Rivalries are what make college sports. Yes, there are arguments to be made about passion, love of the game, the fans, and tradition, but the rivalries have components present from each of those reasons. As fans of college sports, the passion for the teams we adore is rivaled only by the disdain for those teams we despise. Sports are wonderful because of all the good they can bring, the underdog stories, teaching hard work paying off, the psychology and strategy of the game, the history, the chance to let the rest of the world fall away until the clock hits zero, and the opportunity to pour out all the emotions normally held so tightly under control. The rivalries offer another opportunity though, a chance to pour out the hate and ill will we all feel into another team. No one gets hurt, we are able to continue on as good people in all other times, and we fans can get it out of our system in a way people understand. These reasons are all part of the reasons we become invested in and enjoy sports, but the rivalries, the big games, are always the ones we love best. Try as they might, professional sports simply cannot stoke their rivalries to the levels of hatred in college sports. Rivalry Weekend, and the various rivalry games throughout the year, are simply the most fun. A huge part of what makes them so special is the history, and that is one of the saddest parts of the recent realignments in college football; the deaths of great rivalries. Texas and Texas A&M, Oklahoma and Nebraska, Nebraska and Colorado, West Virginia and Pitt, Michigan State and Notre Dame, these are just a few of the storied rivalries that we have seen go by the wayside in the last few seasons. Rivalries in college sports are special, and with so many going away, we need to preserve what we have and bring back those games when we have the chance. This is precisely why Memphis Athletic Director Tom Bowen and Tennessee Athletic Director Phillip Fulmer need to get the University of Memphis and the University of Tennessee competing against each other, every season, in all sports, again. Such good, clean hatred shouldn't go to waste. Life has seen me live all over the state of Tennessee, growing up in the mountains of East Tennessee, spending a few years living in Memphis in the Western part of the state, and currently residing in Nashville in the Mid-State. The time spent in Memphis opened my eyes to a different portion of the rivalry, and started the wheels turning on reasons the games should come back. There are far more pros than cons for each school all around, and hopefully this reasoning sees the two schools agree to restart the various series. Both schools would benefit from having nationally televised games in football and men's basketball when they played one another. Bad Memphis and Tennessee teams would at worst be televised on the SEC Network, while had the two teams met on the gridiron during the 2016 season, it would likely have been a matchup ESPN sought out as a primetime game across the nation, a battle of two Top 25 teams. The Memphis football program is currently enjoying the most successful stretch in the history of the program, started by former coach Justin Fuente and now continued by Mike Norvell. The Tigers have beaten some highly ranked opponents in the last four years, including some SEC opponents and UCLA this past season. Jeremy Pruitt even sniped a coach from the Memphis staff in new Wide Receivers' Coach David Johnson. The Tigers are a genuinely good football team, and at various points over the last five seasons, would likely have been favored against the Vols. A game against Memphis would be another quality opponent for the Vols, and a win over Tennessee is always huge for Memphis. In football, these two teams playing each season just makes sense for national exposure. These two teams playing in basketball makes even more sense than in football. Yes, this would also be a nationally televised game that would be given a lot of attention, even though the Tigers have been a bit down in the last few seasons. Yes, Tennessee is entering the upcoming basketball season as one of the favorites to contend for a National Title. Yes, this is a rivalry that makes sense publicity wise, but none of these are the biggest reason this game needs to come back, or why it would draw national eyes. This game needs to return because in basketball, these two teams flat do not like each other. Sure it was John Calipari and Bruce Pearl at the time, but these two teams hated each other's guts, and it showed on the floor and between the fans. The entire country loves to watch those games, when it is evident that more is on the line, and clear that no one in the building likes anyone in the other color. This is a game that benefits both teams in their RPI, the winner leaves with a quality win, but all that is secondary to how good it feels to knock off a team you loathe. And don't take my word for it, look up interviews of former basketball players from both teams talking about the series. They don't hold back. Good games, helping strength of schedule, national coverage, and exciting the fans are all well and good, but ADs like Fulmer and Bowen need to feel like they are coming out ahead in reviving this series. They need to be able to look at this arrangement and feel that there is something overwhelmingly positive for their school from this deal. Keeping that in mind, let's take a look first at what the Vols gain from scheduling the Tigers again each season. In football, Tennessee may actually stand to gain the most from this series coming back, and they can maximize that potential if they played the Tigers at the Liberty Bowl every season, rather than alternating to Neyland Stadium. The reasons for this are manifold, but one of the biggest is this; there is an enormous Tennessee fan base and alumni group in Memphis. Actually, there are a huge number of current UT students. The University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center is located right in the middle of Memphis, with buildings on Union and Madison Avenues. These are parts of UT's Medical, Pharmacy, Dental, Nursing, PT, PA, and Dental Hygenist Programs. That means that along with a huge base of alumni in Memphis, there is a large population of current UT students all over four hundred miles away from Knoxville that almost never get to see the Vols compete. As a result, you see instances like the last matchup in football between the Vols and Tigers, where both teams entered at 2-6, and yet the Liberty Bowl was full and overwhelmingly orange. Playing the games each year in Memphis allows a large Volunteer fan base an opportunity to see their team, all while turning a rival's home stadium into Neyland Stadium West. That is a powerful show, both to the nation and to recruits, the other reason the Vols need to start playing Memphis in football again. Not to mention, wouldn't you rather see the Vols and Tigers play instead of UTEP, Utah State, Ohio, Southern Miss, or Western Kentucky? No disrespect to those programs, but as a fan, if the Vols have a non conference game outside the Power 5, at least bring in a team there is some animosity with. Jeremy Pruitt has already taken steps to recruit more in Memphis than the Vols have in a long time. While Memphis may be, “In State,” for Tennessee, high school athletes in Memphis are closer to Arkansas, Ole Miss, Mississippi State, Auburn, Alabama, Vanderbilt, LSU, and Missouri than Tennessee, and those are just the SEC schools. While Memphis may reside in Tennessee, the distance has put the Vols at a disadvantage recruiting in the area, a hot bed of talent, for a long time. By renewing an annual feud with Memphis, and playing in the Bluff City, the Vols would create a regular presence in the city that would feel like a Tennessee home game in most seasons, expose Memphis area recruits to the Vols every year starting at a young age, and allow them to know that once a season they would have an opportunity to play in front of their friends and family. This recruiting boon, the service to West Tennessee fans, adding another quality opponent to the schedule, and helping the Vols show their influence as the flagship University of the entire state of Tennessee should be enough to make football make sense. In regards to basketball, that series should resume but