Posted by dfreeman on January 29, 2008 at 12:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Awesome news.... Let's keep it rolling!!!

Posted by andy112382 on January 29, 2008 at 12:09 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Great news, lets keep it up!! Go Vols!!!

Will be 'fun' to see what the doom'n'gloom crowd says about these guys, who knows what criticism they can dish out....they never cease to amaze me how low they will go.

Posted by jevolball7 on January 29, 2008 at 12:15 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Keep on rockin'

Posted by utchris2003 on January 29, 2008 at 12:16 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Rivals has us at 15 commitments. This article has us at 14. Do they proof and use spell check at the KNS. It seems like there are flaws with almost every article on here.

Posted by nicksjuzunk on January 29, 2008 at 12:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Is sphs_vol's prophecies beginning to come true???

Posted by GiveHimSix1387 on January 29, 2008 at 12:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Two solid commitments. I never thought I'd be so happy to see a couple of 3*s. GO VOLS!

Posted by redneckerson on January 29, 2008 at 12:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)

sphs, if we keep getting these 3* guys, how will we have room for all the 4*s that are going to defect on signing day? Didn't you say 8 or 10 of them? That would mean nothing but 4*s left, right?

Posted by nicksjuzunk on January 29, 2008 at 12:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)

sphs_vol,

Do you walk around with a permanant smile?

Posted by andy112382 on January 29, 2008 at 12:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Yea, those darn 3 stars......like Justin Harrell, Tony McDaniel, Brad Cottam, Jerod Mayo, Arian Foster, Anthony Parker, Erik Ainge, Chris Brown, Ramon Foster, Ellix Wilson, Dan Williams, Lucas Taylor, Marsalous Johnson, Daniel Lincoln, Dennis Rogan......

Or how about 2 star morons like Hefney (out of HS), Inky Johnson, and Ryan Karl....

None of those guy can play worth a lick....how dare us spend time recruiting them and waste money on scholarships for them!

*cue rolling of eyes*

(citing scout.com for that info)

I'll take 3 star guys all day long if they are big, tough football players who will bleed orange and play at 110% speed every saturday!

GO VOLS!!!

Posted by brdteton on January 29, 2008 at 12:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)

...Go Vols@!!...

Posted by andy112382 on January 29, 2008 at 12:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Just as a side note as far as the recruiting rankings go, based on scout.com, that horrible Ohio St team that has played for the national title (hey, its not their fault the SEC is far superior) the past two years, during the years 2002, '03, '04, '05, '06, and '07....they only had a top 10 class two times.....man, how can you possibly think about winning without a top 10 class every year!

Posted by dfreeman on January 29, 2008 at 12:52 a.m. (Suggest removal)

JT Floyd appears to be heading to Michigan, so there's room for one 4*!! That's alright though!! He was considered a soft verbal anyway right?? Great news on these two though!!

Posted by cphil on January 29, 2008 at 12:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Personally, I don't count any of them until the pen is put to the paper. Bohannon is a classic example. He's committed to UK and UT both in a month's time. I hope we do sign him, but I'll wait till the chicken hatches before I count them.

Posted by anthony on January 29, 2008 at 12:57 a.m. (Suggest removal)

i believe we heard Phillip Fulmer saying the other day , "Recruiting is like a box of chocolates, you never know what's you're gonna' get"@#!!!

Posted by redneckerson on January 29, 2008 at 12:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)

just a side note andy, the guys who win it rank higher. Ain't nothing wrong with 4* and 5* players and highly ranked classes.

Posted by andy112382 on January 29, 2008 at 1:12 a.m. (Suggest removal)

redneckerson, never said anything was wrong with 4 and 5 star guys, so you are preaching to the choir, bud. What I did say is that there is nothing wrong with 3 star guys, either, more examples to list than anyone would ever care to see posted on here, many of which are playing in the NFL right now.

Posted by ONUV on January 29, 2008 at 6:23 a.m. (Suggest removal)

stop using scout

www.rivals.com

Posted by pdhuff on January 29, 2008 at 6:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Bohannon looks like the real deal. Keep em' coming, Phillip. Snag us another potential DT, in the rough or polished. Like the ancient HS cheer, "hold that line". True then, true today.

Fingers crossed.

Posted by jimr07 on January 29, 2008 at 7:16 a.m. (Suggest removal)

TouchdownTN--Have you told coach Fulmer yet your opinion. He is probably waiting to hear from you since you are such an expert at evaluating talent. Please call him today as I am certain he is awaiting your approval.

Posted by GreerVol22 on January 29, 2008 at 7:23 a.m. (Suggest removal)

hey Touchdown, did you hear? We stole a Kentucky commit! Are you as giddy as I am?.......not exactly a chest thumper Phil...and if you lose 4*Floyd, who in local SC papers has been firm UT for almost a year, then what have you accomplished?

Posted by nivatne on January 29, 2008 at 7:25 a.m. (Suggest removal)

If we close w/ McCain, Ward, and Coples, this class could have TONS of potential. We would for sure be in the Top 25, which I think is more than anyone could have hoped for 2 weeks ago. Let's keep this Big Orange Train rolling!!! Keep em' coming Phil!!!

Posted by nivatne on January 29, 2008 at 7:25 a.m. (Suggest removal)

If we close w/ McCain, Ward, and Coples, this class could have TONS of potential. We would for sure be in the Top 25, which I think is more than anyone could have hoped for 2 weeks ago. Let's keep this Big Orange Train rolling!!! Keep em' coming Phil!!!

