Posted by KingsportVol on January 7, 2008 at 9:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I was hoping we were finished with the Clawsons.No matter how you spell it.We even boycotted the pickles in my house.Anybody have any positive info on this guy?

Posted by dkerr on January 7, 2008 at 9:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I like this guy.

Posted by dfreeman on January 7, 2008 at 9:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

umm... what?? Ok, I did a double take on this one!! Mildly exciting, extremely scarey! He went sooooo far outside the family with this one, they'll have to tell this guy what the school colors are!! LOL Might be the best hire ever who knows til they get here right??

Posted by GerryOP on January 7, 2008 at 9:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Don't think so.... But, with less than 24 hours left on Good Ol' Phil's self-imposed semi-deadline, guess he is still looking for a rabbit to pull out of the hat.

Posted by TommyJack on January 7, 2008 at 9:22 p.m. (Suggest removal)

http://richmondspiders.cstv.com/sport...

Is this the guy?

Posted by rabidvol1998 on January 7, 2008 at 9:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I like this guy. Let' go. Been an OC and a head coach. His bio is excellent. Young enough to maybe be the next HC at UT when Fulmer retire in 8 years.

Posted by VolsorCat on January 7, 2008 at 9:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Just a little info: More can be found at

http://richmondspiders.cstv.com/sport...

Clawson, who was named the Patriot League Coach of the Year twice at Fordham, was awarded the 2005 Atlantic 10 Coach of the Year in only his second year in the league. It marked his third Conference Coach of the Year honor in his first seven years as a head coach.

National honors came Clawson's way that same season as he garnered the National Coach of the Year award from I-AA.org. That award made Clawson a two-time national award honoree, earning it once at two different schools. Clawson was also given both the Virginia Sports Information Directors Association (VaSID) Commonwealth Coach of the Year honor and the Richmond Touchdown Club College Coach of the Year award over the likes of Virginia Tech's Frank Beamer and Virginia's Al Groh.

Not a big name guy, but he seems to know something about coaching at the D1-AA. Not real excited about this, but willing to give him a chance. I don't see this pulling in any recruits......

Posted by KingsportVol on January 7, 2008 at 9:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Thanks TJ.

Posted by TommyJack on January 7, 2008 at 9:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

tapjr: EIGHT YEARS??

Posted by pdhuff on January 7, 2008 at 9:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

TJ, Little Miss Muffet sat on a tuffet, eating her curds and whey, along came a........I just can't do it.

Just do something.

Posted by justingh1 on January 7, 2008 at 9:29 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Whatta joke Villanova Fordham Richmond.I bet he told Fulmer I sa promase sir I's a bee gud an do whevur yu's a teell me a do.I've always said nobody pulls a rabbit out of the hat like Fulmer but I was thinking Malzahne not some bum from Richmond Ole phil has let me down on this one.

Posted by TommyJack on January 7, 2008 at 9:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)

PD: Should be no threat to the Big'Un. He said he was gonna search the whole scenario!
LSU beginning to play SEC ball.

Posted by pdhuff on January 7, 2008 at 9:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)

True TJ, long way to go . But remember OSU ran back the opening K-Off and then went away last year. Strength punishes, but speed kills. We could have a Spider!

Posted by rabidvol1998 on January 7, 2008 at 9:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Justingh1 - give us more than sarcasm. Excellence is excellence. one of the coaches in the NC game tonite is in his third NC game this decade. Where did he come from .. .? Youngstown St.

Posted by TommyJack on January 7, 2008 at 9:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

tapjr: A fair point. But whattabout that 8 yrs?

Posted by nicavol on January 7, 2008 at 9:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I like him. He has an "attacking offense" so maybe the 3 yard dinks on 1st down and throws to the sideline will be a thing of the past. Lets sign him and then get the MI QB coach as QB coach.

Posted by rabidvol1998 on January 7, 2008 at 9:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)

TJ - Could be 6 or 7. I think he will want to get 200 wins. That would be a great milestone.

Posted by pdhuff on January 7, 2008 at 9:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

TJ, tapjr has turned me to the Maloxx. 8 yrs for what?

Posted by TommyJack on January 7, 2008 at 9:47 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Me 2, PD. If it's 8 more, I'm buying KK stock.

Posted by txvolsfan on January 7, 2008 at 9:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Thank TJ
Guy sounds good to me and he physically fit for the negative people
TXVOLSFAN

Posted by TommyJack on January 7, 2008 at 10 p.m. (Suggest removal)

txvols: Looks a little skinny to me! Just kiddin.:)

Posted by vol52 on January 7, 2008 at 10:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)

TommyJack What about the moon pies?

Posted by Richmondvol on January 7, 2008 at 10:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I live in Richmond. I went to UT, am a die hard Vol, season ticket holder, etc, but I live in Richmond, two miles from the Univ of Richmond so I follow them closely. This guys seems to be the real deal. Sort of reminds me of Cut, but younger and more creative. Disciplined, no BS, well respected by his players, and very creative on offense. Richmond is not an easy place to win and he has done very well in a short period of time. That said, Richmond is one of the best schools in the country academically speaking. Not sure the Vols can handle the playbook the way the Spiders can. I think this would be a good hire...would rather see this than Adkins which is where we are headed I am afraid...

Posted by cnalumni on January 7, 2008 at 10:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Richmond Who????

Posted by TommyJack on January 7, 2008 at 10:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)

RichmondVol: What a cheap shot re the playbook. Man that was low-down.

Posted by TommyJack on January 7, 2008 at 10:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Vol52: Don't have'em where I live (TX)..found their website, will order. Now if I could just find an RC!

Posted by ronnpaula7 on January 7, 2008 at 10:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)

This guy looks pretty good.

Here are his awards:
-- 2005 I-AA.org National Coach of the Year
-- 2005 Atlantic 10 Coach of the Year
-- 2005 Eddie Robinson Coach of the Year Award Finalist
-- 2002 Schutt Sports/American Football Monthly I-AA National Coach of the Year
-- 2002 Patriot League Coach of the Year
-- 2001 Patriot League Co-Coach of the Year

Posted by dfreeman on January 7, 2008 at 10:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)

TommyJack - just go to Bryson City, NC for the RC there is a distribution plant there!! What part of Texas?? What is there to do in Austin? My wife and I have a family reunion there this summer!!

Posted by SmokeDog72 on January 7, 2008 at 10:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

He must approve of the sacred charts.

Posted by RealistVolFan on January 7, 2008 at 10:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Is this really where Tennessee is now? We couldn't even hire the quarterback of Alex Smith...Mikey H is turning this program into a laughing stock. Honestly, if you are going to hire a 1-AA coach, why would you go anywhere outside of Boone, North Carolina?
This is a joke.

Posted by dfreeman on January 7, 2008 at 10:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

who cares what Eddie George has to say about Ohio State!! He said he voted for Charles Woodsen simply because "Manning couldn't beat Fla."!! Thus rendering his opinion useless!! Sorry, watching halftime bs and they were asking Eddie what he thought about the game... My opinion... Ohio State is showing why there needs to be a playoff system!! Not to mention our beloved Vols beat Eddie and his overrated Buckeyes in his last bowl game!!!! Wrong story!! Sorry Guys!!

