once Ed Orgeron was fired as the Rebels coach, Walls soon committed to be a Vol. Walls was also recruited by Florida.

Bio: The News Sentinel’s fourth-best prospect in Tennessee until he moved to Olive Branch (Miss.) High School. The 6-4, 225-pounder was committed to Ole Miss until head coach Ed Orgeron was fired and UT moved in. No. 22 overall outside linebacker by Rivals. No. 14 overall outside linebacker by Scout. No. 45 overall outside linebacker by ESPN.

Updated 8:40 a.m.:

Herman Lathers: Herman Lathers confirmed that he has signed his letter of intent to be a Vol. That would seem to pave the way for Lathers’ teammate Dallas Thomas, an offensive lineman, to also sign with UT.

Bio: 6-foot, 190-pound linebacker from Scotlandville High School in Baton Rouge, La. As a senior in 2007, made 114 tackles with 18 tackles-for-loss and five sacks. High school teammate of UT offensive line prospect Dallas Thomas.

Updated 8:39 a.m.:

Carson Anderson: Carson Anderson has confirmed that he has signed to be a Vol. UT coaches hope Anderson can help fill the Vols’ most pressing need in the 2008 class: offensive linemen.

Bio: The 6-3, 270-pound offensive lineman from Florence (Ala.) High School was selected to play in the Alabama-Mississippi All-Star Classic. Anderson’s father, Terry, played at UT from 1976-78 and uncle, Charlie, played defensive end from 1974-76.

Updated 8:23 a.m.: Preston Bailey and Ben Bartholomew

UT’s morning continued to run as planned as Preston Bailey and Ben Bartholomew signed their letters of intent on Wednesday morning. Bartholomew was one of the first to commit to UT, pledging his services in December 2006. Bailey committed in August 2007.

Preston Bailey bio: The News Sentinel’s fifth-best prospect in the state. The 6-5, 310-pound offensive lineman from Montgomery Bell Academy in Nashville fills a key need for UT: offensive line. Bailey, who also considered Vanderbilt, Clemson, Georgia Tech and South Carolina, was high school teammates with fellow UT signee Ben Bartholomew.

Ben Bartholomew bio: A versatile 6-3, 225-pound athlete from Montgomery Bell Academy in Nashville. Could play defensive end, tight end, H-back or fullback. Brother, Will, played fullback at UT from 1998-2001. Grandfather, Sam, was a blocking back at UT from 1937-39. Both were captains of championship teams at UT. High school teammate of UT signee Preston Bailey.

Updated 8:12 a.m.:

Aaron Douglas: UT’s first commitment just became their second signee, as Aaron Douglas from Maryville High School has signed his letter of intent. Douglas ended most college interest in him before it even began by committing to be a Vol in July 2006.

Bio: The first commitment of UT’s 2008 class. The News Sentinel’s top prospect in Tennessee. An alternate for the U.S. Army All-American Bowl. The 6-7, 250-pounder from Maryville High School was limited by a myriad of injuries during his senior season. Still accounted for 44 catches for 740 yards and four touchdowns. No. 5 overall tight end by Rivals. No. 16 overall tight end by Scout. No. 18 overall tight end by ESPN. Father, David, lettered as an offensive tackle on the 1984 and 85 teams. Mother is former Lady Vols basketball player Karla Horton Dougla

Updated 7:10 a.m.:

Casey Kelly: Quarterback Casey Kelly of Sarasota (Fla.) High was the first high school prospect to confirm that he has signed his letter of intent with Tennessee. Kelly chose UT over Arizona State and plans to play football and baseball for the Vols. He could, however, still play professional baseball if he's chosen high enough in this summer's amateur draft.

Bio: Widely considered one of the top 25 quarterback prospects in the nation. The 6-2, 190-pounder from Sarasota (Fla.) High School also plans to play baseball, likely shortstop, in college. All that will be moot if he’s selected high enough in this summer’s amateur baseball draft. Kelly has said he’ll go pro if the contract is big enough. Compiled a .349 average and four home runs and an 11-0 record with a 0.24 ERA on the mound as a junior. Missed much of his senior football season with a staph infection in his throwing arm. Threw for 4,212 yards with 37 touchdowns and 21 interceptions on 292-of-506 passing in his career at Sarasota.

Updated 7 a.m.: These two signees are already enrolled at UT.

Running back Tauren Poole and athlete Austin Johnson have enrolled at UT and will have the benefit of participating in spring practice as they prepare for their freshman season.

Tauren Poole bio: UT’s first highly ranked, out-of-state commitment. Committed to UT in October 2006. The 5-10, 200-pound tailback rushed for 5,413 yards during his high school career, finishing with 2,138 as a senior. Enrolled at UT in January after graduating from Stephens County High School in Toccoa, Ga.

Austin Johnson bio: Committed to UT in September 2006. Already enrolled at UT after graduating from Hickory (N.C.) High School in December. The 6-2, 235-pounder is expected to play fullback, but could play a number of other positions, including tight end or defensive end.

* * *

© 2008, Knoxville News Sentinel Co.

       324 Comments

Posted by Vols1998 on February 6, 2008 at 7:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Welcome to UT, you just made an awesome decision!

Go Vols!

Posted by dburgVol on February 6, 2008 at 7:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I second that. Congratulations. Great to have you guys. STAY away from drugs and the naysayers.

Posted by kingmufasa76 on February 6, 2008 at 7:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)

amen if we could keep the kids away from the drugs and drinking maybe it would draw more recruits

Posted by dburgVol on February 6, 2008 at 7:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Dallas Thomas is gonnabe wearing the OOORRRAAANNGGGEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!
GETTEM PHIL!

Posted by jweaver3 on February 6, 2008 at 8:06 a.m. (Suggest removal)

GO VOLS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

TXVOLSFAN

Posted by knoxsingle on February 6, 2008 at 8:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Congratulations to these young men! It's a great day to be a Tennessee Vol.