Posted by 99gator on January 29, 2008 at 7:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)

y'all need to lay off of tdtn.

y'all are ectatic because some people committed which is good news.

but, i'll ask you all this....for those who follow tennessee recruiting.....were these guys on tenn's radar in the fall of 2007. or did they get on the radar after striking out on some other guys. if some of you are recruiting junkies, like i am, there is a list of guys who it is well known your school is going after. were these guys on it?

some of you could find out they got a commitment from J.P. Connors and you would have no idea who it is.

based on what some of you had said, i expected big news and this is not stealing commitments from other schools and it's not getting julio jones or a big time headlining name either.

best of luck to the 2 new vols. congrats and may your time at tenn be what you hope for.

Posted by ATLVOL1 on January 29, 2008 at 7:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)

These guys are solid....bohannon may be the 5th best DE in this class at the end...Waggnercan be special with 15-20 more lbs on him....

Floyd is rated higher than waggner but sounds like a D-bag saying "michigan fans will be happy" so I will take that tradeoff.

These guys sound like good young men instead of flashy pospects like Floyd does.

Posted by ATLVOL1 on January 29, 2008 at 7:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)

aGREE 99 GATOR

Ward,Coples,McClaine would put us in top 25 for sure....
I think we will get Coples and lose Ward to UNC and McClaine to Auburn....though I would loike to seem em in Orange.We are in final 2 against their home state schools which are 2 strong programs at this point UNC and Auburn.

If we get Coples and apparently his buddy Davis may come along too that will give us a backfield full of potential as much as UGA and Auburn.

Posted by txsvol on January 29, 2008 at 8:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I usually take TDTN's comments with a grain of salt, but, having watched the video of Marcel Dareus last week during a no news day, he's absolutely right on Dareus. He's a beast--on the video's first play, he ragdolled the QB, and the second, this 6' 4" 275# behemoth with 4.95 speed ran down a screen pass receiver 20 yards down the field. The rest of the video was also impressive. I read that he has a brother, and that John Blake, defensive coordinator at North Carolina, was recruiting both. With the scholarships we have available, I'd give a 'twofer' to the brothers, having not even seen the 'other brother,' and so posted last week. Didn't think much of Bohannon's video--just saw him without pads, and the blocker the same, running towards a dummy representing the QB during a workout. Go Vols! SAVol

Posted by waterskier3 on January 29, 2008 at 9:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)

all due respect andy112382 but how many bcs bowls have we won with these 3 star recruits??? how many championships have we won with these 3 star recruits? in the sec if your entire class averages 3 stars on signing day you'll average 3-4 losses per year in the sec and guess what we've average 4 losses in the last 3 years... so 3* are ok but to compete for championships we have to have the true studs sign year after year...

I hope phil pulls a great class because 1 great class out of 3 years means to many 3 stars on the field the next two years... equates into average football.... GO VOLS close strong!!!!!!

Posted by sjt18 on January 29, 2008 at 9:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Floyd is a 4* according to who?

He may be a great player but I'm not aware that he's ever been more than a 3* and some consider that generous.

99gator, Waggner has been someone UT has wanted for awhile. He can be developed into a DB or maybe a LB. He apparently has very good instincts.

Bohannon is someone they became interested in later. If they considered him a true back up, they wouldn't have taken his commitment until after hearing from a couple of other guys.

Posted by pdhuff on January 29, 2008 at 9:34 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Well, I'm heartened by Phil's hard work. I was afraid the parade was passing us by. Many on here are positive and that's good.

As I said, habit makes me look at who else wanted these kids. Not very professional, but it tells you what others thought also. Its a downer to look at AJC Top 100 -UT -1 Ga -9. ESPN 150 UT 1- Ga 9. Fla just moved to # 1 in some circles. Bama is having a bear of a year.

Since we face these teams it is a little disturbing at the tasks facing our coaching staff. Beat Bama.

I digress. I'm ready for signing day and warm weather. Beat Bama.

Posted by andy112382 on January 29, 2008 at 9:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)

waterskier3, well we did top UGA and UF to win the SEC east and were 9 mins away from topping the eventual national champs in the SEC title game.......that's a start!

Look, don't get me wrong, I'll take 4 and 5 star commitments all day long, but I am sick of seeing people immediately bash guys based on solely their star rating if they have 3 or less stars.....don't be so freakin' dependent on the rating the guy has, all of that goes out the window as soon as they hit the practice field in the spring anyway.

GO VOLS!!!

Posted by orangebloodgmc on January 29, 2008 at 9:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)

sjt, if we get 'em they are no more than 3-star, but if we lose 'em they are 4's. ;)

Posted by GerryOP on January 29, 2008 at 10:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Let the good times roll! Let's hope that this is the beginning of a great 7 days of recruiting news!

Posted by knoxsingle on January 29, 2008 at 10:07 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Congratulations to Mr. Waggner and Mr. Bohannon! Welcome to the Volunteer family.

Posted by sjt18 on January 29, 2008 at 10:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)

VolCR, If UT finishes top 25 taking one WR, no (or a project) QB's, 2 RB's... then that WILL be an impressive class.

The one thing we've come to expect is that you won't get exciting about anything positive... You will always try to find the gloom and doom in everything. Pathetic yes... but that's the way you are.

As I've said many times before, DL and OL are the most difficult positions for these recruiting svcs to evaluate. They get a better read on kids from higher classifications since they play opponents slightly more like they'll see in college. However, none of these kids routinely face other players that can come close to their size. You can't really say how a HS DT will do against an All SEC OG by watching him bulldoze a bunch of 230-250 lb kids that can't even play small college ball.

Posted by VolnDothan on January 29, 2008 at 10:11 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Yeah! Take that Kentucky and Minnesota...you two football powerhouses!