Posted by bobo_the_vol on January 7, 2008 at 10:22 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm a student at App State and I was sitting on the 50 yard line during the Richmond game. I'll be honest, I was pretty impressed with their offense, as young as they were they were recruited by this guy. (their defense is another story .. can you say 313 yards for Armanti Edwards ;) ) But their offense played well against a very, very, very good App D.

I like the jab at a new guy :)

Posted by BigOrangeJeff on January 7, 2008 at 10:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

GOP, you're still getting it wrong. Fulmer said from the get-go that he hoped to have someone in place by 1/8, but has consistently maintained that it was NOT a drop-dead date.

So go ahead and read what you want into the articles. Keep putting words in Fulmer's mouth. Go on hating Fulmer. Stay in your miserable existence. Keep doing all of this, but do all of us - and yourself - a huge favor. Find another team.

Posted by TommyJack on January 7, 2008 at 10:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Dfreeman: About 20 miles N of SA..65 or so min. from The Peoples Republic of Austin. Actually, there's everything available there...lakes, rivers, hill country, nitelife, good food...Pretty area. Neat city....
I think I've seen RC's in country stores here. (But no moon pies!)

Posted by dfreeman on January 7, 2008 at 10:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

bobo_the_vol - wish the weather was right for skiing!! I miss skiing up there!! Very fond memories hanging out in Boone!!

Posted by agentorange on January 7, 2008 at 10:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

ron paul for oc

Posted by agentorange on January 7, 2008 at 10:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

btw, tennessean.com is posting all these stories before kns.

Posted by dfreeman on January 7, 2008 at 10:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)

TommyJack - LOL I live in Chattanooga!! I'll send you a case!! How far is Houston from Austin??

Posted by TommyJack on January 7, 2008 at 10:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Gerry: I never got the impression you live a miserable existence. Do you? lol

Posted by utwick on January 7, 2008 at 10:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)

This candidate may be ready to step up to the plate. He has won and has turned programs around. A lot of big time coaches started at smaller schools, so let's not snicker at that. If he ends up being offered the job, we would still need some assistants who can make up for the recruiting punch we had with TT and Cut. Obviously this name is not going to bowl over some recruits like a Norm Chow might, but I don't know if Spence from Clemson would have either. Time will tell. Maybe we'll hear something soon and can move on to recruiting.

Posted by GerryOP on January 7, 2008 at 10:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)

You're absolutely right BigOJ, Good Ol' Teflon Phil. Won't commit to nothin' he might be held to. Whay a guy, our hero!

Posted by justin35us on January 7, 2008 at 10:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Isn't it time for a certain writer for KNS to post another speculative article based on no development other than a guy stating the obvious, such as he would stay if promoted to OC.?
I.E. Trooper Taylor staying?
First the writer pushed the Crompton issue and now he seems dedicated to seeing Trooper stay.
I like the idea of Clawson, proven record of improvement with each job and a wide range of experience. I would like to see what else is possible. I saw thatUCLA wants Chow as OC, if that happens it will be ugly. Long shot I'm sure, he will likely end up in Hawaii.

Posted by GerryOP on January 7, 2008 at 10:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Not me TJ! Actually, a pretty good existence! ;>)

Posted by TommyJack on January 7, 2008 at 10:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)

dreeman: Houston would be about 2.5 hrs. from Austin.

Posted by grogpaw on January 7, 2008 at 10:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Phil Fulmer causes global warming.

Posted by GerryOP on January 7, 2008 at 10:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Sorry! Actually (10:33), "What a guy, our hero!" But you get my drift.

Posted by TommyJack on January 7, 2008 at 10:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

grogpaw: Wrong. Phil Fulmer causes global tectonic plate shifting (with his vertical leaps).

Posted by tngeoff on January 7, 2008 at 10:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I traveled most of the day...and THIS is what we're excited about? Whoah Nellie! We're on fire now.

Posted by ThaiVolFan on January 7, 2008 at 10:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I was skeptical at first because I didn't recognize his name. After researching him a little, he seems like an okay fit and a good coach on the rise. We'll see.
Should all be settled in no more than 2 days one way or the other.
Go Vols

Posted by TommyJack on January 7, 2008 at 10:47 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Geoff: I took the liberty of posting a link to Clawson (in your absence) :)

Posted by GerryOP on January 7, 2008 at 10:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hey, welcome home Geoff. You didn't feel the earth shake with the momentus announcement? It the words of the legendary pdhuff: "Looks like we may be gettin' us a Spider!"

Posted by TopperVol75 on January 7, 2008 at 10:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Any comments on posts tonight about LSU-OSU...pardon if I am missing them. But, '06 we had eventual NC Florida beaten in KnoxVegas till Ainge did the Gator Chomp...now, we had eventual NC LSU beaten in the SEC Championship until Ainge thought we were wearing White jerseys. NOT an Ainge basher, just coincidence???

Posted by PLEASEGETRIDOFTHENOTSOSLIMONE on January 7, 2008 at 10:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

This program is in MAJOR trouble.

Posted by tngeoff on January 7, 2008 at 10:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Thanks Bro'. I read it. I work with athletes from Lehigh. Thanks for hooking the link in my absence...Just for the record...this is not my idea of a coup. However, Geaux Tigers! Keep killing the Buckeyes! Watch out next year! Spider power comin' your way! Whoo hoo!

Posted by tngeoff on January 7, 2008 at 10:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)

GerryOP,

That was priceless!

Posted by Kwitcherbellyachin on January 7, 2008 at 10:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

TommyJack, they sell RC all over the place here in Tyler, TX... don't know why they don't down your way.

Posted by TommyJack on January 7, 2008 at 10:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I move we make Paul D. Huff the official Poet Laureate of this board.

Posted by tngeoff on January 7, 2008 at 10:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hear! Hear! I second that commotion!

Posted by GerryOP on January 7, 2008 at 10:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Geoff, all credit goes to pdhuff. I second TJ's movemen ... er ... motion.

Posted by chrisw2967 on January 7, 2008 at 10:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I heard they were also looking at the OC from Mars Hill . I bet your saying who is that ?
thats exactly what I was saying when I read this article.
I dont get these posts when people say that looks like a good hire when we know nothing about half these guys, except from what they are reading on these bios.
Other SEC teams will be laughing at Fulmer over this. Vandy we will be joining you shortly.
Surely this is not the best Fulmer can do.

Posted by tngeoff on January 7, 2008 at 10:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)

GerryOP,

He is most wise and all knowing!

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

Kwitcher: I think they do...but no Moon Pies!

Posted by tngeoff on January 7, 2008 at 11:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)

LSU now trying desperately to pull an impression of another SEC team. Struggling mightily to lose a big game they had hammered away...one might have thought. Odds bodkins and a thousand gadzooks! What am I watching? What am I reading? SEC Choking. Tennessee dreaming of grandeur from below. Where am I?

Posted by tngeoff on January 7, 2008 at 11:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Night guys. LSU is lookin' bad all of a sudden.

