Posted by KnoxVol_in_TX on January 9, 2008 at 10:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Great game. No doubt that Ole Miss is a strong team. Glad to see those Vols to stick out and pull out the victory.

GO BIG ORANGE!

Posted by Kwitcherbellyachin on January 9, 2008 at 10:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Two observations: 1) Ole Miss is for real, and 2) WTH does it take for us to get a call underneath?

Posted by VolFan32 on January 9, 2008 at 10:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Great game. Ole Miss is going to be a force to be reckoned with when March hits. Most poorly officiated game I have seen in a college game. I have seen High School games around here better officiated.

Posted by Volalumnus on January 9, 2008 at 10:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Do you think if a TN players arms or head were knocked off they would do more than ask that the floor to be cleaned up or would they think of calling a foul?
I can't blame the other teams and Ole Miss looked good but if the refs don't want things to get out of control they better start calling things both ways and not tic tacs one way and allowing the other team to blow ankles in efforts to knock down our players and not even call anything.

Posted by Kwitcherbellyachin on January 9, 2008 at 10:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

And... can someone please tell Tom Hammond that it's JAJUAN and not JAMAR Smith.

Posted by asleep on January 9, 2008 at 10:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Kennedy is a great coach, Ole Miss is going to get better and better. Still, very proud of the Vols for winning a tough SEC game as a home favorite. No letdown and no quit. Just think how good we will be when Lofton finally gets untracked. Wow. Go vols

Posted by dkerr on January 9, 2008 at 10:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)

What a bunch of scrappy players, nice work team. Hey, Coach, let's work on staying off that coaches line. What do ya say there, bub?

Posted by 1974Vol on January 9, 2008 at 10:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Forget the ref's, all we need is to not let MS own the O boards and the games not even close. Chism get a board!

Posted by chrisw2967 on January 9, 2008 at 11 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The only real problem I see Tn having is Chism , he has no business in 3 point range and if I were Pearl, every time he wandered out there he would be sitting on the bench until he learned.We need him on the boards not out there thinking he is a guard.
But Ole Miss is for real and as far as the refs go they just plain and simple sucked.We were getting killed.Go Vols

Posted by Kwitcherbellyachin on January 9, 2008 at 11:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm not excusing the poor defensive rebounding, but there were some absolutely terrible calls that, had they been called correctly, would have kept the Rebels' post players honest.

Posted by VolBall on January 9, 2008 at 11:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Few teams can match our intensity for 40 mins. Credit Ole Miss with tremedous heart and tenacity.

Lack of strength inside is glaring for UT. Williams really looks slow and unsure of himself since his great performance against Western Ky. Chism is way too soft. Hope Crews can get back soon.

Posted by Volalumnus on January 9, 2008 at 11:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I am not as worried about Chism shooting the three as others, but if he is going to allowed to do so, then why not have Williams and Chism in at the same time and let Chism work in and out.
I know he hasn't been hiting the three but he has before he must be in the same slump Lofton is.

Posted by mparker on January 9, 2008 at 11:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)

that kid warren is just a sutd player. He wore out, but he's super.

the board play was out of hand. I've seen NBA games with less contact.

I got the impression the refs where letting Ole Miss 'play their game'.

Wayne has got to dunk more inside and forget the layup in those games.

Chris got hammered on this drives....

Still, a good comeback from some pretty bad shot selection.

Posted by RockyTopRooks on January 9, 2008 at 11:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Can someone tell Chism he doesnt play SG. We have other players that can shoot threes. Why dont you try and rebound.

Posted by Volalumnus on January 9, 2008 at 11:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I think Chism and the soft layup are his biggest problem.

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

Vols up to #3 in the RPI. After we take care of SC, Vandy and OSU look for us to be #1.

Posted by GrandCanyonVol on January 9, 2008 at 11:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I watched the game on the computer and was screaming at the end. Woke my wife up who was sleeping on the couch. I can go to bed now, a happy man. How in the world did we win that game. Miss is good under the boards, very good.

Posted by DenmarkVol_aka_Mbumburu on January 9, 2008 at 11:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)

YES, WAYNE CHISM -- you got eight boards tonight! Terrific improvement...make your personal goal 10 boards per game and we have a chance to survive.