Posted by kingmufasa76 on February 6, 2008 at 8:25 a.m. (Suggest removal)

wow updating fast this yr go vols! keepem coming

Posted by HotlantaVol on February 6, 2008 at 8:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Where there's a Will's brother, there's a way.

Posted by 99gator on February 6, 2008 at 8:30 a.m. (Suggest removal)

is sphs going to be a prophet?

Posted by AllVol on February 6, 2008 at 8:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Thatt's what I am waiting to see, 99gator!

Posted by HotlantaVol on February 6, 2008 at 8:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)

99gator - you have a good team there, but it seemed like they gave up at the end. Youth I guess.

Posted by 99gator on February 6, 2008 at 8:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)

hotaltantavol

youth, fatigue, playing on the road.

tenn is better and deeper. this year's florida squad also likes to play at tenn's pace. can not beat a better, deeper squad on their home floor playing at the pace they like to play at.

to give you an idea of how good tenn is.....i think florida played about as well as they could for most of the game.

i think tenn needs to defend better, especially the post. they also get too excited at times and their shot selection is questionable.

but, they are athletic, deep, shoot the ball well, shoot free throws well, and can run all day.

Posted by auttat on February 6, 2008 at 8:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Pretty sure sphs didn't have a clue what he was talking about.

Posted by 99gator on February 6, 2008 at 8:40 a.m. (Suggest removal)

the team i think tenn would like to avoid in the tourney is UCLA.

as good as carolina, duke, kansas and a few others are.....they would accomodate tenn and play at tenn's pace.

UCLA is a halfcourt team that would slow the game down with an exceptional big man.

Posted by auttat on February 6, 2008 at 8:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)

99gator, I agree with most of your comments, but... shoot free throws well? How many times have you seen them play? I never look at stats, but I would have to say that UT ranks easily in the bottom of the SEC in ft %.

Maybe the fball team can take the approach, "as long as we hit the 50 yd bombs, we can play with anybody."

Posted by 99gator on February 6, 2008 at 8:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)

auttat

let me clarify the free throws.....tenn has people that if they are up 4 with 51 seconds left and the other team fouls them in the end of game scenario......tenn has some people who i think they would trust to knock them down and close out the game.

Posted by 99gator on February 6, 2008 at 8:49 a.m. (Suggest removal)

where as.....

memphis would rather have me shoot free throws with 2 seconds left and their season on the line

Posted by pdhuff on February 6, 2008 at 8:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)

auttat 8:38 - pretty sure you are right.

Beat the Bengals.

Posted by HotlantaVol on February 6, 2008 at 8:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Come on, Herman. Give Dallas that extra little nudge.

Posted by 55Vol on February 6, 2008 at 8:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)

99 gator... thanks for vote of FT confidence but I am not sold on our team being able to do that in tight, tough game against a quality opponent like a UCLA who also has weapons that wouldplay well against one of this team's weaknesses...post play. Thanks for a great game. The first half was an awesome display of highlight footage for both teams.

Posted by auttat on February 6, 2008 at 8:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Yes, I agree with you there. But, over the course of the game, the ft shooting is usually atrocious.

I think JP pops his shoulder back in place while he shoots.

Just out curiousity, is your all's recruiting board filling up at the same fever pitch of UT's? We are having to pull back the reigns big boy. Whoooaa Nelly!!!

Posted by kingmufasa76 on February 6, 2008 at 8:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)

we will see how good they are when they go to memphis imo

Posted by losvolsganan on February 6, 2008 at 8:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I don't think sphs has been seen or heard from in a couple of days, has he?

Getting Dallas Thomas would certainly help. C'mon and play for the best, young man!

Posted by 99gator on February 6, 2008 at 9:02 a.m. (Suggest removal)

auttat

right now, florida has one appareant defection.....but, i think of the 22 or so they expected to sign.....14 faxes have been received already

Posted by auttat on February 6, 2008 at 9:06 a.m. (Suggest removal)

99gator, I was totally kidding with that statement. I'm sure you were aware of that.

Who was the defection?

Posted by LazhilUT on February 6, 2008 at 9:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Stay the course...Top 50 Recruiting class!
Oh boy...

Posted by 99gator on February 6, 2008 at 9:09 a.m. (Suggest removal)

auttat

i figured you were, but then i thought you were refering to the general excitement of signing day.

the defection is ricky barnum, offensive lineman (michigan)

Posted by auttat on February 6, 2008 at 9:16 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Heyo! Looks like Rodriguez slid a little more money under the table!!

Good to see Meyer cleared of any wrong doing. You can't fault the guy for trying to get gf's in school. He was probably just tired of seeing his own players kiss each other.

Posted by dfreeman on February 6, 2008 at 9:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Montori looks like a monster!!

Posted by b_appleton on February 6, 2008 at 9:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)

relax people. You take the recruits that fit, and that want to be at TN! Past that, you can fill holes by playing the spot market, by picking up a 1 - 3 big time JUCOs - - who actually have experience playing at a higher level, who want to make an impact, and who may have matured a bit....

Posted by losvolsganan on February 6, 2008 at 9:25 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Does the 9:18 update mean Dallas signed on?? It just gives his bio.

Posted by sjt18 on February 6, 2008 at 9:25 a.m. (Suggest removal)

The Thomas commit could be one we'll remember.

Considering the UT experience with Shaw and a few others, it seems they'd rather put weight on than try to slim a guy down. 6'6" is a very nice frame to build a football player on.

Posted by losvolsganan on February 6, 2008 at 9:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)

To all the new UT recruits: Welcome!

Come and see the show....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p3zOB-...

Posted by dfreeman on February 6, 2008 at 9:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Rivals has Thomas at 6'6" 260, and scout has him at 6'5" and 280! Which is it and why do both sites have varying information on so many players?? It makes me wonder just how much homework these sites actually do on their subjects as to just taking someones word for it!