Have you all lost your ********** minds!?!? This IS NOT the caliber of players we normally recruit. You all have lowered your standards as far as I'm concerned.

Posted by orangebloodgmc on January 29, 2008 at 10:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)

VolnDothan, there are still some big 'uns out there for which we are still in the running, and you can bet Coach Phil and Co. are quite busy as we speak. Meanwhile we got room for some 2 and 3-stars who may be under the radar of USC and Notre Dame. There's a whole week left before signing day and some of the biggest blue chips only announce on the day of. Take it easy, brotha.

Posted by orangebloodgmc on January 29, 2008 at 10:26 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Defensive tackle is not a position that a true freshman typically walks in and takes over, as far as I know.

Posted by sjt18 on January 29, 2008 at 10:37 a.m. (Suggest removal)

VolCR, Many if not most DT's are built from DE's with good frames. The reason is that they'll usually keep their speed more as they bulk up.

UT is still on the radar for several players. I'm not ready to buy what sphs is trying to sell. OTOH, there is a potential to have a pretty good class.

Wadley is a 4* DL according to Scout (3* Rivals) that is high on the Vols. Coples, Savage, Dareus (that TDTN mentioned), and a few others are still out there with interest in UT. Abrams-Ward is still out there and seems to be even between UT and UNC.

McClain is still out there. Massie isn't a kid that's been talked about alot but he's a big Va OL that's visited UT and liked it last fall before the coaching changes. Clawson and staff undoubtedly have a network to him.

I'm not predicting anything... just saying it is possible. Caution is more prudent this year considering how many recruits UT has finished second place with so far.

Here's another "if"- IF UT signs just 3 more 4* players which seems very possible then they'll finish with better than a 3* average and 24 signees. If I remember correctly, that would have put them in the top 25 last year.

You know we cry about all the guys UT is losing from Tn but Wilks was on everyone's all state team and was the top player according to some. Rivals/Scout have him 3*. Bailey was a pretty dominant OL and the svcs actually dropped him from a 4* to a 3*. Hughes created a near fever pitch amongst you negative folks... but read any of the articles about him with consideration to what he did in the All Star game against the best talent in the state.... and he sure doesn't sound like a zero * player.

I like that his coach said specifically that he has an incredible motor for a big guy.

This isn't CPF's first rodeo. Even in an off class, he'll find contributors... the best question is how many and how good.

Posted by jimr07 on January 29, 2008 at 10:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)

VolCR--how do you know we are not signing who we want. are you on the inside of things? did coach Fulmer check with you first? I am sure he wants your input.

Posted by sjt18 on January 29, 2008 at 10:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)

VolCR, make up your mind... be consistent. If you want to complain about the rankings then let's talk rankings. If you want to speculate about whether UT is getting who or what they want... then let's do that... But no more bait and switch, OK?

FTR, neither you nor I know where these various guys fit on UT's board unless we happen to hear bits and pieces. I've seen it written that Poole has been at or near the top all year... even over numerous 4* players that showed interest. Just because a guy's name isn't circulated doesn't mean he hasn't been someone they've looked at. Just because they look late, doesn't mean they don't find someone better than a player they missed on earlier.

Recruiting is fluid for both the programs and the players. E Davis wasn't on the radar until a couple of weeks ago... at least publicly. Who knows how much "unofficial" contact was made when he played the JV game at Neyland last year?

Coples has appeared and disappeared as a topic two or 3 times. Thompson wasn't considered a possibility by most folks I've read until he made a visit.

Like an iceberg... it is likely we don't see 90% of what gets looked at and considered.

Posted by sjt18 on January 29, 2008 at 10:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)

"exactly orangebloodmc, look at our roster and tell be me who outside of Dan Williams we can count on at DT in 2009? Langley, is the only other guy that appears to be big enough and he hasn't played a game yet."

Fisher, Nelson, Thomas, Langley, Mathis maybe, Sykes, and Hall. None have been proven but all are potentials... which is exactly what most schools are projecting for 2009.

Posted by bernardking on January 29, 2008 at 10:46 a.m.

(This comment was removed by the site staff.)

Posted by sjt18 on January 29, 2008 at 10:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)

If he/she/it actually said that then UT should be great this year on D. Only two potential starters on D this year will have been under 4*- Dan Williams and E Wilson. Their backups and most of the others in the two deep are also 4* or better.

The O has two 3* OL's... but both were good enough to get draft analyses. Foster and maybe Rogers would be the only other potential 3* starters.

Posted by sjt18 on January 29, 2008 at 10:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)

"A POSITIVE AURA PERMEATES"

sphs, saying this is almost an admission that you are making it all up.

Posted by GiveHimSix1387 on January 29, 2008 at 10:57 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Once again, recruiting is overrated! My roommate is a Bama fan and he is more excited about football now than he was in the regular season! I would much rather land a top 30 recruiting class than embarrass the SEC and lose to UL Monroe. Lets address our needs in the spring and get who we can. These are 18 yr. old kids so nothing is guaranteed! No matter who we have, Phil and the new staff will have this team prepared to compete for an SEC title! GO VOLS!

Posted by orangebloodgmc on January 29, 2008 at 10:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)

And why are we leaving out Bolden? Did I miss some news about him? Brimfield's out there too.

Our dt situation is not what I would like it to be, but I think it is a notch better going into next season than it was beginning this past season. Our db situation should be much better and our lbs as a whole maybe even with last year's, despite losing Mayo.

Posted by grvol on January 29, 2008 at 11:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)

This is the 4th year Gerald Williams has been on the list. Take away his four stars and the past 3 years aren't so high. 2006 would be ranked more like 40 not 25 or whatever it was. Take away all the defections from that class and it probably ranked about 110 in reality. How many more years is Fulmer gonna recycle this guy on the list.