BUT you took four 3s. I echo what everyone has posted about that thus far...PLEASE stay near the paint and don't try anything over 15 feet. We need you to be a horse inside.

Posted by TurboFan on January 9, 2008 at 11:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The offensive set for Chism along the perimeter is to pull their bigs out away from the basket to clear the way for drives or create mismatches, if they don't Chism is left open. Works if he hits the shot. Couldn't believe my eye seeing Ramar posting up.

Posted by Hunter on January 9, 2008 at 11:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)

We withstood a 7 minute scoring drought and stil got the "W" with tremendous defensive intensity in the last 2 minutes. Seemed like the press was less effective than usual, but Ole Miss looks legit.....

I have finally begun to question Lofton ever returning to form in a Vol uniform. Is he the kind of player that needs to be desperately needed before he really turns it on? I still want the ball in #5's hands with the game on the line. Come on Chris - make us believe again!

Posted by VolBall on January 9, 2008 at 11:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)

JuJuan Smith has the heart of a champion. His senior leadership was critical tonight. And how about Tyler Smith's play? Tyler plays under control, lets the game come to him, shares the ball and has great basketball savvy. Ramar has great physical strength that is obviously needed in SEC play. His decisions are improving and he was 3 of 4 from the line tonight.

Posted by kceatherly on January 9, 2008 at 11:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Great game to watch and a great win. Man, Ole Miss looked solid. I wish we wouldn't take plays off defensively though. That and not being able to keep people off the offfensive boards may come back to haunt us.

Posted by mdvol on January 9, 2008 at 11:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Great game! Don't want to face Ole Miss in the SEC Tourney.

Posted by jim_bell on January 9, 2008 at 11:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)

VolCR, Why don't you ask Bruce Pearl who is or tell him who you think he. I think he would change your mind. I really feel sorry for you and your irreverence for your Creator.

Posted by tennrich1 on January 9, 2008 at 11:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Great Win...Chism MUST go to the low post and to the sides to pull out the big men...he's bringing them out front and clogging up our rotations and then he's launching three's..not our best choice for him...Ole Miss impressed me...

Posted by yabadabadoo1026 on January 9, 2008 at 11:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)

jim_bell, lighten up

Posted by Hacksaw57 on January 9, 2008 at 11:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)

A QUALITY WIN against a quality opponent.
Down the stretch, we have GOT to start putting teams away by getting on the boards and taking better percentage shots. I found myself saying "get the ball in Lofton's" hands" torwards the end for some reason. We didn't look real sharp at times but, considering we were playing an undefeated GOOD basketball team, it was a Great Win. Way To Go Vols!
Bring On Vandy! Let's Bust Their Bubble To!

Posted by Phowell23 on January 10, 2008 at 12:01 a.m. (Suggest removal)

No Chism please don't shoot another 3-pointer and focus on getting rebounds. Loften, please come back from vacation. Great finish...Go Vols!

Posted by cjraney on January 10, 2008 at 12:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Was anyone at the game? On TV the crowd seemed dead until we tied it up with 2 min left. The Ole Miss freshman had perfect silence to shoot many of his freethrows.

We really need some work on the first rule of defense: Stop the man with the ball from driving the lane.

Great win though. Very happy for Tyler Smith.

Posted by VOLinGA on January 10, 2008 at 12:13 a.m. (Suggest removal)

The good is Ole Miss is for real and it was a great win. A win is a win in the SEC. But...
Lofton has lost his aggressiveness / confidence. How many times did he defer to someone else? Not a bad quality at times, but we need Chris to come back with his Swagger and chip on the shoulder. J.Smith... love this guy. He's a competitor and the team's heart. T.Smith...where would we be without this guy? He's doing it all. R.Smith is showing glimpses of what we expect, keep it coming. Chism...please finish at the rim. Work on the hops and punch that thing home. And rebounding...will someone please go up with two strong hands and snag the ball instead of going up with one hand and pushing off with the other...