Posted by kingmufasa76 on February 6, 2008 at 9:45 a.m. (Suggest removal)

dfreeman guess we should ask him when he comes to org/wht game LOL

Posted by D_in_Iraq on February 6, 2008 at 9:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)

dfreeman... Yep...

Also, Scout still has Gerald Williams as a 1 Star, and Rivals has him as a 4. Scout has Hughes as a 3 star and Rivals a 2 star.... And more often then not, the size difference listed for these kids by ALL the recruiting services seems to be not only off, but WAY Off! Finally ESPN.com has Rod Wilkes rated the 82 best player in America, whereas, Scout and Rivals has him no where to be seen. Strange huh?

Posted by HotlantaVol on February 6, 2008 at 9:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Actually all these measurements are fudged a little to make guys seem bigger or faster than reality. Some probably fudge more than others. He's probably actually 5'8" and 180lbs.

Posted by dfreeman on February 6, 2008 at 10 a.m. (Suggest removal)

D_in_Iraq - Yes it is! What time is it across the pond over there? Hope all is well!

Foolmore - you actually said Fulmer!! Wow!

Kingmufasa76 - Yes we will!! LOL

Posted by invisiblekid on February 6, 2008 at 10:02 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Good job accentuating the positive CRFoolmore.

Posted by nicksjuzunk on February 6, 2008 at 10:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Fowlkes is in!

I'm holding out for Abrams-Ward & Enrique. I am tired as death but still holding on!

This should be sphs-vol's time to shine... where is he with some feedback?

Posted by nicksjuzunk on February 6, 2008 at 10:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Fowlkes is huge!! 6 freakin' 5! If he sticks at WR, maybe we can have us a Calvin Johnson!

Posted by 99gator on February 6, 2008 at 10:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)

any new names....

Posted by UTBEATEMALL on February 6, 2008 at 10:16 a.m. (Suggest removal)

The Gators actually have two defections now!

Posted by nicksjuzunk on February 6, 2008 at 10:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Glad to see you here gator... but I'm quite surprised. I can't believe you're not trolling the gator sites on this hallowed day! You really seem to have an interest in UT football!

Do you go to other school's sites as well?

Posted by dfreeman on February 6, 2008 at 10:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)

nicksjuzunk - Yeah he would seem to be a great WR! He does need to lower his 40 time though! He's listed as a 4.65/40! chris Hannon ran a 4.4 or a 4.3 and he was 6'5" as well. We didn't use him enough IMO!!

Posted by RockyTopRK on February 6, 2008 at 10:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)

EJ Abrams-Ward has signed on with the Bog Orange!!!!!! A big land here!!

Posted by 99gator on February 6, 2008 at 10:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)

yeah, ramon buchanan

Posted by pdhuff on February 6, 2008 at 10:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Fowlkes is very positive. Now, get more like him. He and Walls and Douglas look good.

Sweating out Davis.

Posted by 99gator on February 6, 2008 at 10:23 a.m. (Suggest removal)

nickjuzunk

i have about four or five windows currently up. the big concern for florida....omar hunter's LOI has not been faxed. so, with two defected there is panic that history is repeating itself (marcus stroud)

Posted by ctownvol on February 6, 2008 at 10:25 a.m. (Suggest removal)

99gator- How you doin' today buddy? Hope all is well with you and hopefully our guys have been trating you ok this morning. Your guys played pretty dang good for 37 minutes last night. Not a bad showing for a young team on the road.

Posted by smokey90 on February 6, 2008 at 10:25 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Yes, Abrams-Ward on board, if we get McClain sphs can brag IMO

Posted by UTBEATEMALL on February 6, 2008 at 10:25 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I think Fowlkes would be more like a Marcus Monk from Arkansas or a Urritia from Louisville. I think Abrams-Ward who is known to be a high flier on the basketball court has the potential to be a Calvin Johnson! One of the greatest things that will be a byproduct of potentially landing these guys are that they would be absolutely dominate in the run blocking game. They are both big, strong, agressive defenders that should translate into them being able to pancake smaller defensive backs and crack block on DEs and LBs. That ability will make them even more dangerous in play action.

Posted by jweaver3 on February 6, 2008 at 10:26 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Picking up some big names now
GO VOLS
GO COACH FULMER
TXVOLSFAN

Posted by 99gator on February 6, 2008 at 10:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)

ctownvol

posted stuff earlier in the morning regarding basketball. it was about what i expected.

has anything happened to today for tenn that is unexpected (either positive or negative) or is everything going as planned

Posted by sjt18 on February 6, 2008 at 10:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)

UTKICKAZZ, I like the pick up too but Calvin Johnson ran a legit sub-4.4 forty.

Posted by BornaVolDieaVol on February 6, 2008 at 10:30 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Abrams-Ward... YOU ARE THE MAN!

Posted by VolsorCat on February 6, 2008 at 10:30 a.m. (Suggest removal)

9:30 to 10:30 has been a good hour. Two big athletes with options for playing positions. Keep the ball rolling!!!!!

Posted by sjt18 on February 6, 2008 at 10:31 a.m. (Suggest removal)

99gator, Abrams-Ward was thought to be going to UNC. There were a some anxious moments with Dallas Thomas but he signed.

Posted by ctownvol on February 6, 2008 at 10:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)

A couple of somewhat surprises. EJ Abrams-Ward is coming. He was thought to be leaning to UNC. OL Dallas Thomas from Baton Rouge was a little surprise. Hopefully more will roll in.

Posted by nicksjuzunk on February 6, 2008 at 10:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Heck freakin shoot snappin YEAHHHHHH!!

We got Ward!!

He always looked like a vol to me!! I bet Bruce Pearl had a small part in this as well.

99gator,
You are a man of great obsession. I can respect that. I can't say that I feel for you on the defections though. It's kinda like Bill Gates saying he lost his wallet ya know!