as a home and home. The fans of both schools despised one another so much during the height of this series that two extremely impressive venues for college basketball, the FedEx Forum and Thompson Boling Arena, need to each play their part in this series. As to why Tennessee should schedule Memphis in basketball, it is pretty simple, the Vols really don't have a multitude of great basketball rivals, and essentially none outside of the SEC. Bringing back the contest against Memphis and stoking the bad blood between the teams should be relatively easy. Both teams have room to adjust a non conference schedule, and both teams have an opportunity to add a quality opponent. As in football, the increased presence should help Tennessee and Rick Barnes recruit the Memphis area in basketball, all while providing another quality opponent for the Vols, particularly if the Tigers return to traditional form on the hardwood under new coach Penny Hardaway. Also, similar to football, wouldn't you rather see the Vols and Tigers in an annual home and home rather than games against even NC State or Wake Forest? Looking at a renewal of this series for Mike Norvell and his football Tigers, the rewards are obvious. As a team in the AAC, a win over an SEC team is an enormous plus on the resume. The Tigers have a seriously good football team, this season replacing Riley Ferguson, now departed for the NFL, who replaced Paxton Lynch, also in the NFL. Replacing a star QB isn't easy, but the Tigers have already managed it once. If they manage it again Norvell will be at the helm of a team that will contend for the AAC Title again and will likely spend some time in the Top 25 again as well. The Tigers believe they can beat the Vols in football, and are itching for a chance to prove it. A game against Tennessee means the national spotlight for the Tigers, and it also means a full Liberty Bowl, and that revenue is big whether the fans wear blue or orange. All of this pales in comparison to what a win over Tennessee, not just an SEC team, but the Vols specifically, would mean to the Tigers. If there is any doubt of the value such a win holds to the Tiger faithful, simply ask about the 1996 matchup. (Apologies for bringing that up again Vol fans, but it is relevant to the topic.) For Memphis, this would be one of if not the biggest game on their schedule each season, and the hype and exposure surrounding the game would likely help both schools in recruiting. For Penny Hardaway's Tigers, a matchup with the Vols on the hardwood represents an opportunity to return to form. The Vols under Rick Barnes are currently viewed as one of the favorites to contend for a National Title, and as long as Barnes is the coach for the Vols there will be expectations to make an impact on the national stage. Hardaway is currently trying to rebuild an extremely proud basketball program in a city that lives and breaths Tiger basketball. While everyone around the program feels Hardaway is up to the task, conference realignment has left Memphis with less in the way of rivalries already infused with venom or top tier opponents. A renewal of hostilities with the Vols would provide the Tigers' new coach with both, as well as serious national exposure. Vol Nation would be well represented in FedEx Forum, but the Tigers would have a clear home court advantage. It would provide Hardaway a showcase game for his team, their fans, and their facilities, as well as a measuring stick game for his team during the rebuild. Furthermore, it gives him a game to circle that his team can work for, can highlight, and pour extra into when they face a hated rival. It would rekindle the fire in the players and the fan base, something Hardaway desperately needs entering his first season. While this series returning would be a win for both programs in both sports as well as a win for the city and high school athletes of Memphis, the biggest winners would be the fans. Both fan bases want the basketball series to return, and while the Tennessee football fans are a bit divided, the Memphis fans want this football game. As someone who had the opportunity to attend the last Memphis versus Tennessee football game, my friends and I walked from my apartment, up Central Avenue to the Liberty Bowl, I can attest that the game that night was special. Yes, it was a pair of 2-6 teams, but the stadium was packed with Vol and Tiger fans alike. I saw many Tennessee fans taking their children to their first game, all because they had an opportunity to actually make a game. Many Vol fans in East and Middle Tennessee may take the proximity and ease of attending a game in Knoxville for granted. That was only a situation I shared for a few seasons, but the weight of that game, which happened to be the first for my little sister, was not lost on me. This is a rivalry near to my heart, it is good for the entirety of Vol Nation, and benefits both schools on and off the field. And it is an excuse for some healthy animosity, and to sing Rocky Top at the top of your lungs down Beale Street when the Vols knocked off the then Number One Tigers (I regret nothing). Mr. Bowen, Mr. Fulmer, let's make this happen.

2021 QB Aaron McLaughlin at The Nike Opening Regional in Atlanta of March 2017 (8th Grade Year) Though many Volunteer fans may not know much about Aaron, he will surely gather their attention soon. McLaughlin, 2021 QB out of Buford High School (GA) burst on the scene very young with a combination of size and talent unmatched by most peers his own age and older. Measuring in the 6'5" 225lb range his size is certainly eye grabbing. Once on the field it was easy to see his talent was well enough to match his body. Erik Richards of The All-American Bowl put his stamp on Aaron early on and he has not disappointed yet. It was not long before the offers began rolling in. Auburn, Michigan, USC, S. Carolina, Ole Miss, UGA are just some of the teams to offer the rising sophomore. Over the weekend Aaron made his first trip Knoxville for an unofficial visit and I got with Aaron to find out how it went. McLaughlin said this was his first visit to check out Tennessee but he was very impressed. "Regarding the facilities, I was blown away. I didn't think they would be that nice" was the response he gave in regards to his thoughts of facilities and overall campus assessment. McLaughlin spent a good portion of the day with Coach Helton watching film and building a relationship. Speaking of relationships, two other coaches that Aaron also has solid relationships with are Coach Lewis and Coach Sunseri. It was made clear that love from the coaches was surely felt and they were as impressed with McLaughlin as he was to the visit. "I definitely could see myself in Knoxville, they are for sure one of my top schools now" is a statement that should make all Vol fans smile just a bit. Giving the fact that McLaughlin is only going into the 10th grade, it should be nice to know that a projected top 5 QB in the 2021 class is thinking highly of the Vols. Tennessee has not seen the luxury of a prototypical big frame, solid arm QB since when, Tyler Bray? So how did the visit end? It ended with the 2021 QB announcing he has received yet another offer and this one coming from The Big Orange of Tennessee! I'm sure it will not be long before McLaughlin is swamped by UT fans showing their extreme passion and love for prospects considering their beloved Vols. For Vol fans who want to check out the 2021 QB's Freshman Varsity Highlight's, the link is below.. http://www.hudl.com/v/27y7wN Article by: Dale Dowden