Posted by kdt0725 on January 7, 2008 at 11:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I like the rushing attack, but I would prefer a bit more passing. Could be the fact that a QB at Richmond is no good anyways. Running backs are much easier to come by. At the the same time it's good see Phil going outside of the box in his search. I'd like to see a few more interviews, maybe with some 1-A experience.

Patience my friends...Patience.

Posted by DennisVols on January 7, 2008 at 11:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Welcome back tngeoff
Glad your trip was a safe one.

Posted by ONUV on January 7, 2008 at 11:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)

while Gus Malzahn scores another TD

Posted by kdt0725 on January 7, 2008 at 11:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I know this isn't much, but here's a little highlight real and shows a few plays from their offense. Running QB. Other than that, formations are nearly identical, as are the play calls. Again though this isn't much and is impossible to really make a judgement.

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

Posted by iowavol on January 7, 2008 at 11:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Thank you Lord for small favors that tngeff is signing off and we don't have to read any more of his diatribe.

Posted by bobo_the_vol on January 7, 2008 at 11:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Their QB was only a sophmore, and he ran for 500+ yards. I'd like that seeing as how we've got Crompton's legs next year .. though in the game I saw I saw their QB throw for over 200 yards + 3 scores vs a very good ASU secondary. Still, definately like the hire. Also, Crompton's had two years under Coach Cut too .. that might be a big difference maker in the passing game for him.

And I wish the weather would get more wintery here too :(

Posted by kdt0725 on January 7, 2008 at 11:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)

A few names who would be interesting interviews:

Chip Kelly-Oregon OC
Chris Ault-Nevada HC
Jerry Moore-HC App. State
Greg Gregory-OC South Florida

All run a variation of the spread. I don't know the interest level we have in it, but I thought maybe it would be nice to start working towards it. Tell me what you think. Additional coaches, comments, disagreements etc.

Posted by SavageVol08 on January 7, 2008 at 11:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I was a student at Richmond when he took over the head coaching job and he took UR from a 2-10 team to a 10-2 team in his first year. He has taken the Spiders to the playoffs in each of his years as HC at UR and has advanced each time. He also turned Tim Hightower into a candidate for the Walter Payton Award and won the CAA conference in his second year. Neyland stadium will be a little different than the UR stadium which only holds about 2000 people. Go Vols!

Posted by movol77 on January 7, 2008 at 11:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Even a good article about an interview with an OC candidate drops into the typical 7th grade mocking of our UT head coach. Tell us more about donuts, global warming, staying the course, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah. Come 'on now, show yourself. Post your MySpace or Facebook glory.

Posted by Phowell23 on January 7, 2008 at 11:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hubbs reported on Volquest that Stan Drayton (RB coach at Florida) told a recruit tonight he no longer recruits for Florida. Rumors have been circling of him coming to TN. Possible news tomorrow or Wednesday of him coming aboard TN's new staff.

http://footballrecruiting.rivals.com/...

Posted by Pullingguard on January 8, 2008 at 12:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Clawson seems like a viable candidate for the O/C job... Hey, Auburn got their new O/C from Troy and much was made about that, so it seems like Clawson stacks up pretty good.. Whomever Fulmer selects it behooves all of us to accept the selection with positive attitudes for UT really needed some new blood and new ideas in the coaching staff.

Posted by asleep on January 8, 2008 at 12:07 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I can't believe some people on this site would rather have a guy 2 years removed from HS who coached up a WAC team over a guy with multiple coach of the year awards from the leagues in which he has been a head coach. I swear, I think some wouldn't be happy unless we hired Pete Carroll or Steve Spurrier as OC. C'mon! I've said it enough to be tired of it but Urban Meyer, Jim Tressel, Lou Holtz, Bobby Bowden, etc... all got their starts at nowhere universities in lower divisions. The common denominator was that they won at that level and the winning didn't stop when they moved up. This guy from Richmond seems cut from the same mold and I, for one, am glad Fulmer is finally looking lower for successful, aggressive guys in those leagues rather than retreads in Division 1 on a lateral move. If the guy can coach, he can coach - period. Not 2 days ago everyone was on the Quarles bandwagon and he has never coached a down of college football. The haters just don't, and never will, like any choice that Fulmer makes. That's too bad because the guy will likely be in the college Hall of Fame and deserves more credit than that from UT "fans". Go Vols!!!

Posted by powalleych on January 8, 2008 at 12:23 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Does anyone know where I can find 2008 Football Schedule on this web page. It used to be here but now I can't find it anymore.

Posted by ge446 on January 8, 2008 at 12:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Kingsport and any other posters who don't appreciate the Clausen name are perhaps unaware that Casey beat both Florida and Miami in their own stadiums in the same year. Casey didn't lose the LSU playoff game several years ago. It was a couple of dropped passes by "Great Recievers" and a defense that could not stop the second string QB from LSU from running all over the field. Rick's comeback win over LSU in Tiger Stadium will go down as one of the alltime great comebacks in history, almost as good as the Notre Dame comeback....

Posted by weisgarber2003 on January 8, 2008 at 12:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)

"Posted by GerryOP on January 7, 2008 at 9:19 p.m

Don't think so.... But, with less than 24 hours left on Good Ol' Phil's self-imposed semi-deadline, guess he is still looking for a rabbit to pull out of the hat."

Quite simply, it is just called Fulmer desperation.

Posted by auttat on January 8, 2008 at 12:31 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Hey, he does have something in common with our beloved Vols! Didn't Richmond lose the 1AA National Championship game 3 years in a row? UT has lost the SEC last 3 times they have played for it. Seems like a good fit.

Just kidding, not the big name I was hoping for, i will say.

Posted by FWBVol on January 8, 2008 at 12:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Makes sense that Drayton would want to leave Florida, the only RB Urban believes in using is Tim Tebow. If Drayton stays at Florida they'll have to change his job to QB running game coordinator.

I would love to get a coach from Urban's staff. Looking at Drayton's bio, he coached in Green Bay, which means he has ties to former Vol linebacker Reggie McKenzie, who is in upper level management with the Packers. I know a good word from Reggie wouldn't hurt in Fulmer's decision process.

I'm not worried about a mid major coach joining the staff as O-Coordinator. asleep said it right, a lot of guys got their starts at small schools. Tressel went from Youngstown State to Ohio State. Urban started at Bowling Green. If the guy is a good football coach and can add some new wrinkles into the mix, I say bring him on.

The OC hire will make some of us unhappy, but I suggest we all give whoever gets the job a chance on the field in the fall before we start bashing him if he didn't play for Tom Landry or coach under Tom Osborne.

Posted by andy112382 on January 8, 2008 at 1:02 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Why do so many people keep whining 'we couldnt even hire Cignetti' or whoever.....how in the world do you know Fulmer actually offered them the job?!? I don't know what world you live in, but an interview doesn't include a complimentary job offer ever time. An interview is just that, digging too deep for conspiracy theories or reason to believe the world is coming to an end when there is just not anything more there than what is said.