Posted by vintonvol on February 6, 2008 at 10:35 a.m. (Suggest removal)

utsports.com showing that Wilks has already signed.

Posted by UTBEATEMALL on February 6, 2008 at 10:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm an offensive coordinator and having Fowlkes and Abrams-Ward opens up soooo many options on offense. I can already see Abrams-Ward crack blocking on an OLB with Austin Johnson or Bartholomew blowing up the CB and Creer racing up the sideline! This could get nasty!! I wonder if last night's Florida game impressed Abrams-Ward as well?

Posted by pdhuff on February 6, 2008 at 10:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)

dfreeman 9:20 re Hughes, we'll see in 2009.

Abram-Ward in- good pick-up.

Posted by 99gator on February 6, 2008 at 10:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)

well, no more bad news florida's way.....

the rest of them are in, including hunter

Posted by smokey90 on February 6, 2008 at 10:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)

99gator florida lose any recruits?

Posted by nicksjuzunk on February 6, 2008 at 10:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)

enrique davis signed with Auburn. That chafes my rear.

Posted by GerryOP on February 6, 2008 at 11 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Not exactly earth shaking, but certainly better than some of us expected. Today still might be a magical mystery tour.

Posted by 99gator on February 6, 2008 at 11 a.m. (Suggest removal)

smokey90

2, ramon buchanan (LB) (miami)
ricky barnum (OL) (michigan)

looks like they will get tj lawrence (WR) (announcing today) and david young (ol from illinois)

Posted by kingmufasa76 on February 6, 2008 at 11:02 a.m. (Suggest removal)

espn has davis choosing between ole miss and vols come to vols davis

Posted by utnut on February 6, 2008 at 11:07 a.m. (Suggest removal)

UT SITE DOES NOT HAVE FOWLKES LOI LISTED

Posted by GiveHimSix1387 on February 6, 2008 at 11:15 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I just heard on Rivals that Tennessee is off Davis's list

Posted by 99gator on February 6, 2008 at 11:15 a.m. (Suggest removal)

got word, jermaine thomas chose fsu over tenn

Posted by nicksjuzunk on February 6, 2008 at 11:16 a.m. (Suggest removal)

TN stated their goal was to boost the D-line. They have done that. The rest is just icing. I like icing.

Posted by GiveHimSix1387 on February 6, 2008 at 11:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Weren't McClain and Coples already supposed to announce? Looks like those 2 are our only true options left.

Posted by GiveHimSix1387 on February 6, 2008 at 11:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Coples signed with North Carolina

Posted by VolsorCat on February 6, 2008 at 11:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Big Willie Style!!!! Welcome aboard......

Posted by smokey90 on February 6, 2008 at 11:23 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Where we expecting Jermaine Thomas? That is the first I ve heard of him.

Posted by TNfaninMS on February 6, 2008 at 11:23 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Rivals has Enrique Davis going to OLE MISS

Posted by nicksjuzunk on February 6, 2008 at 11:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Holy cow! Rivals has Enrique Davis to Ole Miss! That's wild! I guess he saw to much talent in front of him at UT.

Posted by GiveHimSix1387 on February 6, 2008 at 11:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Lets just get McClain and I will be satisfied!

Posted by dfreeman on February 6, 2008 at 11:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Good luck Enrique!! After their first 4 loss season they'll fire Nutt like they did Cutcliffe!! Then what?? Coples signed with North Carolina which proabably means McClain is going with him!! I'm pleased with the class so far!! Not finishing too bad!!

Posted by kingmufasa76 on February 6, 2008 at 11:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)

he went to ole miss cause he saw what nutt did with jones and mcfad

Posted by nicksjuzunk on February 6, 2008 at 11:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm looking for anything that resembles sphs_vol's predictions.

Alabama has a ton signed and a few committed who haven't signed. I don't know if they have room. Come on... just show my a couple of those cats and I'll say it's ok. Even if we don't get that promised top 15 QB.

Posted by dfreeman on February 6, 2008 at 11:31 a.m. (Suggest removal)

We have Wagner and Gerald Williams left to sign! where is Gerald Williams??

Posted by smokey90 on February 6, 2008 at 11:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I agree...McClain. Davis going to Ole Miss is not as bad as losing him to a yearly rival and spread the wealth in the west. He will be Nutt primary weapon I bet.

Posted by jdcvols on February 6, 2008 at 11:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Losing McClain to Clemson?? Dang

Posted by dfreeman on February 6, 2008 at 11:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Wow, McClain to Clemson!!

Posted by orangebloodgmc on February 6, 2008 at 11:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Well, I had really hoped we'd get Coples, but at least Coples and McClain didn't go to SEC schools, and even Enrique Davis, better Ole Miss than Auburn. Dt Dareus is still out there.

Posted by sjt18 on February 6, 2008 at 11:39 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Nutt has supposedly promised 3 different RB's that they'd get McFadden like touches... and also told Jevan Sneed that he was going to open the offense up passing.

There was a reason the guy was so hated at Arkansas. He's a louse.

After a couple of 5-7 loss seasons and no TV exposure, Davis will wish he'd chosen better.

If the thing about lower entrance requirements for Clemson is true then McClain made the best choice for him. He was in all likelihood a sign and place for UT.

Posted by sjt18 on February 6, 2008 at 11:40 a.m. (Suggest removal)

wr23, Please feel free to post only on bb threads since you feel that way.

Posted by 55Vol on February 6, 2008 at 11:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)

wr23..... most do care about TN football. SInce you do not, stop posting on the football articles....be the as your screen suggests...be real...stop posting here if you don't give a damn.