Entering the 2018 season there may be no word that sums up this edition of the Tennessee Volunteers more than, “Change.” Head Coach, Athletic Director, Assistant Coaches, new arrivals, graduates, new schemes, new philosophies, new positions, the list goes on and on. For these Volunteers there is very little in the way of familiarity as they enter the upcoming season. Then again, after the way the 2017 campaign went, massive changes are probably just what this team needs. The best thing about change is that it heralds something new. For many of the players on the Tennessee roster, it heralds new opportunities. Thanks to the massive philosophical shift the Vols underwent this past off season, some young players as well as some more veteran guys are going to come into 2018 with an opportunity to explode on to the SEC scene and shine. This article will take a look at five players that should have breakout campaigns in 2018. 1. Dominick Wood-Anderson, TE Wood-Anderson is arriving on campus for the Volunteers as the number one JUCO tight end in the 2018 recruiting class, as well as one of the best JUCO players overall in 2018. At six foot five, two hundred fifty five pounds, Wood-Anderson is a freak athlete at the tight end spot. His speed is stunning for his size, and his highlight tape from the JUCO ranks is eye popping. This young man is the odds on favorite to lock down the job as the starting tight end for the Vols, and the tape makes it easy to see why. As a Junior College All American, Wood-Anderson regularly displayed exceptional speed from the tight end spot, while running sharp routes that look more in line with a good wide receiver, and displaying stellar hands. Wood-Anderson is an adequate in line blocker, something Tight End Coach Brian Niedermeyer will push him to improve, but as a receiver, he is capable of breaking games open. Playing within the offense that Tyson Helton wants to run, and likely being a target for a young quarterback in Jarret Guarantano, expect Wood-Anderson to see plenty of targets as he can be both a security blanket as well as dynamic playmaker. If the Vols find success in the 2018 season, expect this new face at tight end to have made serious contributions and a name for himself to boot. 2. Eric Crosby, DT Crosby was rated a four star defensive tackle when he came to Tennessee from Virginia Beach. He arrived with high expectations for his future in Knoxville, as well as his own ZIP Code, as Crosby is simply a huge human being. After redshirting in 2017, Crosby looks to make an impact for the Vols in 2018, and in spite of being listed as an offensive lineman on the Orange and White Game roster, Crosby is more likely to make that impact for the Vols on the defensive line. Shy Tuttle has shown incredible heart in his career with the Vols, playing well when he was healthy. Unfortunately for Tuttle and Tennessee, his time on Rocky Top has been hampered by multiple, serious injuries. While all Big Orange fans want to see the senior have a superb season and shine in a healthy campaign, the fact remains that he has been prone to injury, and the Vols sorely lack options to play Nose Tackle in Jeremy Pruitt's 3-4 defense if that happens. Perhaps the strongest candidate to replace Tuttle if he is hurt, or simply to spell him in the rotation, is Crosby. After studying Crosby's tape, one is left with the impression that if he ever gets on the field, Tennessee's coaches are going to have a difficult time getting him off of it. He just has the feel of a player that is ready to make an impact when he gets an opportunity. Due to Tennessee's lack of depth at the nose, and Crosby's motor and strength, don't be surprised to hear this young man's name called often when he finally gets his chance on the field. 3. Greg Emerson, Lineman Greg Emerson was recruited heavily by all the national powers in the 2018 recruiting cycle, despite suffering a serious injury before his Senior season in high school. The Jackson, Tennessee product was a five star defensive lineman and one of the jewels of Tennessee's 2018 recruiting class. Emerson is another player that is yet to have been named to a permanent home on the roster, playing offensive line in the Orange and White Game, like Eric Crosby. Also like Crosby, it is difficult to envision Emerson staying put at offensive guard with the incredible potential his tape shows on the defensive line. Many feel that Crosby and Emerson played on offense this spring due to a lack of bodies in that group for the Vols, and it certainly is difficult to see Jeremy Pruitt allowing such a versatile defensive lineman to play on the other side of the ball. Emerson is talented enough that he is going to make an immediate impact wherever he lines up for Tennessee this fall, but his highest ceiling would appear to be on the defensive line. In Emerson, Pruitt and defensive coordinator Kevin Sherrer are getting a guy that has the size and skill to play any position, in any defensive front they choose to run. Emerson certainly looks the part of a prototypical 3-4 defensive end, something that is hard to come by in college football. He also posses the speed to play on the edge of a 4-3, and the strength to play defensive tackle in a four man front. While a bit undersized to be a traditional nose tackle, Emerson shows the strength and hand technique to play that position as well if called on to do so. When picturing the expectation of a Jeremy Pruitt Guy, Greg Emerson is one of the players that keeps coming to mind. This young man is simply too good not to get on the field somewhere for the Vols this fall, and he will open eyes when he does get there. 4. Darrel Taylor, OLB What Tennessee fan isn't excited to see what this explosive Virginian can do coming off the edge in Pruitt's defense? It just feels right, like a perfect match, doesn't it? Taylor is a natural pass rusher and an intense, high energy guy. He only knows one way to play, as hard as he can, something you might expect from the man that coined the WGWTFA hashtag at the Battle at Bristol. Taylor got himself in trouble at times last season, but it was often part of the intensity he played with. In Pruitt, Taylor now has a coach that is going to encourage that intensity, rely on him to blow plays up , especially as a pass rusher, but is also going to aim it and develop it. Jeremy Pruitt is not a man that will tolerate stupid penalties or mental mistakes, even if they are born from playing hard. That attitude and direction from his coach is exactly what Taylor needs, and as he moves into a role on the field he looks to be perfect for, expect to see Taylor's new coaches push the young man to focus more intensely on pursuing the finer points of his craft while teaching him to focus that passion and intensity. A healthy Darrel Taylor this season is a guy capable of making plays that change the entire complexion of games for the Vols. 5. Ty Chandler, RB Here's the big one, the guy that the country had better not sleep on. Ty Chandler is going to be the central pillar that the Tennessee offense is built around. Tyson Helton's offense looks to target explosive passes after establishing the run. Jeremy Pruitt is going to want to control the tempo of games by controlling the clock, thus protecting his defense, by running the football. He wants to develop Tennessee into a hard nosed, physical, football team. All of those goals are dependent on having a quality running back, and folks, in Chandler, the Vols have a good one. There will be a lot asked of Ty Chandler this year and a lot rolled on to his shoulders, but everything to this point shows he is up to the challenge of shouldering that load. Chandler may be smaller than what Pruitt wants to see at Tennessee long term, but he runs hard between the tackles and is happy to initiate serious contact. Chandler runs bigger than he is, and with bad intentions when he meets defenders. Ty Chandler is going to be the bell cow for these Vols, and that should put a smile on the faces of those in Big Orange Nation. While Chandler is a dangerous receiver out of the backfield and a weapon in the return game, what can make him so electric for Tennessee in 2018 is his ability to turn any given touch into a touchdown. Chandler has breath taking speed, and any crack he is given can go from a six yard gain to a sixty yard score in a blink. Another year in the weight room is only going to further Chandler's physical development, and in an offense that is going to allow him to use his speed attacking downhill more, rather than his first step always being a lateral one, expect to see the Nashville product turn some routine plays into explosive ones. The 2018 Vols are going to go as Ty Chandler goes, and though the pressure is significant on number three, Tennessee fans should feel confident in the sophomore's ability to shoulder that load. And there you have it, a look at five players that should burst onto the scene for the Volunteers in the 2018 season. If a player may have been overlooked or someone should be on the radar of Vol fans that isn't listed here, feel free to share it in the comments.