Posted by Kwitcherbellyachin on January 10, 2008 at 12:13 a.m. (Suggest removal)

The problem with Lofton now is that he doesn't take as many shots as he used to take. Tonight is a good example. He was fourth in shots attempted on the team. He hit 40% from the arc, but he only took 5 shots. The three shots inside the arc that he took, he was definitely fouled on two of them.

The point is that his value to the team is not in knocking down 10-12 shots per game, as it was in the past. His value is the THREAT of knocking down those shots. Just his presence on the court opens up space for the other four guys.

As for the comments on Chism, I agree. I find myself saying "No!" every time he hoists up a 3-ball. On the flip side, I also believe that his forte is not with his back to the basket. It is also evident that one of his roles on offense is to come out to set a high screen to open up the cutter or the wing for a shot. Also, there is actually value in having a big man that can shoot from outside because the defender has to come out and guard him. Still, as someone said earlier, I'd be happy if he never shot another three ever again.

Posted by BasketballVol on January 10, 2008 at 12:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Good quality win against a solid Ole Miss team. I know Ole Miss is a great rebounding team this year, but it seems that we were simply out of position too often. We need to box out better and clean those boards. Congrats on the win - go Vols! Tyler Smith is the man!

Posted by ge446 on January 10, 2008 at 12:19 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Ole Miss is very good. They have the book-end big guys inside that go about 6'8-9" and about 260-275 lbs. They put their bodies on you and move you . They crash the the boards and knock you out of the way, or they climb your back and get the rebound that way. Lofton was fouled on the first possession as he took the ball to the basket. He was actually fouled as he drove to the basket and after he shot the ball. I knew then that this officiating crew was not going to call many fouls on the visiting team. This is how you take the home court advantage away. But even with this , if we can defend the penetration we can continue to increase our lead. Maybe our biggest defensive weakness is our ability to prevent the quick guards from easily getting to the basket. The OM player who turned his ankle knocked our offensive player down with that 260 lb body, NO CALL...Tyler has a wonderful block later , near the basket, where there is no body contact and he hits only the ball and he gets called for a foul. Inconsistent, inconsistent, inconsistent. The time out to find out where to put the ball in play was terrible. It is ironic that Valentine ( the official who did not know where to place the ball in play) is the same official that gave Vanderbilt the ball at mid coutr last year instead of at the foul line extended after we took our last free foul in the lose to Vandy. They never even considered getting that spot correct. Inconsistency, inconsistency, inconsistency. I know how difficult it is to officiate, and no one will ever have a perfect game, but while we expect so much from these kids, youngsters or young men, we should expect a better officiated game from these adults who make a great deal of money doing this. They will pocket $2,000 to $2,500 each from the game. It will be a better game when some of the finess is returned to the game and brut force is punished with called fouls.
Bruce has got to quit getting technical fouls. Two points really matter in most SEC games. What in the world was his son doing in the game for a brief time in the second half? What has happened to Josh Tabb and the freshman recruit that is not seeing any time?

Posted by Sauderman on January 10, 2008 at 12:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)

This was a great matchup. The only better one I could imagine is when Ole Miss plays host to Ole Miss on Saturday.

Posted by Kwitcherbellyachin on January 10, 2008 at 12:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)

In other hoops-related news, CJ Watson had 11 points and 4 assists for Golden State tonight. Not a bad debut.

Posted by TommyJack on January 10, 2008 at 12:40 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Looks like Chism will become the Arian Foster whipping post of round ball. You tunnel-vision guys kill me.

Posted by budrhon on January 10, 2008 at 12:52 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Chism doesn't give an intimidating presence down low. Everyone complains about him taking the 3, but the eyes should stare at Pearl for allowing it. The problem with him taking that shot tonight is that he doesn't react to the fact he has to get back down court. His post defense against the Rebs Bigs was very weak, but then maybe he's fighting an injury or health condition. Hats off to Ole Miss they are good and the Vols squeaked one out tonight.

Posted by rootin4volz on January 10, 2008 at 12:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Whew!

Posted by FWBVol on January 10, 2008 at 1:02 a.m. (Suggest removal)

jwraymond1, Pearl said the crowd was the difference in the game. I'll take his word over your long-distance opinion.

jim_bell, you beat me to the statement. Pearl is a great basketball coach, but he was born, and will die. God was and always will be.