Posted by utnut on February 6, 2008 at 11:45 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I GUESS COACHES ARE SELLING ACC CHAMP OPEN FOR ALL GATOR BOWL WAS AT LESS THAN HALF CAPACITY FOR CHAMP GAME. MAYBE THESE PLAYERS FELT THE SEC COMPETITION WAS TOO MUCH

Posted by pdhuff on February 6, 2008 at 11:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Enrique to Ole mess, huh. Good chance of 4-7.

Tennessean.com - recruiting - poll of Tenn (state) HS signees- Most important factor- not School -not Academics ---COACHES!!! Very interesting.

Posted by getridoffoolmer on February 6, 2008 at 11:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)

WOW Mcclain to clemson???? Great job closin PHIL

Posted by Tenn_Dawg on February 6, 2008 at 11:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Dang....Clemson is racking up this year. One of Georgia's verbals, 4* TE Dwayne Allen (NC), signed with them this morning. Although that stings Georgia signed the #1 TE prospect last year and they are very deep at that position so it is not like a major blow. All of UGA others have signed LOI. CMR's son signed with Clemson so Allen will make a nice target.

It looks like UT is picking up some nice surprises this morning. Closing with Davis would have been huge for the Vols but hopefully he will go to Ole Miss verus Auburn since UGA plays them Auburn every year and UT picks them up the next two years....he looks like a stud. The Nuttster must really be selling those co-eds in the Grove because that is all there is in Oxford. Good luck the rest of the day.

Posted by nicksjuzunk on February 6, 2008 at 11:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)

wr23: Why make stupid comments? You obviously took the time to check it out, didn't you?

Posted by smokey90 on February 6, 2008 at 11:52 a.m. (Suggest removal)

sjt I met Nutt once, and he is likeable. But he does not keep his word. I'm sure not all of the Springdale (?) 5 was wrong. Even as a player, Nutt transfered out of Ark b/c he did not like the way things were going. I would not rely on his promises.

Posted by losvolsganan on February 6, 2008 at 11:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Barnacles! I keep having a hard time getting GVX.

Keep getting the "Internal Server Error" screen of death.

Anybody else having this trouble?

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

Posted by ONUV on February 6, 2008 at 11:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)

underwhelming class. 2 out of the last 3 have been this way.

what good is Fulmer if he can't recruit?

Posted by murrayvol on February 6, 2008 at 11:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)

99gator:
Don't worry about Omar. He's just seeing what degree of "limpness" he can create in the UF war room.

Posted by vols1086 on February 6, 2008 at noon (Suggest removal)

Is Abrams-Ward also going to try and play basketball? And why is he listed as an OL on Latest List of signees page? I though he was an ATH/OLB

Posted by vols1086 on February 6, 2008 at noon (Suggest removal)

Is Abrams-Ward also going to try and play basketball? And why is he listed as an OL on Latest List of signees page? I thought he was an ATH/OLB

Posted by kingmufasa76 on February 6, 2008 at 12:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

yea im have same trouble server error hmm looks like mediocre recruit year but still happy we will be fine go vols!

Posted by utnut on February 6, 2008 at 12:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)

SINCE THE BCS BEGAN IN 98 UT HAS AS MANY CHAMPS AS ANYONE EXCEPT LSU WHO BACKED IN THIS ONE AND HAD HOMEFIELD IN BOTH. ALL THE ANNUAL POWERS SUCH AS USC FSU ND GA FL TX AND OTHERS HAVE TOP RECRUITING CLASSES EVERY YEAR THE ONLY THING BLACK ABOUT TODAY IS YOUR ATTITUDE. WHAT DOES YOUR ATTITUDE SAY TO THE YOUNG MEN WHO HAVE SIGNED LOI

Posted by getridoffoolmer on February 6, 2008 at 12:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I normally LIKE this day but this year it has become dreaded! How knows how many Phil can lose with these guys? He can lose at least 3 a year with top talent how many can he lose with below average talent?

Posted by orangebloodgmc on February 6, 2008 at 12:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)

ONUV, this signing class not quite finished yet, but of the classes that have been finished, 2 out of the last three were top 3 in the nation. Sorry about your half-empty glass.

Posted by nivatne on February 6, 2008 at 12:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Are we in the running for anyone else? I not talking main targets we all knew a/b, but just random 3 stars still looking around???

Posted by utnut on February 6, 2008 at 12:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

pryor just said live on espnu he reads the message boards all the time!!!!!!!

Posted by losvolsganan on February 6, 2008 at 12:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)

You're so right, getrid...

You don't want to watch TN lose.

Find a winning team to watch before the fall. It will do wonders for your morale, if not your moral fibre.

Posted by getridoffoolmer on February 6, 2008 at 12:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)

utnut

HOW MANY SEC CHAMPIONSHIPS HAVE WE WON? 0 HOW MANY HAVE WE LOST? 3. HOW MANY OF THOSE TEAMS HAVE BEEN TO A BCS BOWL SINCE 98 MORE THAN ONCE? ALL OF THEM! BESIDES FSU!

Posted by smokey90 on February 6, 2008 at 12:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)

It is a good thing that fans can't be fired.

Posted by sjt18 on February 6, 2008 at 12:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

ONUV as typical choose a time frame tha suits his purpose.

Since 2002, UT's recruiting classes have averaged 10th. The last three recruiting classes prior to this one have averaged 10th- 4th, 23rd, and 3rd.

IF this class ends up at 30 or so... the last four classes will have averaged 15th. However that really isn't accurate because it isn't weighted. Maybe I'll take time to do that in a little while...

Until then, here's what it the effect it will have: an unweighted average of this the last two classes is (23+3)/2 = 13th, the weighted avg which is more accurate is (23X23 + 3X32)/55 = 11th.

Posted by mparker on February 6, 2008 at 12:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

okay, look, a primer on football;

Skill playdrs are available EVERY single year, and can step in and play quickly. The one excption might by WR, where it seems difficult to find kids big, fast, AND smart.

At team is only as good as the offensive and defensive lines. It takes at at least a year to learn the assignments and get strong enough (and big en0ught) to play. That is why you don't see a lot of freshmen playing for UT on the line.