Posted by grvol on January 29, 2008 at 11:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)

This is the 4th year Gerald Williams has been on the list. Take away his four stars and the past 3 years aren't so high. 2006 would be ranked more like 40 not 25 or whatever it was. Take away all the defections from that class and it probably ranked about 110 in reality. How many more years is Fulmer gonna recycle this guy on the list.

Posted by GreerVol22 on January 29, 2008 at 11:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)

bernard.......what would Ernie say about such language???

Posted by PLEASEGETRIDOFTHENOTSOSLIMONE on January 29, 2008 at 11:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)

sjt18 can find a way to put a positive spin on anything. He can somehow put a positive spin on the Alabama game last year. He has a Fat Head of CPF above his bed.

Posted by bernardking on January 29, 2008 at 11:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Where do you think I learned the f-bomb?

Posted by volmac72 on January 29, 2008 at 11:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2008...

Log on, UT is no where in sight ot he top 25. This is a reflection of the coaching staff past experience of handling of top notch recruits. NO SEC championships, No NCs, no mention of even being a serious contender for the last 5 or more years at least. Besides, even if we had a top 10 class, Fulmer's Do Less with More will/would ultimately fizzle out to be a 8,9, 10 win team and AGAIN losing to & being B*&^%$-slapped by Florida, LSU and the likes...HELL no 8,9, 10 is not good enough, A championship every now and then only settles and calms the orange-blood fans, SEC or NC just win one....

Posted by easton3 on January 29, 2008 at 11:37 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Rivals5:Super Sleepers

Alfred Jenkins,WR Fla.
Ricky Pemasa, LB Calif.
Bret Jeffcoat, QB Miss.
Jeff Brinson, RB Fla.
Willie Bohannon, DE Ala.
"Bohannon is that hybrid DE/LB that a lot of schools are looking for. He has the athletic ability and speed to be a great pass rusher and the lateral agility to cover backs out in the flats. During the week of the Alabama/Miss all-star classic, he gained the reputation of being a headhunter.
Bohannon recently switched his commitment from Ketucky to Tn and I think the Vols got another instant impact defender from one of their fellow southern states. Look for Bohannon to start out on all coverage teams, and have a opportunity to eventually move into the defensive lineup as a true freshman".

You guys shouldn't trip over the rankings. This kid is a good one. Congrats!!

ROLL TIDE !!!!

Posted by Musicman74 on January 29, 2008 at 11:41 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I would rather have a bunch of 3* players, put out a 110% efferton the field, than 4-5* players that only put out 90-95%. When you get a bunch of SUPERSTARS then they think they don't have to put out that much effert to be able to win.And in the SEC if you don't put the effert out you lose. It is hard to predict how good a high school player is anyway. All the ratings are just one persons guess anyway.
You really don't know good someone is until they spet on the football field in college anyway. Look at how many NFL player come from smaller schools. A lot of those players were over looked by the bigger schools. A few years ago schools like Rutgers, Boise State, ect. were everyone pundhing bags. now look at them they are in the top 25 in the polls every year.
Get Real People.
Phil knows what he is doing.
GO VOLS!!!!!

Posted by bigbluevol on January 29, 2008 at 11:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Volmac, we got b%$# slapped by Florida once. LSU has beaten us the last two years by a combined 11 points. 2006 we lost to Florida by 1 point. Don't act like we're just perpetually getting it handed to us by these teams.

Posted by ATLVOL1 on January 29, 2008 at 11:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)

CHECK THIS OUT FROM ESPN RECRUITING:

WE ARE #1 WITH THIS KID....

Leon Mackey
DT | 6'4" 280

Hometown: Newark, DE
School: Hargrave Military Academy
Region: Atlantic Status: Undeclared

You are signed into Insider and have access to the exclusive recruiting content below.

Last Updated: 11/8/2007 Data provided by Scouts, Inc.

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

Scouts Grade: 77
Position Rank: DT #35
Considering: 1-Tennessee , 2-N.C. State , 3-Pittsburgh , 4-Temple , 5-Buffalo

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

Evaluation: Mackey is an interesting prospect with good upside. He looks on film to have good size and nice athleticism to match. At this point he is a bit of a swing guy that goes back and forth between the defensive end and tackle position. He could play that role in college, but looking at his size as a junior you have to believe he will develop into a full time tackle at the college level. He has a good get-off and flashes the ability to quickly burst out of his stance at times. He displays good strength and an effort to play in a football position. He has the ability to take on and hold his ground versus single and double team blocks. He flashes the ability to use his hands to create some separation and shed. He is at this point inconsistent with his weapons and needs to become more violent with them. He has the tools to be a disruptive defender that can get penetration, but needs to be more explosive. He is can be a bit slow off the ball at times and this will hurt him. Despite good size and strength he will allow a blocker to get into him and push him off the line of scrimmage. He also can be adequate at shedding from blocks. He does a good job of protecting his legs and not being cut, but some of that has to do with him not really firing out of his stance. He moves well for a player his size. He has good speed when he opens up and solid lateral movement. While can move he seems to play hesitant at times. He will almost make himself look stiff. He has a good motor and you can tell there is effort being given, but too often it looks like he is over thinking the play. You would like to see him do less thinking and more just letting his ability take over. He is a solid wrap-up tackler. He is an adequate pass rusher. He can bull and generate some push. He needs to work on developing some moves to help him get by blockers and keep his pads down. Mackey has good ability, but is a bit raw at this point. He needs to keep developing as a player and squeeze the most out of his natural talent. Also as he enters college the level of play will increase. Mackey has good potential and can be a good college player if he can let loose and get more from his ability.