Posted by 2000man on January 10, 2008 at 1:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I think I'm going to have to drink heavily after that one tonight.

Posted by volchamp on January 10, 2008 at 1:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)

ill drink a beer after the game. Lofton had a couple good shots. Refs sucked tonight from what I could see. Just dont want people to get down on him for decreased production. We have more weapons this year than last and because of that he is not going to take as many shots.
Great win though, keep it rolling vols!

Posted by utchris2003 on January 10, 2008 at 3:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)

www.firebertbertlkamp.com

Posted by madisonvillevol on January 10, 2008 at 6:49 a.m. (Suggest removal)

lofton doesn't have to score 30 every night. this team is deep. if we don't find someone to get in there scrap under the basket it will bite us in the the butt one of these nights. rebounding is about attitude and no one on this team seems to have it. chism is 6'9", but doesn't seem to like to mix it up much. childress will bang and he has some attitude and a mean streak in him. and no, pearl is no god, let's keep it in perspective boys!

Posted by natcross24 on January 10, 2008 at 6:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)

ge446, i am with you. not sure what has happeened to Tabb. i personnally think he needs to get some playing time. this was a great win tonight, GREAT win, but the team often looks ragged at times. we cant rebound and it seems we gamble too much on defense. when Tabb was playing he seemed to bring a a calming effect and did not require alot offensively. i am not sure what has happened there. we have 2 weak points being half court defense and rebounding, and those are his two strong points. i am not sure how he would fit in the rotation but i sure would like to see him back in there. difficult to see other teams play volleyball with rebounds. we need all the help we can get in that category.

Posted by pdhuff on January 10, 2008 at 7:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)

TDTN - 6:09 agreed, they let them play. Great win, but Ole Mess with 20 offensive rebounds! Whew. We need a boar hog under the goal.

Pearl is a gem. Can't wait till Vandy and UK outings. Vandy is tuff with their Aussie.

Posted by JHite7 on January 10, 2008 at 7:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Most poorly officiated game. These idiots could not do well in a TSSAA game...let alone SEC competition. Teddy Valentine was the absolute worse. He was also the one I do recall that when Bobby Knight went on the floor went to check on an injured player, T'ed him up. I really hope their superiors will get wind of this tape. This game got out of hand real quick. Numerous over the back calls, and stoppages so Valentine could get some face time on camera. If I were Pearl, this tape would be sent to the league office, and also the NCAA. Helen Keller and Stevie Wonder could have called a better game.

But overall, great win. Tyler Smith is the real deal...and Wayne...get in the post where you belong and quit being so soft. You look like a rag doll in the paint.

Posted by 55Vol on January 10, 2008 at 7:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Good win Vols. not great but good. Our defense against Polynice looked like our football team against Florida. We acted like we didn't want to try and stop that guy. He played well but we may have started his campaign for MVP of the SEC. Terrible defense against him.
This young group of talented players needs to listen to coaching and start really gelling. This is January, not November, and it will soon be March. Wake up guys, get a killer instinct when you have 10 point leads with 10 to go.... go for the knock out baskets and do not let the UM's and Xaviers of the world back into the game.

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

What is wrong with Lofton there days?? His percentages are dropping every game.

Posted by feathersax on January 10, 2008 at 8:26 a.m. (Suggest removal)

WHAT A GAME! Two super teams that could well meet again in the tournament. Is Ted Valentine the WORST official in since the peach basket was nailed up? Bob Knight told us that years ago when he was at IU. Valentine's Day is coming up; hope he gets terminated.

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

Hunter, I think your comment about Chris Lofton not "turning it on" is way off base. He's doing lots of little things that go un-noticed by some...assists, defense, passing, etc. He's having a tough time scoring wise, no doubt. But it's not because of a lack of effort. Sometimes, he's too unselfish. He passed up a three last night as a defender was coming at him (but wasn't there yet) to pass to an unguarded teammate in the right corner. I'm not sure if it was J. Smith or T. Smith but whoever it was burried it! C. Lofton's problems aren't due to lack of effort.