UT went HARD after linemen. They got a lot of them. Sure, it would have been nice to pick up a new running back star or too, but not that big of a deal.

Just remember: you have 5 o-linemen and 4 o-linemen playing. Those kids HAVE A LOT OF WORK TO DO to be ready to play.

CPF is laying a foundation with this class.

Posted by utmdm on February 6, 2008 at 12:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Guess our scrimmage did not help as much as we had hoped.

Posted by losvolsganan on February 6, 2008 at 12:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Well, some people throw out their vows and abandon their wife and children the minute their wife's butt starts to sag a little.

Personally, I'm more a creature of habit. I'll love my wife 'till death do us part, and I'll stick w/ the Vols even if they became Vandy.

Posted by sjt18 on February 6, 2008 at 12:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)

2007 No. 3
2006 No. 23
2005 No. 4
2004 No. 11
2003 No. 18
2002 No. 2

UT's class rankings according to Rivals for those interested.

Going into the 2009 season, UT will have players from two top 5 classes.

Posted by cjraney on February 6, 2008 at 12:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)

This years class is decent not great. However, 2 of the last 4 yrs have been top 4 in the nation. The sky is not falling, we addressed some needs, have an all new offensive coaching staff, and for most Vol fans next season should be an exciting and successful one. Go Vols!

Posted by utnut on February 6, 2008 at 12:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)

fulmers not going anywhere. get a new team or get on board!!! live with it lol by the way my post said except lsu who backed in the last one. also if you guys want to count the media darling osu as multiple appearances ? what a joke 04 one game away from nc game played for sec several times. i dont'like losing either but as forrest gump says ..it happens without hope men are miserable. enjoy the rest of your day

Posted by LazhilUT on February 6, 2008 at 12:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)

This is sad...when we're competing for a recruit with Tennessee State and Carson Newman and then we lose someone to freakin' Clemson...
Stay the course...

Posted by sjt18 on February 6, 2008 at 12:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)

mparker12, I would love to agree more than anyone. However, UT signed only one DT. I like Bailey and Thomas but it would have been great to get one more solid OL. I'm sure Anderson is a great kid and maybe he'll surprise everyone but he seems more of a family ties type of pick up that will likely never contribute on the field.

DE wasn't a position of need this year but they shored that up some too. Davis would have been great to have but UT is pretty stocked with Foster, Hardesty, Creer, Vereen, Hawkins, and now Poole.

For a number of potential reasons, this was a very difficult recruiting year for UT. Barring some of the recent police run ins, maybe a few more of those guys fall UT's way. You can have ONE season like this once in awhile and still be successful. You can't really have two or three in a row without having big problems.

Posted by budrhon on February 6, 2008 at 12:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)

My God, Clemson is having the kinda recruiting class we should be having.They just signed the 3rd best running back in the country in Harper.

Posted by sjt18 on February 6, 2008 at 12:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Lazhil, I know you are young and may not know... but Clemson has a long and very good football tradition. They are in a BCS conference that needs a leader. Bowden and his staff are good recruiters.

Maybe the biggest key and something that folks like you should think about as you are tempted to run Fulmer down on places like this and demand that he be fired... This is probably the first year in awhile that Tommy Bowden's job wasn't rumored to be in jeopardy.

That's right. Recruits care about whether there are rumblings about getting rid of the HC when they make their choices.

Posted by kingmufasa76 on February 6, 2008 at 12:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)

according to rivals and scout we are 8th on both sites for recruiting in the east and ole miss jumped from 53 to 24 over all and we are 39 this is gonna be not good ... worse class we've seen in quite awhile ... although we do have a lot of talent on the hill now.. goo vols!

Posted by missrvrvol on February 6, 2008 at 12:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Good Looking recruits...but as the norm with Phil, most will not see the field for 2-3 years.

Posted by vintonvol on February 6, 2008 at 12:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I've read enough. This is Big Orange Country - Love it or Leave it. We all bleed orange here. I don't mind dissenting opinions, but some of you out there wouldn't be happy if God Almighty were coaching the Vols (and I don't mean Steve Spurrier). Get a grip. Nobody here is losing food off of their table if UT has a down year in recruiting, unless you're dumb enough to bet your money on what 20 year old kids do on a Saturday afternoon. Lighten up.

Posted by rabidvol1998 on February 6, 2008 at 12:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)

hey Dave - in your last article you predicted Mclain to Clemson, in this one you say we were "thought to be in the lead". Which one is it?

Seems like we've had 1 1/2 good surprises and 1/2 a bad surprise. Let's keep going and finish strong.

Give me 20-22 D-I prospects who love the orange (TN version) and let's go to work and see what John says about them 4 years from now in his review.

Posted by Tenn_Dawg on February 6, 2008 at 1:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Bama will probably have the #1 class. Julio Jones, #1 WR prospect, just signed LOI. Damn Nick Satan.

Posted by ACG on February 6, 2008 at 1:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I dont understand the need for CONSTANT negativity either. Sure we all get frustrated, but some of you log on each and every day to gripe. Do you think that is helping or hurting things?

Last night people were spun up about the fact that KNS writes negative artices (and they do), then rehashes them for days on end. I think that all of the negativity encourages the negative articles - because the more "hits" a page gets, the more KNS can charge for ad revenue. Wouldnt it stand to reason that some of you naysayers should calm down? I'm not saying all the recruits read the MBs and local paper sites, but I'm sure a good many of them do.

Posted by rabidvol1998 on February 6, 2008 at 1:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hey Foolmore - I can't tell if you think Fulmer is a bad coach, a bad recruiter or both. Which is it and when did his status change, since he has been rated as one of the best on both fronts. What's your theory on why he's changed for the worse?