Just wondering if this apparent secret inside Tennessee clan that apparently has soooo much more information, even more so than any media outlet in the world, has sources to go on.

Posted by fullbackless on January 8, 2008 at 1:03 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I say give him a chance.

Posted by mbible1utk on January 8, 2008 at 1:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I'd really like to see us go after Malzahn. One season at Arkansas and he turned their offense into a top offense, then one season at Tulsa and they were the nations best offense. Not to mention that if we did get Malzahn, there could be a chance that Mitch Mustain will transfer to Tennessee (and he wouldn't have to sit out a year). That would be a nice pickup at the QB position while we pick up in recruiting otherwise. I don't know that I like the Clawson guy so much.... quite honestly, his offense looked too much like the dink and dunk that we already have. I also have some uncertainty about the ability to staff around him and recover from this huge hit to recruiting that we've taken.

One idea that I have is that we go after Hawaii's Dan Morrison and bring him in as Co-Offensive Coordinator with Trooper Taylor. Dan Morrison is Hawaii's quarterback coach, he's taken on Timmy Chang, Colt Brennan, and Tyler Graunke. All of those guys were two star quarterbacks out of high school that left as top NCAA quarterbacks. The only downside is that he's a bit of a system guy, he's used to a run-and-shoot offense. That's why I'd want Trooper to come back and call plays. Morrison could be the passing game coordinator, and Taylor could do the playcalling. Getting Taylor back would tremendously help our recruiting.

Posted by wesw33z on January 8, 2008 at 3:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Not sure anyone mentioned this about Stan Drayton, he was the running backs coach at Villanova while Clawson was the OC - 96 to 98

Posted by madisonvillevol on January 8, 2008 at 6:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)

give him a chance. let's see, 40 and no ties to the big orange family, isn't that what everybody has been screaming for for the last month? i believe that a young man named hershel walker came from a class "a" school back in the late 70's. so what if he comes from a smaller school. football is football.

Posted by bigOmuscle on January 8, 2008 at 6:31 a.m. (Suggest removal)

That makes perfect sense. CPF is getting his staff together. This guy is pretty impressive. I'm a big fan of the run anywaysh the tandem of rb's we have, this could be pretty impressive. Clawson/Drayton... sounds pretty appealing to me.

Posted by KingsportVol on January 8, 2008 at 6:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)

ge446 Casey "Iceman"Clausen was one of my favorite QB's.I was only poking fun.

Posted by 55Vol on January 8, 2008 at 7:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)

RealistVolFan...that coach is close to 60 himself. This Richmond guy reminds me of Jim Tressel...you know the 1-AA coach at Youngstown State who won a NC at Ohio State and has had them in the championship game 3 times in seven years? Not even the Urban legend, Richt, Saban or Spurrier( all deemed the coaching giants by many on this site ) have accomplished that. This Richmnod coach might be the real deal for instilling even more discipline in to the offense and also give afresh look at the playbook.

Posted by bigbluevol on January 8, 2008 at 8:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I have to echo a few things that people are saying. First, Clawson has a proven track record as a college coach (Malzahn did not). Second, Drayton coached with him at Villanova while Westbrook was a player there. That lends credence to the rumor that Drayton is coming to UT. Third, if you watched any of the 1-AA playoffs, then you know that this guy is a big time up and comer. That Richmond game against App State had all the offense you could want and had some aggressive play calling. Their passing offense statistics aren't concerning because their QB is much more of a runner than a passer. Fourth, App State's coach, Jerry Moore, is not going to become an OC at his age. He's in his mid to late 60's and there were rumors here in Chattanooga during the championship game that he might retire after the game. He didn't, but it shows you that his career is winding down. He's not going to wind down as an OC. This could prove to be a really great move. A young coach with energy and experience and aggressive play calling could reinvigorate the whole deal. If you're willing to go after Malzahn, you should be willing to give Clawson a chance.

Posted by ALLVOL12 on January 8, 2008 at 8:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I'd be willing to bet Fulmer will be calling the plays from the sideline next year...

Posted by hueypilot on January 8, 2008 at 8:52 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Good insight wess. Echo other comments about Florida RB coach being kinda like the Maytag repairman since they don't play running backs at Florida. Wouldn't hurt to have a little insider intel on our biggest obstacle on our schedule every year.

Posted by marc_ash on January 8, 2008 at 8:52 a.m. (Suggest removal)

The wild card is going to be how well this guy can pull recruits. All of his awards and accomplishments in the sub division are fine and dandy. But who really cares because translating that to the big time is never a sure thing. This guy is going to enter a whole new ball game coming into the SEC and he better be ready if he does come.

It will be important to look at how this guy can recruit in the SEC. Can he? I don't have any reason to believe he can. That being said, lets see how the cards fall. Hopefully they fall in a successful row.

Posted by RockyTopRK on January 8, 2008 at 8:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Hate to change the subject but wanted to mention this: The final AP poll is in with the Vols finishing #12 - Who finished BEHIND them and 13th??? You got it - none other than the Florida Gators! That news in itself made my day.

Posted by Volalumnus on January 8, 2008 at 8:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)

This is a call that could be bad or good. And we probably won't know till after the fact.
Fulmer will be the big question mark.
Is this hire just someone HE thinks he can push around or is it someone he will let try to be innovative to the TN offense.

Posted by RockyTopRK on January 8, 2008 at 8:57 a.m. (Suggest removal)

What bothers me about hiring Clawson is the factg that, like most Div. AA teams, he has used a running offense. I'd like to see someone come in that has a nice history of passing offense. If we're going after a running OC then why not go after Appalachian State's Jerry Moore? He's won 3 consecutive National titles - and by the way, they also beat Michigan!

Posted by uwishuwereassmartasme on January 8, 2008 at 8:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)

ALLVOl2

How much??

Posted by nicksjuzunk on January 8, 2008 at 9:01 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Phowell23,

Great info on Drayton. Recruiting tie into Florida... sounds like a winner. I can't say much for FL's running backs but that doesn't mean the man can't coach.

wesw33z,

Who are you? Batman? How the heck did you dig up that info?? Well done. The pieces may be coming together.

Casey Clausen was great. Some of you cats would have benched Peyton.

Fulmer will come through this year big in the face of adversity with great coaching hires and a regular season, sealing his legacy as a great coach. Few will actually care and will continue to sling insults while he keeps leading our favorite team.

Posted by volster on January 8, 2008 at 9:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm going to go way out on a limb here. I predict that whomever Fulmer selects as OC, TouchdownTN will say it was a bad choice, and the Vols are doomed. I know, I'm going way out on this prediction, but I also predict that he won't be alone, and a majority of the crybabies and haters will agree with him.

Posted by nicksjuzunk on January 8, 2008 at 9:16 a.m. (Suggest removal)

volster,

Agreed. I will go out on another limb and say that the choice will be proven good and even if we average 40 ppg, people will still complain.

"Hi. My name is Philip Fulmer. Despite winning a national championship and over 80% of my games while putting dozens of players in the NFL, I actually know nothing about coaching or selecting a coordinator and I am hell bent on destroying the program. I also have a Krispy Kreme iv attached to my bedside."