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

jwraymond1 we don't agree much but I agree about the crowd.
The students are always rowdy but the old farts Good Lord go play chess in a park on a week day morning!!! Same thing at Neyland Stadium. The old farts think that to be loud is to be rude to the opponents...oh please!

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

If Bert Bertelkamp says "MONEY!" one more time... Arrrgh! I appreciate your enthusiasm, Bert, and I know that you, as a former player, can't help but be really excited to see UT men's b-ball actively competitive with football and the Lady Vols again in terms of play and fandom. And I appreciate your occasional insight into the game. But sheesh! Your on-air antics actually make Bob Kessling sound like a competent play-by-play man. Scary.

Posted by gravegr on January 10, 2008 at 8:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)

ole miss is a very good team and will win a lot of games. go vols we are proud of you.

Posted by kevinlimbo on January 10, 2008 at 9:41 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Lay off Bertlekamp, he's an unabashed homer and I giggle every time he yells money(even if the guy has missed his last five shots). My personal favorite is, "he's a warrior Bob!"

Heckuva game for Tyler Smith. He's been clutch down the stretch in the last three games. It's also nice to hear Pulaski,TN mentioned on television without it being the introductory moments of a Klan expose'.

Posted by jcvet on January 10, 2008 at 9:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Great win. Close hard fought games like this one against good teams are good for this young team, especially when they pull it out. Will pay off big in March.

Posted by fundamentals83 on January 10, 2008 at 9:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Chism missed a 2 footer by 4 feet. Now that's talent.

Posted by govols57 on January 10, 2008 at 9:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Chism!! STOP SHOOTING 3'S!!!!! as much as you like to think you are, you are not a guard. Get under the boards and get some rebounds, finish to the hole. Ole Miss made you look like you don't even belong in this league!

Does anyone know what the deal is with Josh Tabb? I see him on the bench but he never goes in. Is he hurt? Was he cut from BP's rotation? He is our best defensive stopper and if Coach Pearl can put his son in I am surprised he can't put Tabb in. Does anyone know ???

Posted by UT_Tim on January 10, 2008 at 10:01 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Great game….. I was screaming and jumping around there at the end. How nice it is to see a team play through going cold in the second half, getting killed on the O boards and not having a single call go their way. Ole Miss was very strong on the inside and UT didn’t give up. They kept their composure and got the job done.

Way to go TEAM…….Coach Pearl is # 1 in my book.

Posted by rbhobbs73 on January 10, 2008 at 10:12 a.m. (Suggest removal)

It was nice to see us gut out a win against a physical team that was allowed to assault us constantly. I think I startled my wife several times by yelling "over the back" or "how is that not a foul?". Apparently, the over the back foul was taken out of the rule book last night.

Ted Valentine thinks he IS the show, and it continually shows it.

Chism needs to learn to finish stronger (even though he was fouled hard on 3 of them) and don't take AS MANY 3's. One every now and then to keep the defense honest is fine.

This team has 3 weaknesses it must improve on before March.

1) rebounding (yes we are out of position A LOT and we only go up with one hand).

2) transition and interior defense. We should try stopping the ball and staying on our feet. It wouldn't bother me if we didn't block another shot all year, if it meant our bigs staying in position and contesting shots.

3) shot selection. We allowed Ole Miss to come back because a 5 possession stretch included a Wayne Chism contested 3, a Chris Lofton attempt from the "T" in Tennessee, and a JaJuan Smith fadeaway 3 with 2 guys on him. None of these were in the last 10 seconds of the shot clock. This is not how you play with a double digit 2nd Half Lead.

I believe Bruce will get these worked out.

Go Vols! Great Win!

Posted by johnlg00 on January 10, 2008 at 10:13 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Three things: 1) Since I am often a "long-poster", I guess I'll just have to live with jraymond not reading them; 2) I have been hard on Chism, but he is just NOT going to be a strong post-up guy or rebound vacuum, so we are going to have to get used to it--he did make a couple of big threes, and they are ALL big in a two-point win, and he did get eight rebounds, about double his average; 3) As a rather slight guy who often got pounded inside when I played, I would rather see the rough play get called, but we will have to play through bad calls a lot to win, especially on the road, so it's good to see that we can.