Posted by kingmufasa76 on February 6, 2008 at 1:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

not downing the recruits acg im glad they are coming gives me more reason to say come to the org/wht game in april cant wait to meet these guys and get autoraphs! welcome and go vols!

Posted by NJVol on February 6, 2008 at 1:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Is there any precedence for these OL recruits changing to DTs? I know it usually works the other way at UT, but with their size, they would have played both ways in High School.

Posted by losvolsganan on February 6, 2008 at 1:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)

missrvvol - "the norm with Phil"???

I seem to recall quite a few freshmen on the playing field this past fall.

Then there is the new OC, who will probably have a big say in who gets playing time this coming fall and who does not.

As someone said before, "sorry your glass is always empty."

Could it be a case of FDS??? (Fulmer Derangement Syndrome).

-------------------------------------

rabidvol: nice catch! Dave, you got some 'splainin to do...

Posted by sjt18 on February 6, 2008 at 1:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

NJVol, Dan Williams was recruited as an OL.

Posted by thesavageorange on February 6, 2008 at 1:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

NJVol ,George Selvie at South Florida was a 2* O-line recruit coming out of HS.He is now an all american d-lineman.It does happen.When recruiting services rank kids, they rank them at the position they think they will play.

Posted by invisiblekid on February 6, 2008 at 1:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The biggest problem for the Vols the past couple of years has been the lack of pressure on the QB and the inability to consistently stop the run IMO. This would lead to the logical conclusion that an upgrade on the defensive line is needed. It didn't happen last year due to academics(Melancon), injuries(Martin), and missed calls leading to change in position(Brimfield). With all due respect to the guys we signed, it doesn't look like it is going to happen this year either.

One down year won't make or break the program, but Chavis' defenses haven't looked so good without a first rounder plugging the middle. It is going to get tougher and tougher to win a championship without a championship caliber defensive line.

Posted by Richmondvol on February 6, 2008 at 1:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

bottom line is that none of us no crap about these kids. Its a guessing game to a large degree. These are 17-18 year old kids. Some will end up doing great as expected, and others will get hurt, fail out, be average, be role players, etc. All you have to do is look at our 2002 class which was a top 5 class and became a big part of the 2005 season. Also, we had a great class last year, so Phil could risk not having a great clsss this year because of the number of kids and the quality of kids he signed last year. As far as the recruiting services go. Keep in mind that the stack rankings are based not only on the number of stars per kid, but also the overall number of signees. So, some of the folks you see ahead of us didnt necessarily recruit a higher quality athlete, they simply had a greater numbr of signees. I would not get overly concerned about this class. If we have a good season coming up, and a stable coaching staff, things will be back to normal next year. Not to mention, if you dig into the bios on the kids we did sign it appears to be a good class. You guys act like we signed a bunch of I-AA talent. Go Vols!

Posted by GerryOP on February 6, 2008 at 1:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)

From VolNation. Summary to an article on UT recruiting:

"Make no mistake about it. Everyone at this level has to recruit to win. I am not going to cry about this class, but I will leave you with this. UT absolutely has to make a splash on the football field in 2008. As a program it is now forced to shove its way back into the national consciousness. Until they earn the national respect and attention they will struggle on the recruiting trail. It is as simple as that."

Full article, along with a nice article on C.J. Watson at:

http://www.volnation.com/

Posted by UTBEATEMALL on February 6, 2008 at 1:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)

You idiots make me sick! J.T. Floyd is quoted on Rivals.com as saying the only reason he started looking elsewhere was because of all the talk of people wanting Fulmer fired! He said that he didn't want to pick a school that had a coaching change while he was there! I blame you idiots that run your own National Championship coach down and Hamilton for not giving Fulmer a raise. Most people have to worry about other coaches talking trash about our coaches. We have half our own fan base putting down the coach that won the SEC East this year! Hamilton gave rival recruiters all the proof they needed to give recruits that Fulmer's on the way out by not giving him a raise. Hamilton listened to the idiot Vol fans and some senseless boosters and together you ruined this recruiting class. Fulmer is a proven recruiter and last time I checked we pulled Chris Donald, Chris Walker, and Ben Martin for all you idiots that say that Coach Chavis can't recruit! For the sake of the program please root for the Vols and our coaches or root for somebody else!!

Posted by sjt18 on February 6, 2008 at 1:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Agree invisiblekid. This year could be a decent rotation at DT with Bolden, Williams, Fisher, and Langley. Two of those guys will be seniors though.

I think DE is getting stronger. This year they'll have Brown, Ayers, Walker, Martin, and maybe Williams and/or Donald depending on where those guys end up playing. Mathis may yet fit in somewhere at DT/DE.

UT really needed another DT to develop for 2009. Hopefully Hall and Sykes will make it in next year.

Posted by NJVol on February 6, 2008 at 1:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The way Justin Tuck abused the Patriots OL, these DTs don't even have to be that big any more. He was a DE in college. Ainge remembers him well I'm sure.

Posted by bigorangedude on February 6, 2008 at 1:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)

We got some good players, some of these guys will compete immediately. I especially like Ward, I believe he will be the next great LB at UT. Even though its not our best crop, a great season next year will ensure this type of recruiting year won't repeat itself. My biggest concern going into next year is the defensive line. Even with a great defensive end and great LB's, we still need the big physical guys in the middle of the defensive line.

Posted by ONUV on February 6, 2008 at 1:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)

with all these great recruiting classes, where are the championships?

outermonvolia.com

Posted by GiveHimSix1387 on February 6, 2008 at 1:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Be happy with what we got and work with it. We will be fine. Who here would rather have the #1 class along with a 7-6 season that including losing to UL Monroe at home? I'll take SEC East champs and one drive away from the Sugar Bowl along with a mediocre recruiting class.

BEAT BAMA!

Posted by sjt18 on February 6, 2008 at 1:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)

UTKICKAZZ, you are operating on what may be a faulty assumption. Some of the posters here may be posers... fans of other schools that get joy out of stirring up trouble.