Let it rest guys, the man will get er' done.

Posted by waterskier3 on January 8, 2008 at 9:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)

the key point in the story is that this is only the 4th person out of the hundred or so fulmer says is lined up to be our OC....... come on... out of a hundred calls this is the best next in line?????

I don't care who he hires as long as they can recruit baby recruit.... but come on fat phil can't get 1 div-1 OC interested in coming to ktown..... NO michigan coaches please... they sux....

Again what does that say about ol phil and his ways???

.

Posted by waterskier3 on January 8, 2008 at 9:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)

on keeping phil forever.... the last 2 national champions have had 3 differeent coaches in the same time we've had 1.... in that time between those two shools they won 4 NC, 8 or so SEC championships and 10 divisional titles and won 90% of the bowls they've played in....

STAY THE COURSE AND GIVE PHIL A FREE RIDE..because tn fans are scared of change... I would prefer to have 3 different coaches in 10 years and 2 NC and 5 SEC titles anyday....... its all about winning

Posted by Chrisoda751 on January 8, 2008 at 9:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)

RockyTopRK, I've been reading about this guy and he's not just a rushing offense type. Nine of the past 13 years, he's produced an All-Conference QB. Looks like this guy plays to his strengths. I'm optimistic. Here's a link with more information.
http://grfx.cstv.com/photos/schools/r...

Posted by rellis on January 8, 2008 at 9:31 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm a UT grad living in Richmond for 12 years and I have followed the Richmond Spiders during that time. Clawson is the real deal. He took a stale program and breathed new life into it. He is very good at taking the personnel he has and fitting the system to them. Not vice versa. Of course they were a strong running team this year because they had one of the best backs in 1-AA in Tim Hightower. Clawson is a rising star. I can't believe Richmond has been able to keep him as long as they have. I hope we get this guy!

Posted by waterskier3 on January 8, 2008 at 9:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)

NO MICHIGAN COACHES.... NO RETREADS FROM MICHIGAN PLEASE NO...PLEASE NO..... THEY ARE TERRIBLE AND PREDICTABLE ON OFFENSE..... PLEASE....NO....NO....

Posted by pdhuff on January 8, 2008 at 9:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)

One thing I do know. I'm glad Flynn didn't play against us. Wow. Woodshed special.

Congrats to Vols on 12th place finish. Didn't make my top 10 standard, but at least I'm like little Johnny loking thru the candy store window. I can see the Promised Land, but can't eat. As we say in the hills, "I hear you clucking, but I can't find your nest"!

Now we gird ourselves for the final push to the Marne of recruiting. I've noted with interest some say we're being selective. I like that. Some say Phil's lost his touch. Don't like that. Some say Phil's too preempted by losing his bud Cut to concentrate. Scout and Rivals say we've lost our minds if we think this is going to be a top 20 class. AJC Top 100 agrees. We'll see. its odd I like to play Spider. Did it come from Richmond?

Going into bro skaggs territory. Doldrums=time to watch a little BBall.
Always stay the course. I know some of our good friends (the Ites) must sell
something .. Electrolux- Dare to Be Great Programs -Get Rich in Real Estate-Used Taxi Cabs etc. I get excited sometimes just reading their rosy and orange posts. Good 2008 to all.

Posted by bowerst on January 8, 2008 at 9:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)

How many people thought a relatively unknown guy from a relatively unknown school (Bruce Pearl) would have the UT basketball program in the Final Four conversation in 2008?

Also, this is just about the 5th name we've heard. Doesn't mean he is our next O.C.

Posted by sjt18 on January 8, 2008 at 9:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I like this guy and he is hardly a desperate choice... or scrapping the bottom of the barrel. The guy has turned two teams around on a dime. Players love to play for him according to a poster on another board. He claimed to have a relative on the staff at UR.

Not only is this guy a good candidate for OC... he looks like a great guy to replace CPF in 3-6 years.

The staff could potentially be Clawson OC, Drayton RB, Adkins OL, Debord TE/WR (maybe co-OC or ST Coord), Loeffler QB. That would be a very, very solid staff with alot of youth.

The recruiting angle of such a staff would also reflect some pretty good savvy by Fulmer. The SEC is becoming more difficult with all of the SEC teams on the rise. They'll continue to recruit there but have to open up new areas... enter this staff:

Clawson- Va, NC, Md, DC, Pa, NY, NJ, OH
Drayton- FL, PA, etc
Loeffler/Debord- OH, MI, IL, IN, PA, TX, FL (Mich has long done a good job in both states)
Adkins- Ga, AR, NC, AL, MS

UT would have recruiting "ins" from NY to Texas and Illinois to Florida... about half the US population.

Posted by sjt18 on January 8, 2008 at 10 a.m. (Suggest removal)

"TommyJack - just go to Bryson City, NC for the RC there is a distribution plant there!! What part of Texas?? What is there to do in Austin? My wife and I have a family reunion there this summer!!"

dfreeman... That's a little scary that you know where that plant is. I grew up about a mile from there.

Posted by sjt18 on January 8, 2008 at 10:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)

pdhuff, I'd say UT wins if Flynn had played.

As for recruiting, UT still has several good players on their board. Who at Rivals and Scout says they aren't going to make the top 20?

UT has 10-12 scholarships to give and maybe more if Foster and Mayo do go to the draft.

Outside of enjoying the "scoring" system of Rivals... I'll take a class that includes Morley, Faison, Warren, and possibly Mallett even though they don't count toward the vaunted class ranking. Alot of people are speculating that Mallett will follow Loeffler... and regardless of who the OC is... it is looking alot more like Loeffler will be on the staff.

Posted by tngeoff on January 8, 2008 at 10:09 a.m. (Suggest removal)

iowavol,

Thanks for the barb. By the way, here is part of a quote for you to remember when you speak about what others post.

From your quote on the Tickets available for Vanderbilt game column:

"Lastly, over the last 10 years, golf has exploded. Unfortunately, if you are to be competitive in golf, you need to play a few times a week. In these parts, most folks won't give up church for golf, but they do give up going to the ball game so they can play a round in the morning and catch the game on tv in the afternoon. I know that's been my excuse and same is true with the folks I play. No, I would ask Hamilton what he is doing to market the Vols - have been asking him for years. Nothing really, he's letting all the responsibility fall to the head coach."

Alrighty then.

Posted by tngeoff on January 8, 2008 at 10:12 a.m. (Suggest removal)

DennisVols,

Thanks Bro'.

Posted by volntx on January 8, 2008 at 10:12 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Austin is a great city, have been here for 10 years and there is plenty of fun things to do.
And living here we have to hear about Texas,but when Mack wants a coordinator he goes and hires one of the best ones on the spot. Is Texas a better job? Or is Mack just more confident?

Posted by pdparker14 on January 8, 2008 at 10:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)

So do you think all of the "big namers" have taken their name out of the running because they don't want to come aboard a sinking ship? I was afraid of this happening. Especially with all the talk around town of Fulmer possibly being gone, why would anyone leave their current job for such an unstable program with a somewhat unclear future? Used to, coaches would have been jumping through hoops to be part of this program, now we are having to look at coaches from places like Richomd. We can't even get anybody from a big school. At this point I don't understand why we don't go to Trooper Taylor at this point.