Posted by inswhiz on January 10, 2008 at 10:34 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Great win and expect greater wins in future. Just hope we dont peak too soon, just get better and better till March

Posted by ballewville6 on January 10, 2008 at 10:35 a.m. (Suggest removal)

ole miss was certainly better than i thought but we didnt play our best at times we went into a funk and couldnt do anything,and we allowed there guards to penetrate way to much for easy buckets or dish offs for dunks, but being the team we are, we overcame a 4 point defecit after a long drought of not scoring and then falling behind and showed the mental toughfness that bruce has brought to this team .great game guys and play a little better in the next few games and we should come out victors.go vols!

Posted by JHite7 on January 10, 2008 at 10:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)

jwraymond1-

I agree. He has done alot of our games mostly during the week. He's never been AS bad as he was last night, but he never has been very high on my list of officials. My biggest problem with him last night is how he watched the replay of a foul he missed on I believe JaJuan in the first half and he stood on the sideline and made gestures that it was all ball and then pointed the ball out of bounds. That kind of crap isnt even acceptable in Rec League basketball. He has a history of approaching benches and also of holding grudges. There is just no room for that. Someone said earlier Pearl should watch the coaches box line more carefully, I for one applaud Pearl because I would have not lasted in that game. Does Valentine have a set "home" conference, or is it handled solely just by the NCAA? I know just by some research I've done, he has had a TON of complaints. Eventually this all has to add up doesn't it?

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

Strange that none of you guys complained about the officiating in the Gonzaga game. I've come to the conclusion that ref'ing BB games is random.

Pearl said early in December that he would have to pare the rotation down and Josh Tabb might be the odd man out. However, can anyone explain what the situation was that Steven Pearl got in for 30 secs?

Does anybody know what the technical on Pearl was about?

Who threw the pencil on the court? Had to have been from press row. Bert or Bob?

Did it seem to anybody else that we rebounded better in the second half but got beat down court more often. Alot of Ole Miss points down the stretch were off fast, or near fast, breaks.

Have yet to be impressed by Ramar's quickness.

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

Agree with previous writer, Chism has to stop taking all thos 3's!! He is not a point guard and much rather see him under th boards then taking a 3 he probably will miss. Surprised that Pearl hasnt said something to him but come March we need Chism fighting on the boards, rebounds and another off opportunity is much better than a miss 3 and a fst break for the other team.

Posted by icecream on January 10, 2008 at 11:41 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Tyler, back where you belong!

Posted by mtoms1272 on January 10, 2008 at 11:41 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Go Freaking Vols! Incredible game! No let down against S. Cackalackie.

Posted by JHite7 on January 10, 2008 at 11:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)

jwraymond1-

It seems like he can be controlled at times, but when booed or what not he seems to get the chip on his shoulder. That has kind of been his MO from what I have read and how he has said openly said before "it's hard not to hold grudges when it gets personal." Valentine was the ring leader last night, but all three officials really had a sub-par night at best. Watching that game made me think of the Titans-Chargers regular season game.

Posted by utchris2003 on January 10, 2008 at 11:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Pearl's Tech was for being outside of the coaching box even though he was not arguing with the official. However, Kennedy threw at least 5 temper tantrums mid way on to the court and got nothing.

I think S. Pearl came in because of some early fouls to our 4's and 5's. He is a foward whereas Tabb is a guard

Posted by yabadabadoo1026 on January 10, 2008 at 12:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

VolCr, I have to agree totally--the thumpers around here are just to oversensitive and need to lighten up. Every time you hear Bruce postgame, you cant help but be so impressed with his insight and analysis---hes got charisma and leadership and in close games in the last two minutes you always feel his coaching is going to pull it out

And to the idiot who has a fire bert website, you have just too much free time on your hands if something so insignificant has become your mission in life ( i personally have no problem with him--homer that he is hes genuine and i like his enthusiasm--I think he and kessling team up well and bob does a quite good job with BB IMO--that was an exciting call at the end of the game)

Posted by mparker on January 10, 2008 at 12:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

1--put a leash on Pearl so he can't get past the box.