BTW, Martin cited Cutcliffe, not Chavis, as a coach that greatly influenced his decision.

If you have access to Floyd's quote, it might be nice to post it here.

***** As I posted earlier, this is one of the few years that Tommy Bowden hasn't faced calls for his job at some point during the season or immediately after it. The response? Clemson is having one of their best years ever and beating UT every which way we turn... you know? The UT that had one of the nation's winningest coaches on the hotseat last fall....

Posted by sjt18 on February 6, 2008 at 1:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

ONUV, make up your mind... Either throw stones at the recruiting or at the championship drought... you can't have it both ways.

Posted by Colliervol on February 6, 2008 at 1:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

One middle-of-the-road recruiting haul isn't going to kill anybody. Two or three might and that bears watching.

All the negative bloviating by the usual suspects on this site and we've come to expect that. At the end of the day, Fulmer will still be your coach until he decides to retire. Digest that and enjoy. On to spring practice.

Posted by sjt18 on February 6, 2008 at 1:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

ONUV, make up your mind... Either throw stones at the recruiting or at the championship drought... you can't have it both ways.

Posted by bigorangedude on February 6, 2008 at 1:47 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The biggest thing on defense is that UT's defense needs to learn how to tackle, though I wouldn't put Berry in that category. This has been an ongoing problem with UT's defense the past several years, is too many missed tackles. Is the problem with Chavis style or is it other defensive coaches? I don't know, but there is a problem and we need to fix it! We have great athletes, so I can only assume its coaching technique.

Posted by sjt18 on February 6, 2008 at 1:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Thank you Colliervol. My biggest disappointment is that they didn't sign more help at DT. I think DE looks OK. OL may be a little thin but many have thought that Douglas will end up a OT and not a TE.

DT has been UT's Achilles Heel ever since Harrell got injured.

Posted by auttat on February 6, 2008 at 1:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Just looked on Scout for the first time, and they have Stephaun Raines and Gerald Williams as 1 star recruits. I know Raines was never ranked very high, but Williams was a 5 star at one point. Granted, his 4 or 5 stars have boosted our rankings for 3 years, but I will definitely take the trade off if the kid, excuse me, young man gets in school.

I was able to catch Hooker's radio show this morning, and I have to agree with something he said. I don't see any of the people we signed this year being instant contributors. However, I actually have a good feeling about a few of them and hope that we are all surprised in a few years.

Posted by sjt18 on February 6, 2008 at 1:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)

bigorange, tackling isn't a problem for McKenzie either. I look for that guy to be a real headhunter this fall.

If Gerald Williams actually makes it in this time... opposing ball carriers have reason to be very, very afraid.

Posted by jdcvols on February 6, 2008 at 1:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)

sjt18, I have been drinking lemonade as you suggested yesterday. Pleased that we got Ward, he played High School ball in our area.

In your opinion, who is really on the board that we could sign?

Posted by NJVol on February 6, 2008 at 1:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Agreed bigorangedude....my wife is always yelling.."You got to hug 'em to bring him down!!"

Posted by bigorangedude on February 6, 2008 at 1:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

sjt18- By the way, thanks for the info from John MacArthur, I printed it out and found it very helpful!

Posted by thesavageorange on February 6, 2008 at 1:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Recruiting services do take quantity into account.For example ,UT is ranked 36 right now.(according to rivals)However 10 teams ahead of Tenn have lower rated star averages than UT.Notre Dame has the highest Star avg at 3.96.Tennessee's star avg is 3.06.Not a huge difference.Anylist will tell you that the difference beetween a 4* and a 3* could be 1 position ranking difference.Poole was a 3*, and the guy ranked 1 place ahead of him is a 4.Would have liked a group like last yr , but I'm not going to judge them b/c I haven't seen a one play college football.

Posted by sjt18 on February 6, 2008 at 1:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)

auttat, I think Poole could be an instant contributor except for the logjam at RB. Gerald Williams is definitely in that category and could easily be a one season player then jump to the NFL.

If Abrams-Ward or Fowlkes can cut it at WR then they could be instant impact with their size.

Walls may be a guy that could contribute early.

I really don't know about the OL's or Douglas. UT is actually going to need an 8th OL this year. They seem to be solid 6 or 7 deep. Sawtelle should be ready to contribute... but there is an opportunity for PT.

Posted by bigorangedude on February 6, 2008 at 2:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)

NJVol- Yea, I know, I yell that a lot myself *LOL* If you notice, most of the real missed tackles are more the first half of the year. Its almost like they miss a lot of tackles the first half of the year and someone finally says "don't miss tackles or else I'll run you at 6 AM" *LOL* then they do better. Its got me baffled!

Posted by jdcvols on February 6, 2008 at 2:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

UTkickazz, one question, what started all of the negative talk about CPF? It just didn't come out of the woodwork.

Posted by UTBEATEMALL on February 6, 2008 at 2:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Here's the quote from J.T. Floyd:
"Initially, the reason I re-opened my recruitment was because so many people were telling me that Coach Fulmer was going to let go and that's when I decided to start looking around," Floyd told TheWolverine.com Tuesday night.

Posted by auttat on February 6, 2008 at 2:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

sjt18
My concern with Williams, and most likely the reason his stars have fallen, is where does he stand football wise? When was the last time he actually played high school or prep? I think it will take him atleast a year to get it all back.

Where do you see Poole contributing? I see him as a redshirt.

Ward and Fowlkes are possibilities, but nobody knows their position right now.

Posted by sjt18 on February 6, 2008 at 2:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)

jdcvols, I don't have good access right now but there were some rumors swirling last night. One was that Harris actually had not crossed UT off and was leaning toward the Vols. Another was that a big WR from Va might flip from ND.

In all honesty... I think this is probably it.

IMO, UT should not try to round the class out with fallback players. Sign these