Posted by grvol on January 8, 2008 at 10:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)

He or DeBord would be good. Is DeBord gonna interview?

Posted by sjt18 on January 8, 2008 at 10:17 a.m. (Suggest removal)

volntx, I suspect that Muschamp sees that Tex pretty much gets whoever they want in the state and thinks it will give him the shortest route to a HC job... and that is definitely his goal.

Posted by GerryOP on January 8, 2008 at 10:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Along came a spider and sat down beside her:

http://www.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/s...

Posted by RockyTopRK on January 8, 2008 at 10:23 a.m. (Suggest removal)

sjt18: Nice suggestions there. I hope Coach F reads the boards here. Good job!

Posted by rbhobbs73 on January 8, 2008 at 10:30 a.m. (Suggest removal)

some of you people never cease to amaze me!

Some of you will NEVER be happy with anything Fulmer does!

Look, I am not a "stick with Phil no matter what loyalist" nor am I a "Fulmer hater"...but some of you are so irrational in your blinding hatred for the man that you contradict yourself at every turn.

First you want Fulmer to go "outside the family" and conduct a "nationwide" search. Then, when he doesn't hire someone in 3 days...you all scream that he is taking too long, can't find anyone to take the job, we are losing recruits (even when it is a dead period...hard to figure how we are losing them there). Fulmer has interviewed someone from San Francisco, Clemson, Richmond, Michigan, etc... that is pretty nationwide or do you some of you need a geography lesson?

Then you all scream for George Quarles, a high school coach and Gus Malzahn (a coach 2 years removed from HS coaching) saying that we need someone young and energetic...so he interviews a guy who is young, energetic, with a proven decade plus long track record at the COLLEGE level and you say he isn't experienced enough, can't recruit in the SEC, bla bla bla....but you AUTOMATICALLY THINK A HIGH SCHOOL COACH FROM EAST TENNESSEE CAN RECRUIT AND COACH IN THE SEC!

Have you all listened to your delusional rants?

Then someone else says that we don't want any coaches from Michigan because they have been predictable and bad for years on offense. Do some of you even WATCH football? Michigan just put 41 up on Florida and could have been 50 if Hart doesn't fumble twice at the goal line. They lost 42-39 at Ohio State in 2006...hardly the offense's fault. They scored over 30 on USC but lost the Rose Bowl. They lost 38-37 to Texas in 2004 Rose Bowl. My point is that offense was NOT the problem at Michigan.

Look, all Vol fans are fans, even the negative ones. And there are times when negativity is warranted and needed. I have criticized many times, but most of what is on this board is drivel. For those of you who post constructive, well thought out post (on either side of the issue) then I thank you for the discussion on something we all love..UT Football. The rest of you need to buy a clue.

There is my rant and for those of you who say it is too long...I suggest you take your ADD medication, or take one of your 10 naps of the day so you can read it.

GO VOLS!!!!!

Posted by vscebail on January 8, 2008 at 10:31 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Don't forget guys, nobody had ever heard of Jim Tressell (I-AA) Bfore he took over at Ohio State. The Buckeyes may have been humbled against LSU, but they have become a regular appearance in BCS bowl games. Maybe Fulmer has found a hidden gem. GO VOLS!!!

Posted by wkb12 on January 8, 2008 at 10:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Hell, why not just go back and get Trooper?

Posted by tngeoff on January 8, 2008 at 10:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)

It's coming.

http://www.knoxnews.com/kns/govols/ar...

Here's Fulmers quote from this story when he brought Jim Bob on as Graduate Assistant, "Jim Bob is very intelligent, an outstanding communicator and has a very creative mind," Fulmer said. "He'll be an excellent coach if he decides to stay with it."

"Cooter will assist offensive coordinator David Cutcliffe in coaching the quarterbacks and work on editing game film and self-scouting."

All this other stuff is diversionary.

Posted by GerryOP on January 8, 2008 at 10:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Yup, Jim Bob knows all of the plays ... and ... and everything!

It is finished?

http://www.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/s...

Posted by tngeoff on January 8, 2008 at 10:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)

2007 Vanderbilt vs Richmond:

Vanderbilt W 41-17

Posted by tngeoff on January 8, 2008 at 10:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)

GerryOP,

Good find. Good link. Oh boy.

2007 - Vandy 41, Richmond 17.

2006 - North Carolina State 23, Richmond 10

2005 - Kansas 36, Richmond 8

2005 - LSU 24, Richmond 0

Posted by auttat on January 8, 2008 at 10:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Nice post rbhobbs73, but nobody will listen. The world will end if UT football does not win 20 games next year.

Nice to see that the GA President wants a playoff now. Quoting him from an ESPN article "The Bowl Championship Series has become a beauty contest largely stage-managed by the networks." Well, DUUUUHHH!! Most have been saying the same thing since it was created. Most were calling for a playoff LONG before the BCS was ever thought about. Glad this a-hole speaks up when it finally hits home.

Posted by jobrando on January 8, 2008 at 10:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Some news agencies reporting Richmond's Clawson will be announced today as the MAN

Posted by tngeoff on January 8, 2008 at 10:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Those 2005 and 2006 scores were Appy State. Not Richmond. Richmond was 6 - 5 in 2006. Richmond was 9 - 4 in 2005. And why was I not excited?

Posted by tngeoff on January 8, 2008 at 10:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)

In case you missed it. Appy State is a MUCH better program than Richmond and other than the Michigan win...it also is irreleveant to Division I schools. We are Division I I aren't we? Let's get a coach that is either a Legend at a lower division or stay in our league. Yes...sometimes long shots work. MORE DON'T.

Posted by GerryOP on January 8, 2008 at 10:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Trainable ....

Posted by auttat on January 8, 2008 at 10:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)

What news agencies would that be jobrando? We all now this site will not report it first, so where do we need to be looking?

Posted by TNPilgrim on January 8, 2008 at 10:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)

This guy is probably the best Fulmer can do - if he'll agree to take the job. I don't think it's a fair comparison to look at the scores between Richmond and SEC type schools because they don't have the same caliber players. Bottom line is, he'd be a lot better than Adkins.

Posted by GerryOP on January 8, 2008 at 11 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Geoff: We have warned you about this -- stop logicating. It will only lead you to rational conclusions...

Posted by nafslov on January 8, 2008 at 11:01 a.m. (Suggest removal)

That is Clawson isn't it ? God help help us if there's ever another Clausen on this campus ! Thanks Notre Dame ! Where is the REAL coach (Quarles) in the hunt ?

Posted by tngeoff on January 8, 2008 at 11:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)

GerryOP,

Thank you for the wake-up call! My bad!

Posted by vol_in_lsu_land on January 8, 2008 at 11:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)

AMEN RB Hobbs AMEN!!!!

Sometimes I check in to read the musings on this board just for the laughs. Many of the posters here remind me of the elderly women who cook meals for church functions in every community. Always clucking like hens and gossiping about this or that.