Notes: Transferred from Christiana (Newark, Del.) to Hargrave Military Academy for senior year...

Posted by orangebloodgmc on January 29, 2008 at 11:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)

VolCR, my bad if I overlooked that you were referring to who would be at dt in 2009. I agree with you that that should have been our biggest priority this recruiting season. But bottom line is that its not over yet.

Posted by ATLVOL1 on January 29, 2008 at 12:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Ok ESPN has mackey with UT #1, scout has him out of the running, so...

Posted by hiresanders on January 29, 2008 at 12:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Wow! We beat out Minnesota and Kentucky for a prospect?? He must be great!

Posted by thesavageorange on January 29, 2008 at 12:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

hiresanders ,Bohannon:We also beat Alabama ,Auburn,and Ole Miss.Waggner:We also beat Nebraska,Florida,Auburn,Ole Miss,and N Carolina.They had just previously chose KY and Minn.It's not like they wer not wanted by other good schools.

Posted by thesavageorange on January 29, 2008 at 12:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)

In all honesty I think we need to close on Savage ,and maybe Everett.Both are listed at DT, although Savage played mostly DE in HS.Everett isn't a weight gain project at 6'4 300lbs.Everyone knows we need DT's , and these might be our best shots.I hate to say it ,but I think Marcel Dareus is Bama bound.

Posted by sjt18 on January 29, 2008 at 12:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)

pleasegetridof. I'm not spinning anything. I said Thompson was a big deal when others were trying to deny it. I never said UT was getting who they wanted. The fact of the matter is that they ARE getting recruits that have good potential. The fact of the matter is that the recruiting svcs DO struggle to evaluate linemen with any degree of accuracy. Not ever great player is highly recruited. As for stealing a UK commit being a bad thing, they were among the few that went after Woodson, Little, Locke, that LB whose name I can't remember off the top of my head, etc.

When someone sounds delusionally positive, my flags come up (ie. sphs). When someone sounds delusionally negative, my flags come up... The fact is there are just alot more delusionally negative fans here than delusionally positive.

Posted by sjt18 on January 29, 2008 at 12:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)

VolCR, No you are the one whining that UT is taking lower rated players and stealing from UK to do it.

... and... NO... you have NO idea whether UT is getting the players or types of players they want or not unless you are close enough to the program to have a coach discuss it with you. The leaks that come out come through credible sources that have direct ties to REAL insiders.

Just a reminder on that, they aren't finished with the class.

Posted by 1974Vol on January 29, 2008 at 1 p.m. (Suggest removal)

It is extremely difficult to evaluate HS linemen and project how they might perform in the SEC. None of them come in ready to play. About the best you can do is get kids with a big enough frame and that have some natural quickness and athleticism. Good grades and a good upbringing should factor in as well. Doesn't matter how good you are if you can't stay in school. Recruiting class evaluations are skewed towards skilled players especially QB's. Top ranked schools are always loaded at QB, TB & WR. Nebraska never had highly rated classes and Coach Osborne won a few games. I hope the Vols are trending away from loading up on 4-5 highly ranked TB's and more towards recruiting more numbers in line prospects and then developing them. Clemson in the Danny Ford years, Osborne at Nebraska, Gene Stallings at Alabama all focused on recruiting good linemen, or at least got ones they could develop. The Vols top classes always revolved around getting a couple of highly touted QB's. (i.e.Manning & the Texas kid) You can't play but one QB, but you can play as many DT's as you have good ones. Devote more of the numbers to DT's and DE's. Then move the ones not quick enough to the O side of the ball. Recruit 10-12 big boys a year. Its amazing how much better your QB's and TB's play when your line dominates. Made Jay Barker the winningest QB in the SEC during his 4 years at Bama, and no one ever mistook Jay for a Manning.

Posted by thesavageorange on January 29, 2008 at 1 p.m. (Suggest removal)

TouchdownTN ,I believe you TD.He is the one I want as well, but w/ the recent good news bad news lately, that would be a shock.

Posted by sjt18 on January 29, 2008 at 1:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Oh, wise one. Why won't Fisher be at UT in 2009? He came back with 3 years of eligibility because of RSing at JUCO. That's a growing trend so players have more time with their college team.

Posted by sjt18 on January 29, 2008 at 1:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)

TDTN, There ARE no HS players who are instant impact at DT in the SEC... Not happening whether it is that kid or anyone else. Marvin Austin was as close as they come. He was marginal this year at UNC. I saw him play once on tv and get pushed around by ECU or someone... You know, a team built around 2* players?

The players who can help UT at DT this year are the ones that have been in development since a year or two ago... when we thought they'd be instant impact too.

Posted by VolsorCat on January 29, 2008 at 1:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Give up guys. The naysayers are going to fix them another Swansons dinner, turn on Springer and send 20 emails on each article banging away on the negativity drum. If the other kid wants to go to Michigan, don't let the door hit him in the ass. The chips are falling and I feel like UT is on its way up.

Posted by bigorangedude on January 29, 2008 at 1:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Finally a couple of good signees. Whats the deal with some of these guys choosing Michigan over the mighty Vols? Michagan's new coach is completely changing their philosophy, I dont think he will last at Michigan

Posted by sjt18 on January 29, 2008 at 1:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

VolCR, I have posted here specifically that Hughes would have never gotten the opportunity if Thompson had chosen UT. My point is that you don't know where a guy like Bohannon was scored by UT compared to Savage or some other DL. Typically I'd say Hughes is something like an option C.

Yes. To answer your question, they'll always take the surer bet when they can. OTOH, something made CPF think he could afford this risk. Could be desperation. Could be that he feels good about the others he's getting. Could be that he really thinks the kid is that good.... We'll know more on NSD.