He slips your mind sometimes. Future generations of Vols fans will more than likely have no clue who he was or why we hired him. He was the Tennessee basketball coach during the 2013-14 season. Tennessee had recently been through some turmoil before deciding to hire Donnie Tyndall. Before Tyndall, our former head coach Cuonzo Martin, had just recently dipped and left Tennessee for the University of California because fans turned on him trying to have him removed and Bruce Pearl brought back by starting an online petition. Which before Bruce Pearl was let go for lying to the NCAA for having a BBQ, so you would think after all that Tennessee would make sure their next hire was the safe and right hire? Well if you thought that's what Tennessee would do, you thought WRONG, because they decided to do the opposite. They hired an used car salesmen with a 400 pair sneaker collection who now is currently serving a NCAA imposed 10 year show cause penalty that will be effective until the ripe time of April 7, 2026. If this wasn't a home run hire, I don't want to see one. Looking back it's nothing to worry about considering we have a coach who has us preseason top 5 that is undoubtedly a much better and more honest coach than Bruce Pearl and Donnie Tyndall combined. But how did we get here? And who exactly is Donnie Tyndall and where did he come from? Well young Donald was born in the small town of Ravenna, Michigan. With a population of just 1,219 the odds were stack against young Donald but that didn't stop him. Tyndall the one year head coach of led St. Catharine during the 1996-97 season to its first ever trip to the National Junior College Athletic Association National Tournament, and in order to get there they had to defeat the ever so terrifying defending champs, Sullivan College of Louisville. This was a battle they would be talking about for ages to come. By leading his team to the tournament Donnie became the youngest head coach to lead his team to the championship in Junior College history. His legendary story had already began to unfold. Greatness was upon the horizon for young Donald. Nothing would stand in his way. He soon after was named the 1997 Junior College basketball coach of the year. The fact is despite all his achievements and upcoming success this is a man he decided to follow all he had done by having coaches take tests for kids, and well here is a good example of some of Donald's fine work: A real super star if there ever was one. I never understood the hire from the first move. Donnie had average success at Moorehead State, and slightly above average success at Southern Miss. Obviously his hire was a rush hire, because despite our fans protesting, nobody expected Cuonzo to leave, especially after his recent Elite 8 appearance. I personally was a huge fan of Cuonzo and tho his offensive was about as exciting to watch as an amateur golf match, I still had high hopes for him here at Tennessee. I will admit at first glance I did laugh a little at Donnie, and part of me has to feel kind of bad for the guy, but then I remind myself of the kids he negativity effected by cheating them out of a chance of a real education by letting them take short cuts and not do their required work. People want to hate on Millennials, but it's people like this man, why their bad reputation exists. Currently Donnie Tyndall is currently suing the NCAA claiming his innocence. Blaming a man name Howard and claiming he had nothing to do with the whole ordeal. I personally don't buy it, but crazier things have happened. An undisclosed source on 60 minutes claim's he was the "Mastermind" behind the whole thing, and he has no one to blame but himself. Tyndall was also caught trying to delete and destroy information as the investigation was on going. He is a hot mess of a human being. We have to, at least some what, consider ourselves blessed he was only here a year, who knows what damage he could have done had he spent 2, 3, 4, or more seasons here at Tennessee. Tennessee is now on a much different path than we were with Donnie Tyndall. We are projecting upwards while he is going down. Now I can't hold to much hate for the man considering he never got Tennessee in any kind of trouble, but I do believe he would had given the chance, and it was only a matter of time. Given the recent trend we can expect to see him coach in the SEC once he returns. He will join the ranks of Bruce Pearl (Auburn) and Cuonzo Marin (Missouri) of former Tennessee coaches to end up coaching against us instead of with us. But more than likely he will never coach again, and I would put bank on that fact. It's refreshing to go look back on these days, because just two years ago we thought Tennessee basketball was in worse shape than the football program at the end of the Dooley days, and that's saying something. Times have changed and Tennessee could be called a favorite to be a number 1 seed in the NCAA tournament this year with all the players the Vols have returning. This year should be fun if your a Vols fan, but not so much if you're a Donnie Tyndall fan...