Judging from what I have read, this guy Clawson is EXACTLY what you people have been screaming for...an outside the "family" guy with fresh, young offensive ideas. No, nobody ever heard of the dude until now (at least on THE FAN level), but It appears he is known in respected choaching circles. Fulmer seems to be "taking chances" just like you people want.

Or would you rather he just call the plays himself?

Posted by jobrando on January 8, 2008 at 11:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)

auttat----go to google then news and type in coach clawson...

Posted by juicetke on January 8, 2008 at 11:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Here is a 2006 highlight video of Richmond. Granted it is a highlight video but it looks likea good offense. The quarterback is on the move a lot. Scroll down to the recruiting section on the right and click on the 2006 highlight video. It doesn't start showing full plays until around 3min 45 sec. So you may want to fast forward.

http://richmondspiders.cstv.com/sport...

Posted by jimr07 on January 8, 2008 at 11:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I don't think Fulmer could hire Bill Bellichick and satisfy some of you. First, it is the responsibility of the head coach to make sure it is the play HE wants run. That is why he is called the Head Coach.

Posted by elchocko on January 8, 2008 at 11:25 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Mike, are you reading this????

Posted by bigbluevol on January 8, 2008 at 11:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)

tngeoff, you are all over the place buddy. Some of your posts are positive about the future and excited about the possibilities. The others are negative and anti-Fulmer. As for your argument against Clawson, as someone pointed out, I'm sure that the caliber of players had nothing to do with those scores. This guy has been in college coaching. He has been lauded as a hot coach by many of the beloved pundits. He's coached NFL players. He knows how to win. If he is the choice, give him a chance before you bury him.

Posted by pdparker14 on January 8, 2008 at 11:35 a.m. (Suggest removal)

(From Wire Reports)
Philip Fulmer, unable to convince a big time offensive coordinator or coach to come aboard with Tennessee, announced today that a replacement has been hired to fill the void left by David Cutcliff.

Don Wiggins, 2nd year volunteer co-head coach for the Hederville Racecars, a South Carolina Pee Wee team from Hederville, SC was hired today by Tennessee after a last ditch effort to hire Richmonds coach Clawson fell short.

Clawson was quoted as saying, "I am interested in furthering my college coaching career, not punching it full of holes. The Tennessee job will be good for someone on their way down, but just not for me. The program is in dissaray right now and the future is obviously clouded in Knoxville for Coach Fulmer and the staff.

Don Wiggins, who volunteered to coach the Hederville Racecars 2 years ago stated that he was speechless when contacted by coach Fulmer. This will be his first paying football job. As a volunteer coach, the only pay he receives for coaching the peewee team is free refills at the concession stand. Wiggins is expected to resign from his current "real" job today as a produce clerk for the local Piggly Wiggly grocery chain.

Wiggins is expected to get a nice pay raise for the offensive coordinator position compared to his meager 8.95/hour salary he was getting paid at the grocery store. When asked what he would do with his new "fortune," Wiggins was quoted as saying "I'm going to send enough money back to Hederville for the Racecars to have a nice end of the season Pizza Party and trophy presentation. I will not forget where I came from."

Wiggins feels like the PeeWee league in Hederville has prepared him for the big time stage he will now be coaching on. "There were times when we had as much as 20, maybe 30 people at a game, so I'm used to coaching in front of crowds." Wiggins also feels he is a great example. "At the Piggly Wiggley, I was awarded with Produce Clerk of the month 3 months in a row and was considered by the store to be a great example and mentor to the younget kids at the store."

Wiggins is expected to be on campus this Friday and will be joined by his wife Jamie as soon as the lease on their apartment in Hederville is up. He is not expected to be able to make it back to Hederville for the Pizza Party.

In 2 seasons with the Racecars, Wiggins compiled a 12-3-2 record, the second best record in Hederville PeeWee football in the last 10 years.

Posted by TommyJack on January 8, 2008 at 11:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)

RoyHobbs73: Sorry, I was napping. It WAS too long.

Posted by vol_in_lsu_land on January 8, 2008 at 11:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Y'all realize that Tennessee finished 12 in both polls and leap frogged Florida, right?

No, not a top 10 finish but about as close as it gets. Third highest ranking of all SEC schools, a win over the 2ND ranked team (Georgia) and a competitive showing against the #1 team at the championship game.

Where do you think we'll be ranked preseason next year? I gaurantee we'll be looked at as a top ten preseason team. everyone sees the talent we're returning and the improvements made as the season progressed. Everyone sees the bowl win and the good game we gave the National Champion LSU team.

Fulmer is going to have a new OC at UT and if he recruits coaches as well as players, I think Tennessee football will again be on the national stage next year.

Isn't this what we all want?

Posted by pdhuff on January 8, 2008 at 11:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Tngeoff, do you sense any trickeration afoot?

Hope ol' pdparker14 has kevlar drawers to protect his privates. He's probably got 14 arrows sticking out of hs back now. All are welcome.

Posted by jimr07 on January 8, 2008 at 11:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)

tngeoff--I love it when people make fools of themselves which you just did by posting the Richmond scores. You cannot expect a team like Richmond to compete with the teams you mentioned. Like the wise man said, it is better to keep your mouth shut and look like a fool than open it and remove all doubt.

Posted by vol_in_lsu_land on January 8, 2008 at 11:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)

pdparker LMAO.

Hey, that was uncalled for, but I have to admit it was funny as heck.

Posted by pdparker14 on January 8, 2008 at 11:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)

(From Wire Reports)
Philip Fulmer, unable to convince a big time offensive coordinator or coach to come aboard with Tennessee, announced today that a replacement has been hired to fill the void left by David Cutcliff.

Don Wiggins, 2nd year volunteer co-head coach for the Hederville Racecars, a South Carolina Pee Wee team from Hederville, SC was hired today by Tennessee after a last ditch effort to hire Richmonds coach Clawson fell short.

Clawson was quoted as saying, "I am interested in furthering my college coaching career, not punching it full of holes. The Tennessee job will be good for someone on their way down, but just not for me. The program is in dissaray right now and the future is obviously clouded in Knoxville for Coach Fulmer and the staff.

Don Wiggins, who volunteered to coach the Hederville Racecars 2 years ago stated that he was speechless when contacted by coach Fulmer. This will be his first paying football job. As a volunteer coach, the only pay he receives for coaching the peewee team is free refills at the concession stand. Wiggins is expected to resign from his current "real" job today as a produce clerk for the local Piggly Wiggly grocery chain.

Wiggins is expected to get a nice pay raise for the offensive coordinator position compared to his meager 8.95/hour salary he was getting paid at the grocery store. When asked what he would do with his new "fortune," Wiggins was quoted as saying "I'm going to send enough money back to Hederville for the Racecars to have a nice end of the season Pizza Party and trophy presentation. I will not forget where I came from."

Wiggins feels like the PeeWee league in Hederville has prepared him for the big time stage he will now be coaching on. "There were times when we had as much as 20, maybe 30 people at a game, so I'm used to coaching in front of crowds." Wiggins also feels he is a great example. "At the Piggly Wiggley, I was awarded with Produce Clerk of the month 3 months in a row and was considered by the store to be a great example and mentor to the younget kids at the store."