Hughes is interesting. Someone has to be convinced that he's just grossly underrated. If he goes JUCO/CC/Prep, we'll know for sure. Those players give the recruiting svcs alot more data to evaluate. His HS coach's comments were that he plays with a very high motor. A 6'5" 265 lb kid with a high motor... Worth the risk to you? How about if contrary to so many others you are recruiting, this kid is born a UT fan?

Posted by sjt18 on January 29, 2008 at 1:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)

My sincere apologies. I was thinking Fisher got back last year but it was in fact 2006. Sorry.

Posted by bigorangedude on January 29, 2008 at 1:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Does anyone know what QB's Tennessee is recruiting (thats interested in UT) besides Casey Kelly?

Posted by nivatne on January 29, 2008 at 1:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Quick question? Why are we so concerned w/ Davis @ RB? I mean, I know it is important to stockpile talent, but we have Foster (Sr), Hardesty (Jr), and Creer (So). When would this kid even see the field? Would we RS him, something I'm not sure he would be thrilled about...just curious to see what yall think

Posted by sjt18 on January 29, 2008 at 1:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)

No one publicly that I know of.

I think EJ Manuel may have visited in the fall before committing to FSU but I'm not sure. He listed UT as a consideration.

Curt Phillips is from Tn and has more than likely been to UT. Not sure if he's taken an official visit. He's been committed to Wisconsin for awhile. I read that Cut for some reason told him he didn't fit UT's system. It is within the realm of possibilities that he and UT may be taking another look at each other since a new O staff is in.

Posted by sjt18 on January 29, 2008 at 2:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Davis is the #3 prep school player in the country. He is about 6' tall, 220 lbs, and runs a 4.39 40. Usually 40 times are inflated but Hargrave is more reliable than most.

No matter where he goes he'll compete for playing time.

Foster will undoubtedly start for UT. I love to watch Hardesty run but he's always fighting some injury. Creer has great potential but he didn't just light it up as a Fr to the point where you don't keep recruiting more options. There are some others like Vereen that could break out too.

Davis may have more natural ability than anyone UT has on the roster.

Posted by bigorangedude on January 29, 2008 at 2:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm no expert, but wouldnt it make sense to make this the year to go after a big time QB, or else next year we play who, a freshman?

Posted by volfan_in_mississippi on January 29, 2008 at 2:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)

"Posted by grvol on January 29, 2008 at 11:04 a.m. :
This is the 4th year Gerald Williams has been on the list. Take away his four stars and the past 3 years aren't so high. 2006 would be ranked more like 40 not 25 or whatever it was. Take away all the defections from that class and it probably ranked about 110 in reality. How many more years is Fulmer gonna recycle this guy on the list."
*
If you take away these numbers from TN, then you would have to take away from every other school the kids that washed out or never made it on campus. If you do that, then that class will rank in about the same place as it did.

I wish these scouting services would re-evaluate these classes after 4 years based on production and who is still with the program. Compare outgoing rating with the incoming rating and see where the classes really fell.

Auburn sends out a newsletter each year showing what their recruits from 4 years earlier have contributed to Auburn.

Posted by sjt18 on January 29, 2008 at 2:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

JC is a RS JR. Stephens is a RS So. Coleman is a RS Fr.

JC has two more years of eligibility.

Posted by sjt18 on January 29, 2008 at 2:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)

"I wish these scouting services would re-evaluate these classes after 4 years based on production and who is still with the program. Compare outgoing rating with the incoming rating and see where the classes really fell."

If you could sell your opinions without any accountability... would you volnutarily introduce accountability? Few people remember who was rated what in 4 years and even fewer are critical of the recruiting svcs for it.

Good point about the guys not making it in. Most if not all SEC schools lost some guys to academics or something.

Posted by sjt18 on January 29, 2008 at 2:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Not my info VolCR... Just passing on possibilities as I've seen them that might flesh out sphs' conspiracy theory.

As for knowing what I'm talking about, I don't mind being wrong once in awhile... and learning even from a smart aleck like you. I frankly don't see that in you. You've made quite a few off the wall predictions and comments but don't ever seem to get around to admitting you were wrong.

Posted by sjt18 on January 29, 2008 at 2:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Thanks sphs. I'll stop trying to figure you out and just wait. We'll know soon enough.

Of course you know I agree that the extreme negative attitudes on some of the boards play some part in SOME players' decisions.

I'm not that excited about a QB. If they fill out a class of primarily linemen and LB's that are 4* players... I'll be happier even with a lower ranking.

Posted by sjt18 on January 29, 2008 at 2:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)

sphs, that's not to say I wouldn't like to see EJ Manuel in orange. If I remember correctly his measurables are something like: 6'5", 215, 4.6 40. I think Rivals had him as one of the strongest arms in the country too.

Posted by nivatne on January 29, 2008 at 2:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I don't think I would go as far to say Creer didn't light it up. He had the highest YPC on the team at 5.9 (granted, against 2nd stringers), but he showed a real burst, great vision, and a second gear that Foster or Hardesty don't have. Don't get me wrong, I love Foster, but Creer sure showed alot of promise. I would like to see him out on the field alot more.

Posted by VOLinDAWGland on January 29, 2008 at 2:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Sheesh VolCR...sjt just took the gentleman's approach by apologizing and admitting his error and you continue to pile on. Just to clue you in...when someone gracefully admits error and apologizes, that is a signal to call off the dogs.