In an earlier article, the Volunteers' Offensive Line was highlighted as the group that will be the key for this team's success, as well as for future versions of the Vols. That unit is one that looks to benefit enormously from Jeremy Pruitt's new attitude toward this team, as well as Tyson Helton's more pro style, power run, offensive scheme. While the offensive line stands to benefit the most, and could potentially become a strength for the team if they remain healthy, there is another group of players that stand to benefit dramatically from these changes: The Tight Ends and Fullbacks. This is how dramatic the shift from the previous system is, under Butch Jones the Vols didn't even have a Fullback. Now, along with the Tight Ends, this group offers enough to believe the Tennessee offense can surprise teams this fall. Tight Ends and Fullbacks are different positions filled by players with similar skill sets. In modern college football, most players in one of these roles is going to be asked to play in some form of the other position at one point or another. For the purposes of this analysis and how Tennessee is likely to use the players at their disposal, think of this position group collectively more as H Backs. In the Orange and White game, Tennessee fans saw a sight that has long been missing from the Vols, an I Formation as a staple on offense. This return to a traditional, more power type offense is not only something Tennessee fans have clamored for, it is something that is part of the history and identity of Tennessee football. Furthermore, it is a return to more fundamental football. Play great defense, run the ball well, throw off play action, be physical, be balanced, be efficient, and don't turn the ball over. Teams that do those things tend to win a lot of football games, and they have done so in every era of the sport. Everything about Jeremy Pruitt, from his attitude, to the coaches he hired, to the systems he has been putting in place, points to him wanting to mold Tennessee into a program that embodies those fundamentals. And nowhere is that going to be felt more strongly than in the way these H Back players are used and the return of that I Formation offense. As we saw in the Orange and White Game, Tennessee looks ready to let Ty Chandler and Tim Jordan set the tone on offense while setting the table for everything else the Vols are going to do. Ty Helton appears to want to build this offense around the success of power running plays designed to go between the tackles. While Chandler may not have the size of Jordan or incoming graduate transfer Madre London, he showed last season that he is not afraid of running inside, and that he will not hesitate to feed a shoulder pad to an opposing defender. Chandler's explosive speed also means that when he is presented with a crack in the defense, even a slight one, he can take it all the way. That means that it will be imperative the Vols protect him and put quality blockers ahead of him. Furthermore, to get the most out of his incredible talents, Tennessee needs to come up with someone able to make those holes for Chandler, to make a hole where there isn't one, and to wall off a last chance defender allowing him to make the most of his opportunities. In Ty Helton's system, that player is going to be the fullback. If the Volunteers are going to give up the opportunity to have an additional tight end or wide receiver on the field, then they are going to have to get their money's worth from the fullback position. That means finding a player that has the size and strength to be an impact run blocker, the speed to lead plays and make blocks at the second and third level, the football I.Q. to identify who his back most needs him to pick up, and the hands to be an able receiver out of the backfield when called upon. Playing fullback also requires a certain attitude. It takes a player that loves contact, a guy that is as excited as delivering a crushing block to a pursuing linebacker as the fans are about the long runs in creates. For the team that Tennessee wants to become, it ideally requires a player that becomes a Hole Factory. Some factories make brakes, some make toothbrushes, but the Vols need a fullback that simply makes holes every time he is called upon. For a team that didn't field a true fullback last season, that may seem like a tall order, however, the Vols may already have just the man for the job on the roster already. Austin Pope is a redshirt sophomore from Knoxville. When he committed to the Vols it was to play as a Tight End, and while he will certainly see work at that position this fall, he could see work as the primary fullback for the Vols. In the Orange and White Game, Pope played with the first team offense, playing plenty of tight end, but also playing fullback when the Vols shifted to the I Formation. For a player that was billed as more of a receiving tight end, Pope made a few really nice blocks in the running game, one of those springing Ty Chandler for a long run when Pope met, then walled off, Quarte Sapp in the hole. Making those solid blocks will be what gets a player the nod to take over at fullback for the Vols, but Pope showed the other dimension he can add to the offense in the spring game as well. On a misdirection play, Pope leaked out of the backfield and was hit with a pass from Jarret Guarantano. Pope caught the pass and immediately turned it upfield. He ran through several defenders and fought his way down to the one yard line, very nearly scoring on the play. That kind of physical nature as a receiver makes Pope a nice fit for what the Vols need, all while providing the versatility to play at multiple spots. Versatility is going to be a theme for this group of Vols, and few guys will embody that word more than redshirt freshman LaTrell Bumphus. Bumphus is a player that both the previous and current coaching staffs have had difficulty in finding a side of the ball for, let alone a single position. Bumphus has excellent size and is a special athlete. When you look at his high school tape or see him on the field for the Vols, it is hard to believe a guy of his size can move like he does. Listed as a tight end for the White team this spring, Bumphus played essentially the same role as Pope did for the Orange team, lining up as a traditional tight end, and serving as the primary fullback. Bumphus is more raw than Pope, a more polished looking tight end. Bumphus is more of an athlete the Vols have worked to find a home for, that may just be the perfect fit at fullback. Bumphus is more physical than Pope, and that could likely translate into being a more aggressive lead blocker in the run game. While he has some catching up to do with Pope's contributions to the passing game, Bumphus is a big body with plenty of ability once the ball reaches him. This contrast of styles and the ensuing position battle could be an interesting one for the Vols, with the winner possibly showing more of what Pruitt and Helton want the offense to be long term. Pope and Bumphus can both contribute for the Vols as receiving tight ends, but their opportunities to see the field often likely run through their ability to contribute at fullback as well. The Vols have a few players that look to get on the field more often as more prototypical tight ends on this roster, and one of them is a new face in Knoxville. At 6 foot 5 inches and 255 pounds, Dominick Wood-Anderson is an absolute freak athlete. Wood-Anderson is simply faster than a player his size has any right to be. He runs routes and moves with the fluidity of a wide receiver, has stunning speed for his size, and is happy to initiate contact once he has the ball. Wood-Anderson has room to improve his in line blocking, something Jeremy Pruitt and tight ends coach Brian Niedermeyer will demand of him, but there is a reason this young man was a Junior College All American and one of the most sought after JUCO players, number 1 rated TE, in this cycle. The reason is that Wood-Anderson is a game breaker at the tight end position. Wood-Anderson is the guy everyone expects to win the job as Tennessee's starting tight end, and any questions to why can be directed to his highlight film. In a group of players that Tennessee can manufacture some offense with by creating and exploiting match up problems due to the overall versatility of the group as a whole, Wood-Anderson is the match up nightmare opposing defensive coordinators are going to sweat over. When he arrives on campus, Wood-Anderson will be a solid blocker in the run game, which will ensure.he stays on the field, but when he is called on as a receiver he can shine. For a defensive coordinator, who do you cover him with? Wood-Anderson is too fast for even most SEC linebackers to cover one on one, and even if a corner can stay with him, his size and strength mean he is likely to box the smaller defenders out for the ball and break many attempts to tackle him. That leaves covering him with a safety, but Wood-Anderson runs such good routes and has such speed that even good safeties will have difficulty in taking him away in space. Pair that skillset with Jauan Jennings and Marquez Callaway on the