Wiggins is expected to be on campus this Friday and will be joined by his wife Jamie as soon as the lease on their apartment in Hederville is up. He is not expected to be able to make it back to Hederville for the Pizza Party.

In 2 seasons with the Racecars, Wiggins compiled a 12-3-2 record, the second best record in Hederville PeeWee football in the last 10 years.

Posted by pdparker14 on January 8, 2008 at 11:45 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Sorry, don't know why my last comment got posted twice.

Posted by bigbluevol on January 8, 2008 at 11:49 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Probably because it was so hilarious. No, wait, that's definitely not why.

Posted by volntx on January 8, 2008 at 11:49 a.m. (Suggest removal)

pdparker14, I just laughed my -$$ off, funniest thing I have read on here!

Posted by jsc1973 on January 8, 2008 at 11:57 a.m. (Suggest removal)

For those out there pumping for Jerry Moore, the guy is 67 years old and has turned down opportunities for 1-A head coaching jobs. He actually was a head coach in 1-A at Texas Tech in the 1980s. They ran him out of town because he was the only coach in the old SWC who wouldn't cheat.

Clawson wouldn't be a 'sexy' choice, but he looks like he's a pretty good coach. What I wanted to see more than anything was new blood and a different approach. This business of trying to only hire people with ties to the existing program was reminding me of the mess that Alabama got itself into with people like DuBose and Shula. Fulmer is obviously serious about breaking that mold.

Posted by ssukonic on January 8, 2008 at 12:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)

OK.............so was there any comment from Doug Mathews today? His comments don't seem to jive with what we know to be true as far as interviews for Clawson, etc. Maybe with Mathews saying we're in for a surprise and Joe Gibbs retiring from the Redskins today, we put two and two together and Gibbs will be our OC! :-)

Posted by madisonvillevol on January 8, 2008 at 12:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)

pd parker 14 for oc!

Posted by vol_in_lsu_land on January 8, 2008 at 12:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Yeah jsc1973, but on the other hand going outside the Tennessee Vol "family" requires putting faith in a new coach developing a sense of loyalty to a program. That's becoming more rare in college football these days. I certainly don't want to see a new OC every three years.

What I'd much rather see is this OC be the "heir apparent" to the HC job. I'd like to see a guy picked who has potential. Of course it will take a couple of years calling plays before we know anything about Clawson or whoever gets the job, but in all honesty he looks very promising.

Posted by pdhuff on January 8, 2008 at 12:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

vol in lsu land - I'd take Clawson just to end this madness. Some body, anybody. Little Miss Muffet if she'd get us back in the top ten and promise to at least compete (not win every time) with Bamer and the Gators every outing.

Does Slippery Rock have a good OC?

Posted by tngeoff on January 8, 2008 at 12:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

bigbluevol,

You're right. I do have optimism, but guarded. This hire is and was so critical. All bashing aside, there can't be one serious person who thinks this isn't a major fallback position based on better ones falling through. That's what frustrates me today. Best chances lost, settling for what's left. It COULD end up being great. But IT COULD end up being terrible. Thanks for the civil response though. Keep the Faith.

Posted by madisonvillevol on January 8, 2008 at 12:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)

how about coach billy joe tombob parker instead of pd parker? any relation there pd? anybody that could coach the fightin' possums should get the job

Posted by FWBVol on January 8, 2008 at 12:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)

After reading these posts I've come up with the perfect prototype for our next O-coordinator.

He must be 34-36 years old, and have coached for 28 years. He has to be a UT grad that has no Vol ties. He must be able to stand up to Phillip Fulmer, while at the same time being a YES man. But the most important thing is he must be somebody all of us have heard about and would give a perfect 10 rating.

Please, feel free to add anything I might have left out of the qualifications.

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

jimr07,

I love it when self annointed pompous arses blast everybody else while ass-uming they have it all figured out. Like a little child telling everybody else how stupid they are while you imagine yourself high on a mountain somewhere capable of judging everything and everyone. You go guy! Here is a sample of one of your other "Know it all - dis the other guy" posts:

"Tommy Jack. I know that you are an expert, but Terry Donahue, Craig James and Lou Holtz to name a few seem to think that the spread is a combination of systems INCLUDING THE SINGLE WING. You probably need to get up to speeed. I do admire your negative comments, though. You said one time that you were just telling the truth. Ha. The truth in your eyes. I bet the people you work with are always glad when 5 o'clock comes so they don't have to put up with you anhy more that day."

Posted by pdhuff on January 8, 2008 at 12:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)

madisonvillevol - good post- I think "fightin' possums" has some potential. My lab has "killed" the same old possum 4 or 5 times. I get the same 5 gallon bucket and carry him back to the hill where he lives. He comes back usually 2-3 weeks later. Love of thrown out extra biscuits in the edge of the woods overcomes any fear. Thought about naming him Phil. He stays the course.

Posted by bigbluevol on January 8, 2008 at 12:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

tngeoff, Fulmer is just talking to people and interviewing. Who's to say that he wasn't eyeing this guy all along? Only Phil knows for sure. It's his butt on the line, so I think he will make the right and best hire. I'd rather him take his time and get it right than do it fast and get it wrong. Length isn't the issue. Best fit for the job is the issue. I also wanted to point out that in 2006, Richmond beat Duke 13-0. Food for thought.

Posted by bigfan502 on January 8, 2008 at 12:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)

THE MOST IMPORTANT THING FOR A NEW OC IS DOES HE KNOW WHERE THE TOWNS OF DOTHAN, FROSTPROOF, SLIDELLE, VALDOSTA, LAKELAND, AND OTHER SUCH TOWNS ARE LOCATED...WOULD HE FEEL COMFORTABLE GOING UINTO THE HOMES OF HIGH SCHOOL PROSPECTS. DOES HE MAKE A GOOD IMPRESSION...IS HE COMFORTABLE LIVING IN KNOXVILLE...How ABOUT HIS FAMILY? IS HE KINDA ONE OF US? DOES HE HAVE GOOD JUDGEMENT FOR TALENT. IS HE ABLE TO HAVE FRIENDLY GABFESTS WITH VOLS' HEAD COACH AND STAFF? REMEMBER, RECRUITING TOP PLAYERS IS THE KEY...OUTSTANDING PLAYERS MAKE COACHES LOOK GOOD AND SUCCESFUL...THIS IS KEY TO ROAD TO HC.

Posted by TommyJack on January 8, 2008 at 12:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Geoff: Good points. I'll stipulate that I never played at UT, nor coached. But anyone that can explain to me how the Single Wing (4 backs) with yes, 4 backs, could be called a form of the spread, is beyond me.
Ole JimR needs some lovin, I guess. Selah

Posted by tnbanker_govols on January 8, 2008 at 12:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Latest news from VolQuest (Brent Hubbs site)......... The rumor is that a few of the Michigan coaches are not happy with Rodriguez. I believe that Rodriguez different style of play is not setting w