Posted by redneckerson on January 29, 2008 at 2:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

whoa now, sphs, now if all your blather doesn't come to pass, it will be the fault of the posters on these boards? Gotta call a BS on that one. Are you any relation to thevol - he's always throwing out "facts" that, well, just ain't facts.

Posted by VOLinDAWGland on January 29, 2008 at 2:47 p.m. (Suggest removal)

nivatne,
I don't think anyone would argue that, but he wasn't soooo awesome that you had to sit Foster and Hardesty. He was a liability in pass protection and pass catching...which is typical for Frosh RBs. I expect him to improve dramatically. I totally agree with 1974vol's approach and I think we got away from that approach in the chase for speed and skill players. When you have the built in recruiting challenges that TN has you have to be creative. TN has typically been good at bringing in contributors from JC and has been working the Hargrove angle. Being creative by stocking up on prospects is probably what they have in mind with the Hughes kid. If there's no scholarship wasted this year, then why not? He fits the profile of an overlooked prospect with potential upside, he's instate and he wants to be a Vol. I hope he can get his grades right and realize his dream...what's the harm in that?

Posted by sjt18 on January 29, 2008 at 2:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Not a problem VOLinDAWGland. I am a hopeful realist. It would be nice to think everyone possessed class... but it isn't realistic.

VolCR, if you've ever caught me in a factual mistake before... you haven't posted it... and you most certainly would have.

I'm not going to spend the time to research your posts... I'll just keep it in mind for future reference.

Posted by ATLVOL1 on January 29, 2008 at 2:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hardesty is a MAN among boys when healthy

Creer ran too straight ahead I thought, but I maya be wrong.

Poole will be starting in 09'

Posted by thesavageorange on January 29, 2008 at 3:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm sure some of you already know , but for those who don't ,AJ Alexander re-commited to FSU.Only posting it b/c alot of peoples 2nd concern was a breakaway receiver.Not to worry (IMHO)Paige,Moore,O'Neal,and Jones all run a legit 4.4.Hopefully coach Scott will show what he can do.W/ a year under their belt , there is no excuse for the receiver unit not to be extremely productive.This all falls on the new staff b/c we have O weapons.

Posted by 99gator on January 29, 2008 at 3:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)

i'd love for you all to steal e.j. manuel.

steal as many from fsu as possible.

Posted by thesavageorange on January 29, 2008 at 3:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Sorry I hadn't read the other article yet that gave the facts about Alexander commiting to FSU.Still think we are fine at receiver.

Posted by nivatne on January 29, 2008 at 3:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I don't disagree at all the Davis may be the best of the bunch. All I am saying is that with Fulmer's tendancy to always play the more experienced player, I can't see where Davis would see the field soon. I hope we get him, turns out to be a stud, and runs his way into UT recordbooks. I just hope the coaches look at talent, not experience.

Posted by thesavageorange on January 29, 2008 at 3:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)

nivatne ,Posting a 4.3 40 w/ solid running skills will help him get on the field somewhere.(KR PR etc..)If CPF sticks to his word,Clawson will have the reins of the O.This is a critical yr for Fulmer.The playmakers will see the field regardless of class.Well, that better be the case or the seat will get a little warmer.

Posted by sjt18 on January 29, 2008 at 4:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)

"Of course you don't want to research my posts. That would require a little thing called effort."

No. It would be called spending more time on a pompous smart aleck than what they deserve.

You are universally negative. I have called you numerous times on that. If you think the world really is as negative as you portray it then you have issues that can't be resolved very easily...

"Instead, you would rather just make baseless comments to give the appearance that you know what you are talking about like you have done today."

Hardly. Almost everything that I don't identify as an opinion is something I've read or heard. Unlike you, I prefer to deal with reality and not some dark lensed impression of it.

Yes. I acknowledge that I make mistakes. In fact, I welcome correction even from a classless, graceless smart aleck like you. It makes me better and corrects what I might pass on to others... leaving me MORE credible as opposed to those who won't acknowledge their mistakes.

Again, if these types of mistakes were the rule everyone here knows that you would be more than happy to point it out...

The comments weren't baseless. There you go. I just pointed out an ERROR on your part. I made mistakes... They weren't "baseless" unless you are saying that UT doesn't have a DT named Fisher that came back from JUCO with 3 years of eligibility or that there isn't a QB from Tn named Curt Phillips that had some level of interest in UT before committing to Wisconsin.

There it is.... ONE HUGE GLARING MISTAKE ALREADY. I'll be sure to watch for more.

Posted by sjt18 on January 29, 2008 at 4:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

IMO, if Davis commits to UT, he will play this fall. He has the natural gifts to pass everyone except Foster who will be favored because of his seniority and experience.

Posted by invisiblekid on January 29, 2008 at 4:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)

http://www.uwbadgers.com/sport_news/f...

For anyone interested in the Curt Phillips situation. UT blew their chance to sign him when they recruited him as an athlete instead of offering him a chance to play QB. I believe there were questions about his arm strength.

Posted by invisiblekid on January 29, 2008 at 4:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Count me on the Dareus bandwagon with TDTN and TX/SAVol. Shame that we don't seem to be on his radar.

I agree with the point made by sjt18(and a couple of others) that DT's rarely, if ever, come in and contribute immediately. That being said, the question I have for those who follow recruiting much closer than myself, are there any JUCO DT's that the Vols are looking at? It worked out well with Mahelona and I just don't see that we are solid enough at the position to be content with signing projects and DE's that need another 50-75 lbs.

Posted by thesavageorange on January 29, 2008 at 4:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

invisiblekid ,The JUCO's are put in w/ the regular recruits on recruiting sites.Unfortunately there are no JUCO DT's rated higher than Dareus or Everett, that haven't commited.

