Tennessee 2008 Football Preview

Tennessee.

Phillip Fulmer did the unthinkable and finally went outside of the "family" for his coaches this off-season. I wasn't a big fan of David Cutcliffe even though this offense managed to have the 2nd best passing yards in the SEC behind Erik Ainge. And I wasn't a big fan of Ainge even though he managed to have the third best passing efficiency in the SEC. He had -32 rushing yards on the year and the win over Georgia had nothing to do with his meager 165 yards and no scores. Take out the Arkansas St. and Kentucky games and there goes 11 of his TDs. Thus, I'm looking forward to seeing what new Offensive Coordinator and QB coach Dave Clawson can do with fourth-year junior quarterback Jonathan Crompton.

Good news for the Vols-- since the spring and the decision to curfew themselves, the team has not had any reported off-field incidents. Also good-- Arian Foster and Lucas Taylor at tailback and receiver, respectively. This offensive line gave up a total of 4 sacks last year. And even though this unit may be one of the best in the SEC if not the country, their position coach is not satisfied with their performance so far and I consider that the right attitude.

On defense, they were one of the worst teams in the SEC last year in several categories, especially when it came to passing yards and passing efficiency defense. Their rushing defense was down considerably too, with the exception of the fairy-tale game against Georgia. The linebackers and defensive backs look strong this year. So the question remains--how will this line be?