edges and a running game featuring Ty Chandler, and the caliber of weapon Wood-Anderson is comes into focus. Dominick Wood-Anderson allows Ty Helton to stay in his base personnel and make the defense wrong however they try to stop the Vols. Load up to stop Chandler with an extra safety in run support? A quick out or slant to Wood-Anderson can become a 30 yard gain in a heartbeat, or a play action pass on a post could end up a touchdown. Play back and double Jennings or Callaway? Helton can line Wood-Anderson up to the side of the double team to gain a favorable matchup by forcing the defense to show the double on the receiver, pull the safety off to take Wood-Anderson, leaving a receiver one on one, or try to cover Wood-Anderson with a linebacker or backside safety. Play an extra DB, two safeties high, taking away the down field passing game? Helton will be content to run Ty Chandler into a light bow with Wood-Anderson serving as another capable blocker for the dynamic back. Wood-Anderson is a chess piece when it comes to matchups, but his presence on the field in a base offensive set is one opponents must respect for how dangerous he is. That flexibility and balance contribute to what can make Tennessee effective on offense this season, and Wood-Anderson might be the best example among the best group to demonstrate that. Another player that should be expected to help the Vols at tight end this season is Eli Wolfe. The younger brother of four year starter for Tennessee Ethan Wolfe, Eli has shown some promise as a receiving tight end, particularly in this season's spring game. Wolfe is a smooth athlete at the position, with good hands that runs solid routes. He is more of pure tight end, able to be flexed out away from the formation at times, and unsurprisingly, reminds most that see him of his brother in how he plays the position. Wolfe has the talent to contribute for the Vols, but winning the job as the number one tight end will be a tall order against Wood-Anderson. Still, expect to see Tennessee use more two tight end sets this year, meaning Wolfe will get his shot to impact games as a receiver, almost certainly by being a player guaranteed a one on one matchup with a defender. Wolfe has enough talent to win those opportunities and make defenses pay, making him a sneaky weapon for this offense. Sneaky weapons could be the best way to describe this entire group of athletes for Tennessee. It simply isn't expected by defenses to see a fullback or tight end break games open, but that is precisely what this group of players can do for Tennessee. Tyson Helton wants to run a pro style, balanced offense. He won't be looking to go fast all the time, but don't be shocked to see the Vols go no huddle regularly, just to keep a defensive grouping they like their chances against on the field. Let me illustrate it this way, on a third and short, the Vols could line up with two tight ends, a fullback, a running back, and one wide receiver. This personnel grouping screams that a run play is coming. The Vols could pick up a first down, go no huddle, and without substituting, line up in the shotgun with three receivers on the field. How? Wood-Anderson clearly has the ability to split out wide and play like a wide receiver if asked. Similarly, Eli Wolfe is very capable of flexing off the line, out to the slot, playing as a tight end in space. That would allow Austin Pope to move from fullback in the previous set up to be the in line tight end in the new alignment. This means the Vols could go no huddle, catch a team with a goal line defense on the field, pick up a first down, and attack that same heavy package the next play with multiple guys as receivers. That type of versatility and balance within the offensive scheme allows Helton to use his formations and personnel groups as chess pieces. It gives a bright, offensvie mind the opportunity to change things up and manufacture offense, yards, and favorable matchups. Don't mistake how valuable this opportunity can be for the Vols, as the balance this group affords Tennessee can't be overstated. A single shift, man in motion, or position shift can allow these Vols to completely change the matchups, tendencies, and defensive thought processes they see, and allow them to turn around and break those tendencies without sacrificing efficacy. For an offensive coordinator like Helton, this balance is going to translate into points by allowing him to always make the defense wrong, to keep opponents guessing, and to get easy plays for his quarterbacks and running backs. There is no doubt that much has changed for the Vols under Jeremy Pruitt, but perhaps the biggest is the attitude felt towards the coaches. Under Butch Jones, the Vols wewere going to stay within their system on offense. It was going to look very similar, and you could count on roughly the same things coming no matter what. Under Pruitt and Helton, the Vols will be a team that looks to manufacture offense from creative looks and by dictating personnel mismatches. The players looked at here are the pieces that allow these coaches to do those things and find different ways to attack a defense while keeping it off balance. If the Vols surprise people this year, then it will be in part due to contributions made by this group of versatile, sneaky players and the clever coaches that utilize their skills.

John Kelly was one of the only bright spots from our beloved Tennessee football team last year. With his grit, gut and grind, he pulled our team through the hardest and toughest season ever to be a Tennessee fan or player. He made all of us proud. Moments when you though he had nothing left he could always dig an extra ounce out for his pride and the T. There isn't a bad thing to be said about this man, and it seemed as soon as we hired Pruitt it seemed him staying would be a lock, and he would be a key cornerstone to gap to the future between the old regime and the new. Sadly tho, John Kelly decided to leave his beloved University and take his talents to the NFL. And if I'm being honest he couldn't of made a better decision. He will fit in like a glove at the high powered offense lead by Todd Gurley, and head coach Sean McVay. He will be the relief Gurley needs, and having someone like Gurley will help keep Kelly healthy. I for see a very successful NFL career for John Kelly, but that's for another article at another time. As I said before it was almost a shock to hear John Kelly was leaving after this past year. Only rushing for 778 yards and 9 touchdowns are not the kind of numbers that go high in the NFL draft. Comparatively Rashaad Penny from SDSU lead the NCAA with 2027 yards, and the number one back taken, Saquon Barkley, rushed for 1134 yards ranking him 33rd overall. It's safe to say John Kelly fell well below the 33rd rank, and we will leave it at that. So with a new coach who was sure to get more out of his players, produce a more consistent offense that would surely prepare players better for the NFL, why would he leave? Bad blood? Something to do with the weed related charge, and maybe some off field issues? I'll answer those first. No and No. John Kelly, despite one incident, was a model student athlete, and if I have to be honest for a second, if I had to hear Butch Jones try to motivate me every day I might feel the need to take a toke of the ol' Texas Tea as well. His cliches from a fans perspective were enough for a life time. It's funny, without even realizing it, John Kelly has more in common with Alvin Kamara than we see at first glance. I'm not referring to their personality, or physical appearance. It goes a bit deeper than that. Both these men were staples in an era of inconsistency. They are two players we can hang our hats on despite all the drama of the Butch Jones era. Both players at one point ended up in a system that they were not fit/going to be fit for. Some people tend to forget before Kamara chose Tennessee he picked Alabama. And if you go and read some of the message boards Alabama fans don't have to many kind things to say about Kamara and his departure. Kamara would of never been the type of back that "fit" in at Alabama, just like John Kelly would of only hurt himself by staying here putting him in a similar situation as Kamara at Alabama. John Kelly is not a big back, and placing him in a system like Pruitts there is a chance he might not of fit in well, injured himself, or hurt his draft stock further. Kelly had nothing to gain by staying and everything to lose by doing so, and I'm sure he and Pruitt both agreed. Pruitt is the kind of coach that will put players in the NFL. You know Pruitt would love to have Kelly, but I think they both have to do what's best for Kelly. He put his work in, put the world on his shoulders, and even more. Kelly has earned his stripes as a #VolforLife the hard way. He has nothing left to prove... Not at this level. He is NFL bound, and it seems a kid from Detroit, MI is finally getting his dues. He is in the beautiful state of California and his grass, and bank account are looking greener than they ever have before. God bless you John Kelly, and good luck this year in the NFL. We will all be rooting for you.