2--coulda used Duke, that was his type of game. Duke will dunk and he will rebound!!!!

3--Ramar needs to put on some muscle. So does JP. Those guys are great athletes, but they need some upperbody just to fight off underneath.

4-killer instinct hasn't happened yet; the men are good at getting the big spurt, but they need to get better at getting a half-court set that creates a good shot of foul.

Posted by Basketball_Jones on January 10, 2008 at 12:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Great win, the big thing is did anyone see Temple play so well against Duke? Great for us, also Xavier beat and ACC team as well, good for us. Who would have thought plaing Ohio State would be bad for scheduling?

Posted by GiveHimSix1387 on January 10, 2008 at 12:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Nice win for the Vols! By far the most physical team we have played all year and somehow we still managed to win the game after allowing them to get 20 offensive boards! I disagree with a lot of the comments about Chism. He is not shooting the ball particularly well right now but he needs to shoot his way out of this slump. A center that can make the 3-ball really helps out in that it brings opposing centers away from the basket. Getting rebounds is a team effort.. it doesn't rely on one guy. Crews should help with that when he gets back!

Oh yea and I love the fact that it seems like every game there is a different Vols who steps up and carries the team. Nice job in the clutch Tyler! Go Vols!

Posted by 55Vol on January 10, 2008 at 1:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)

jwraymond1....what aprt of teh game were you referring to abou tthe crowd? I was not there but J. Smith and Pearl himslef said something different than you did:

"I give a lot of credit to our fans. We played our hearts out tonight, especially in those last two minutes. When they were on the line shooting that one-and-one, I think the crowd is the reason he missed the free throw. It was so loud in here I couldn't believe it," JaJuan Smith said.

Pearl, always quick to thank the fans, was more impressed than usual tonight.
"Without 21,000 in the building we do not win this basketball game, I promise you. The crowd really helped us play through our fatigue.

What are you referring too?

Posted by mparker on January 10, 2008 at 1:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)

gotta do one little whine....
not only did Ole Miss get away with a lot of pushing on the offensive boards, they also created a lot of inside contact on our shots.

I thought Chris was hammered several times, Wayhe got body slammed, and even on Tyler's game-tieing shot he was bodied as he shot.

Okay, done whining. Get Duke back before we play 'em again.

Posted by jhenson on January 10, 2008 at 1:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)

If I make the statement..."that player is a stud!", do you honestly believe that I'm implying that said player could do the wild thing with a horse and father thoroughbreds? Of course not...no more than CRvol is implying that Pearl is deity by saying "he is a God". It's a figure of speech. I'm a proud christian and love God, but some of you are just being ridiculous. Get a life.

Posted by rbhobbs73 on January 10, 2008 at 2:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)

VolCR,

Preach on Brother! The JP/Lincoln Financial/Raycom package is TERRIBLE.

Atleast Larry Conley is an SEC guy...and Barry Booker. But Dave Rowe drives me CRAZY. Last year during an Arkansas game, he kept referring to Tracy Rocker as the "former Alabama All American..." HE WENT TO AUBURN! I agree,please some SEC guys...

I agree, I want games in HD... is this that hard in 2008? We are 13 months away from everything being in HD...is it too much to ask for them to get on the bandwagon?

Posted by 55Vol on January 10, 2008 at 2:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)

CR....the Raycom game was on HD last night in the Nashville area. I watched on Comcast channel 236 in HD

Posted by TurboFan on January 10, 2008 at 3:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Dang, have to agree with both jw and cr.

Raycom:
I complained about JP/LF/Raycom's lack of HD back in football season. Crappy to watch SD on a HD set. However, before the BTN here in Beg10 country, OSU has to share ESPN and CBS with all the other teams around the country and are seldom on (relatively). Raycom broadcasts SEC exclusively on Wed and Sat and a local station picks them up. I fear a SEC Network will take that away. Does anyone outside the midwest pick up BTN?