Posted by sjt18 on January 29, 2008 at 4:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

invisiblekid, UT has two DT's that will be Srs. One of two good points made by VolCR today is that they'll be very think if they don't shore that up with this class.

Hall and Sykes are UT placed JUCO's that will hopefully be ready by 09. I haven't seen any interest in JUCO DT's this year.

Posted by volmac72 on January 29, 2008 at 4:47 p.m. (Suggest removal)

One point, 5, 10, or 35???? when a team loses they lose. If a team is ahead 3 touchdowns only to give up three in the second half and ultimately lose is a certified a$$-kicking. So it really doesn't matter how many points a team gets beaten by they're just beat. And, that beating turns into a b*&^%-slap when the other lies down without a fight nor coaching strategy....fulmer's had a top 10 recruiting class since i was in college, STILL no SEC championships, no NCs, No heismans, just nothing.....maybe 8 or 9 wins and a cheap bowl no one remembers after Jan 5th!!

Posted by VOLS85 on January 29, 2008 at 4:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I think the true question here is "where is airforceone?" He is all things Kentucky, I'm sure he can explain his team's 23 game losing streak to us by saying that we steal kentucky's only decent recruits....

Posted by sjt18 on January 29, 2008 at 4:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)

So are you saying that the negative posters are wrong for highlighting the Bama and UF games? A loss is just a loss, right?... but then you kind of contradicted that didn't you?

Posted by bigbluevol on January 29, 2008 at 4:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)

UT has never had a heisman winner. Their best chance (Peyton) not winning had nothing to do with Fulmer. They also had Shuler who was a finalist. You don't like Fulmer. Join that club. Fulmer has had a chance to win the SEC three times in the last 7 years. He needs to get it done, but he's not the failure a lot of y'all make him out to be.

Posted by thesavageorange on January 29, 2008 at 4:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)

http://tennessee.rivals.com/viewprosp... Finally a little info and video on Hughes.Word is the Smyrna Coach turned CPF on to this kid after coaching the East West all-star game.He looks like a project who has good upside.

Posted by ATLVOL1 on January 29, 2008 at 4:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)

DAVIS COPLES AND MACKEY ARE ALL STILL ON THE BOARD, ALL 4* AND ALL FROM HARGRAVE. THIS WOULD BE A HUGE HOOKUP TO GET THE PACKAGE DEAL.

Posted by sjt18 on January 29, 2008 at 4:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Pretty sure Rivals has Davis as a 5*.

I've read that Mackey isn't a possibility any more... but maybe Coples and Davis could change his mind.

Posted by thesavageorange on January 29, 2008 at 5:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I think Mackey is going to Va Tech, but that is only my opinion.And yes Davis is a 5* on Rivals.

Posted by govols8080 on January 29, 2008 at 5:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Rivals has Bohannon as a top 5 sleeper in this recruiting class.

Posted by vol1994 on January 29, 2008 at 7:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I haven't had time to read all the posts to this article.
As I mentioned earlier a few days ago, Fulmer and coaches are surprised of the rejections they have received.

does anyone think these two guys were always on UT'S radar or are we settling? I am not a recruiting guru and do not pretend to know the difference b/t a 3** or 4**.

However, I do post my opinion from time to time
and the few facts I do receive such as the comment above about Fulmer being surprised of lack of commitments.

Posted by invisiblekid on January 29, 2008 at 7:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Thanks Savage O and SJT, just checking to make sure I hadn't missed somebody. I think Bolden and Williams will be OK, not great, next season, but beyond that is anyone's guess. And when it comes to defensive tackle, it's all a matter of depth or having a few players that can dominate.

Vol1994, I don't follow recruiting near as closely as some of these other guys, but it sure looks like we are settling at this point IMO. Recruiting is, in large part, a guessing game by most everyone involved IMO and I don't put too much stock in the number of stars a player has beside his name. Sometimes, there can be the difference of a tenth on a player's 40 time between being 3* and 4 *. What I usually look at is who else is recruiting a given player, not likely that 4-6 top coaches would be wrong about a kid. All that leads to my final point. Not saying the Vols aren't bringing in some talent, but it's a big difference from competing against the likes of LSU, USC, and GA for a recruit than the likes of KY, Ole Miss, and Wake Forest.

Posted by pdhuff on January 29, 2008 at 9:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Well said, invisible- Like I posted previously, I always look to see who we beat for a youngster. I don't put much stock in a "sleeper". They're sleepers for a reason that people backed off. Non-qualifiers make good conversation, but we need help on defense, now, not in 2009. Beat Bama, if they can. Whew. 33-31 from 28-20, dang.

Posted by utmdm on January 29, 2008 at 10:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

PD, my dish blanked for a while with all that wind. What did BP do to get the tech? It does look as though Lofton may be getting his shot back. The guys cannot seem to lock the loose balls when they get their hands on and it's bang there goes bumma down the court. Guys also are basking in themselves on the O side and not getting back on D.

Posted by sjt18 on January 30, 2008 at 12:17 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Invisiblekid, Other than depth, I think the DT's will be OK this year. Langley and Fisher look good behind Williams and Bolden. Nelson and Thomas... I don't know. Depends on how much weight they've been able to gain.

Posted by bigorangebolt on January 30, 2008 at 8:03 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Vol Fans:

You gotta to believe! Mountains will move and oceans part, it is great to be a Tennessee Volunteer! Let's make it happen on sigining day
and in wins next year!

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

utdmd 10:08 - man that wind was awesome. Blew ol' beagle to next farm. He came back for biscuits. Great win during a great wind here.
Beat whomever is next.

Posted by orangebloodgmc on January 30, 2008 at 11:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Any word yet from Jomarcus Savage?