I had wanted to offer Tennessee fans a look at what is creeping into most of our sporting minds right now: What is the 2018 season going to look like for the Vols? But as I examined that question, I realized that there is perhaps one key, one group's development that will more directly impacted the 2018 Vols and the subsequent teams that follow, more than any other. So, let's take a look at this often overlooked group, a key that very few people are mentioning now. It requires a look back to 2017 (sorry), but we need to look back to see where we have come, as well as where we are going. I want to start my look at what 2018 holds for the Volunteers by examining the group that is most important for them, bar none: The Offensive Line. No group is more directly responsible for consistently winning and losing football games than the offensive line. A well coached, quality group here covers up a multitude of shortcomings elsewhere on offense, as well as helping with issues on defense by allowing a team to control the tempo and pace of the game. A group that has even a single weak link can lead to serious issues on offense, while an entire unit playing poorly is something that no amount of skill position players can fix. These are just the fundamentals and universal truths of football. You don't win at a high level with a bad offensive line group. Unfortunately for Tennessee fans, a look at the Vols under Butch Jones serves as a case study in that particular truth. I am a die hard, life long Volunteer fan. I've been in since I was 7 years old, watching games and learning the game from my Papaw, who learned the game listening to General Neyland's teams in his dad's barber shop. When I do laundry, I regularly have a load of just Orange clothes. My love for this team runs deep, but I am also going to write from my head, rather than my heart. So, Vol fans, let's just admit something together. Under Butch Jones, the Offensive Line has been bad. I mean really bad. There have been quality players, and the group Jones inherited in year one, coached mostly in their college careers by Sam Pittman, was good, but those guys weren’t products of Jones's system. Even that group took a step back under him. Once that group of guys graduated, it only went downhill. The Vols recruited highly touted, decorated offensive lineman. Quality players that many national powers offered scholarships to and recruited heavily. They had guys that seemed to burst onto the scene and play extremely well as freshmen. The trouble was, they never seemed to develop, they stayed riddled by injuries, or they simply couldn't get into the rotation. Many felt that the Offensive Line would be THE strength for the 2017 Volunteers. A quick Google search will show both regional and national writers that had articles talking about how this very experienced unit for the Vols should be a place the team could hang their hats. Many fans and many in the media expected Tennessee to be built around their offensive line, finding success behind them. Then there were some like me that never bought into that at all. I had two primary reasons for not getting behind Tennessee's experienced offensive line as a strength last season. First, most of the guys that had all that experience, had it being bad. They had played in a lot of games, but they hand been pushed around during most of them. Not really the kind of experience you want. Second, the guys with all the experience either weren't on the field, or were guys that Tennessee hoped wouldn't have to play much. Last season, the ideal starting five for Tennessee up front would have been, from left to right, Richmond, Kendrick, Robertson, Smith, and Hall. This group played not one snap together, but even so, let's look at what this group was. Drew Richmond had started several games and looked much improved at the end of the 2016 campaign, but was still a redshirt sophomore going into his first season as the full time starter at Left Tackle. Brett Kendrick had played all over for the Vols, sometimes as a starter, often as a swing man. His versatility allowed him to help the Vols wherever it was required, although injuries along the front forced him to play much more at Right Tackle last season rather than his natural spot at Guard. Jashon Robertson was a quality, respected interior offensive lineman. He had a mean streak, pass protected well, and could flat maul people in the running game. Still, he had fought many injuries, and all his experience had come at Guard, not at Center where he was playing and starting for the first time in his career, as a senior. Trey Smith was the number one recruit in the country at any position according to ESPN, but despite all the accolades, he was unproven in the college ranks, yet to play a single snap at that point. Chance Hall was the best returning Offensive Lineman the Volunteers had at their disposal, but the impact tackle missed the entire season with an injury in camp. That, “Experienced,” group came to a True Freshman with 0 starts, a Redshirt Sophomore with 5, a Senior with 0 at the position he opened the season at, and two guys that had started and come off the bench in multiple roles, and one in Hall that had already faced significant injuries. Coleman Thomas had many starts in his career, but after a promising start, he became a liability in his final two years in Knoxville. Jack Jones, a promising player that seemed to always improve the run game when he was on the field, struggled to get into the lineup and was sadly forced to retire prematurely due to health issues. Venzell Boulware, a talented interior lineman that also left heads scratched as to why he never cracked the rotation, left the program midseason. (Had he waited another week, he would have started the remainder of the season, likely being a key returning lineman for the Vols this year. As it stands, he will redshirt before continuing his career with the Miami Hurricanes. ) I illustrate the experience from last year to point out why I never bought into Tennessee's experienced offensive line being a strength in 2017. I felt like the group had a lot to prove, was very thin on depth, and with the constant struggles up front under Jones, that this group could be a liability again, potentially a fatal weakness with a few, key injuries. I really, really hate being right sometimes. So, why in an article looking ahead to the 2018 season do I insist on looking back to the 2017 season? Because there is no group on this Volunteer roster that stands to benefit more from Jeremy Pruitt becoming Head Coach of the Vols and changing the scheme than the big guys up front. This group, on the rare occasions they were allowed to line up and go straight downhill at a defense, that showed they could absolutely mash people, particularly in stretches of the 2016 season. This is a group that has a significant amount of highly touted, highly talented guys still on the roster. After years of watch Butch Jones run his offensive system, it became clear that he struggled enormously with developing offensive lineman at all. He also failed to utilize the talents of the guys he had in that group. Under Jeremy Pruitt, Tyson Helton, and Will Friend, I firmly believe that those trends are about to change. I am excited to see this group in a system that allows them to get after the guys across from them, with coaches that are focused on developing them as players, sharpening their skills, and employing a scheme to get the most out of them. I actually feel better about our offensive line group than I have in about five seasons. While depth is still an issue, I think that this group could actually be a strength for the 2018 Vols. Drew Richmond was a five star recruit for Tennessee, a guy that ticked all the boxes of a pure left tackle. He redshirted a season to get bigger and stronger before starting