Fandom in TBA
Was also wondering if I had tuned into the Beirut library show at times. I went to the Xavier game two plus weeks ago and that place (which holds only 10k) was loud until it was hopeless in the final minute. Couldn't hear that through my HD turned SD speakers.

Posted by TurboFan on January 10, 2008 at 3:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hey jw, do you think that girl holding the "gator lover" sign loves the gators or is dating one? LOL

Posted by vol4jesus on January 10, 2008 at 3:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

unvOLSEE R you think playing with god word is cutsey(Flintstone also). Irreverance is there and ewe don't even see it since apparently' comfortably numb.' Do you repeat everything college students say? Again, full class by rude title assigned to broadcasters. Can you not say they were inept instead of being crass as usual? It appears that for 2008 we should expect the same old stuff from you in the 'land of negativity.' That aside ,we better learn how to box out or expect some losses due to giving too many scoring opportunities to opponents.

Posted by phyllisgarcia on January 10, 2008 at 4:29 p.m. (Suggest removal)

hey chism that was a good game last night you all were awesome just keep that up and you all will be champions

Posted by jevolball7 on January 10, 2008 at 4:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)

JimBell,didn' you just tell VOLCR who you thought HIS creator is?? As usual everything but your views are not correct please quit trying to cram your views down our throats. Typical .

Posted by jevolball7 on January 10, 2008 at 5:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Did someone say that Ramar doesn't have an upper body????I can't think of any point guard,I've seen that looks as ripped.

Posted by madisonvillevol on January 10, 2008 at 5:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)

bring back joe "string music" dean!

Posted by jevolball7 on January 10, 2008 at 5:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Great forum!! Very educational!! Church and spelling at the same site,can't think of 2 more boring things..... LET'S TALK ABOUT SPORTS!

Posted by jevolball7 on January 10, 2008 at 6:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)

bossvol351,you are correct.I am not and it is,barely,a somewhat free country.R U sure about the McFadden thing?

Posted by mcbrim1998 on January 10, 2008 at 6:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Why do Vols BB players wear halo's? No other team playing wears halo's like the Vols do. What gives?

Posted by jevolball7 on January 10, 2008 at 6:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Sorry to go off subject. But I know this is bound to be a site of eaters. Has anyone out there been to the new Ruths Criss.Please tell me!

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

Mcbrim, they're honoring Pearl's jewish heritage by wearing reverse yarmulka. J/K
Keeps the sweat out their eyes Mcbrim. Nothing more.

Posted by jondadam on January 10, 2008 at 8:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Pearl has done it the right way since he has come to Tennessee. He has brought an excitement that has not been here since the Bert and Ernie show. We have had teams with similar talent during the Jerry Green years, but no where close to the interest and excitement. He has brought the team through the crowd, marketed the team and Tennessee, been an ambassador to the state, brought energy and he has sold the program to everyone. The players are getting it done as well. Let the good times roll...

Posted by mcbrim1998 on January 10, 2008 at 8:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Mcbrim, they're honoring Pearl's jewish heritage by wearing reverse yarmulka. J/K
Keeps the sweat out their eyes Mcbrim. Nothing more.
-----
How does it keep the sweat out of their eyes when it is worn so far back on their heads? My point is, it looks DORKY, and only Vols do it. Oops, maybe I just answered my own question.

Never mind.

Posted by utchris2003 on January 11, 2008 at 1:17 a.m. (Suggest removal)

yabbadabbaDONT,

Yeah, you are right. I do not have a life. It took me all night to type www.firebertbertlekamp.com . It was a joke genius. Go back to your cave in Bedrock.

Seriously though. The guy is captain obvious. Kesling I can handle. What I cant handle is the BB thinking he has the greatest catch phrase ever. And I am pretty sure he stole that one. I dont want to hear "Money" when Chism hits his first trey in 12 attempts.

Posted by kevinlimbo on January 11, 2008 at 1:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)

That's the beauty of Bert. He's radio gold! TALK TO ME,DUKE!

Posted by Colliervol on January 11, 2008 at 6:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Ted Valentine was absolutely horrendous in this game. Can't sugar coat that any better. And Bert was, well, let's just say he was Bert and let it go at that.