to open the 2016 season at left tackle. He lost the job after some struggles, but regained the job of starter for the end of the season, playing much better. The hopes for Richmond we’re high as a redshirt sophomore in 2017, but he failed to reach what many had expected of him. That being said, Richmond was still a young player, starting at left tackle in the SEC, no small feat. He also did son while playing on an offensive line that was atrocious for significant parts of the season. It didn’t matter how well Richmond did his job if two other guys completely busted on their assignments. Richmond struggled at times against exceptional pass rushers, particularly against speed rushers, but this also wasn't solely on his shoulders. Schematically, Butch Jones and Larry Scott stubbornly refused to give Richmond help, even in obvious passing downs. He was rarely given a tight end to help chip on a defensive end, or a running back staying in to help. He was regularly left on an island in situations where everyone in the stadium knew a pass was coming. Add to that the tendency of some of the Vols' inexperienced quarterbacks holding the ball too long, and that is a tall order for any left tackle. Richmond, most of the time, was solid, not spectacular, but rock solid as a left tackle in his first full tour of the SEC as the starter at that position. I think too many fans forget how young Richmond still was as a player, particularly in a position that physical age and strength make a huge difference for. Drew Richmond has every chance this season to take that next step and live up to the hype. There may be no player that can benefit more from Tyson Helton's pro style system and Will Friend's coaching than Richmond. This young man was a solid starter in a situation that had plenty stacked against him. If he takes a step forward with this new staff, in this new scheme, I can see a serious, breakout season for Richmond where he can garner some national attention. If he is able to return from his knee injury, I think that the decorated Chance Hall may slide inside to Left Guard. Coach Pruitt has talked about wanting bigger guys, and Hall is certainly a guy with plenty of size and strength. After multiple knee injuries, I have concerns about Hall's lateral movement if he were to return to his previous position at offensive tackle. Still, Hall is an extremely talented offensive lineman when healthy, far too good a player, with proven, SEC success, not to be in the starting five. That's why I think he makes so much sense at Guard. Inside, he won't be under as much pressure to excel with his lateral movement, where his knee could hinder him. In a phone booth situation, where Hall can simply square up on his man, he is a mauling run blocker, which could be devastating on the interior of Tennessee's line if he remains healthy. Provided he is healthy (and at the time of writing all indications are that he will be ready to play when the season opens), Trey Smith is the best offensive lineman Tennessee has. For that matter, Smith is one of the best offensive lineman in the nation, and the massive sophomore from Jackson is quite possibly the best player on Jeremy Pruitt's roster. Smith lived up to all the hype and then some last season, and despite some off season health concerns, there is no reason to suspect Smith will be anything less than outstanding in 2018. The big question for Smith is, where does he play? Smith was recruited to Tennessee, and by everyone in the country, to eventually work into being a Left Tackle. While he did play that position the end of last season, after injuries ravaged the Tennessee line, I don't think Smith opens at Left Tackle for the Vols. This has nothing to do with Smith's skill, and more with Tennessee trying to get their best five on the field together. The Vols have options at Left Tackle in Richmond, Hall, Smith, and Marcus Tatum, who have all started games there. Jahmir Johnson, a JUCO addition in the 2018 class, as well as true freshman from Memphis Jerome Carvin, also have potential to factor into the tackle discussion. Richmond, Tatum, and Johnson all appear to be pure tackles, while Smith, Hall, and Carvin are also capable of excelling at Guard as well. I think depth and personnel may keep Trey Smith at Guard for the Vols for another season, but that is far from a knock on him. Smith is a team first player that can absolutely demolish defenders wherever he lines up, be it at Guard or either tackle position. I am betting on Jahmir Johnson to win the right tackle job, which would keep Smith at Right Guard, however, should the coaches prefer Jerome Carvin, expect to see Smith start at right tackle, with Carvin sliding into his old spot at right guard, giving the Vols a right side of the line made up from the west side of the state. Here we come to the aforementioned Carvin and Johnson. These two additions to the 2018 class figure to make immediate impacts for Tennessee this season. My expectation is to see Johnson win one of the tackle jobs, most likely at right tackle. Johnson is a bit lean for an SEC tackle, but he is very strong and very quick for his size. He's a very smooth athlete and he is a sound run blocker. He also excels when asked to get out in space and block for screen passes. His age and experience at the JUCO level mean he is more likely to be ready to plug in immediately. I also can’t imagine Pruitt extending an offer to a JUCO lineman unless he felt and expected him to contribute right away. Carvin may not start this season for Tennessee, but his skill set and versatility means he will see the field plenty if healthy. Carvin is capable of plugging in at guard or tackle for the Vols, and to be a quality contributor at any of those positions. That versatility should make him almost a sixth man type player for Tennessee, that is, unless he wins one of the positions along the line as a starter, which would shock no one. Carvin has good size, good feet, and the kind of nasty attitude on the field that you love to see from a lineman. I think Carvin's best shot to start against West Virginia would be by showing he can absolutely shine at right guard immediately, allowing Trey Smith to go to right tackle. Jerome Carvin is going to be a starter for the Vols for a long time, it is just a matter of at what position and when he breaks into the lineup. Behind these guys, Tennessee's depth on the offensive line gets razor thin. This is a group that cannot withstand a multitude of injuries again, although they are in better shape than in recent seasons. Only Marcus Tatum has significant starting experience among the reserves, and his time in that role highlighted the development he still required. That said, this staff seems to focus on that development, so Tatum could grow into a greater asset for these Vols with another off season under his belt. Several players redshirted last season that should be in a position to help the interior of Tennessee's line with depth this year, though the staff would prefer they get to develop another year before being pressed into service as starters. The final piece of this puzzle for the Vols up front could come in the strange case of Brandon Kennedy. Kennedy is a graduate transfer that will be eligible to play in the 2018 season as a redshirt junior. Kennedy has been Alabama's backup center, but has started games for the Tide during his time in Tuscaloosa before being injured last season. Kennedy graduated early from Alabama, and wanted to transfer to either Auburn or Tennessee, both schools that Nick Satan (no, no, I meant to spell it that way), would not grant him a release to, citing an SEC rule he had used with Grad Tansfers in the past. It looked like this may be the end of Kennedy's transfer within the SEC, however the SEC ruled at their meetings in Destin that Grad Transfers were not subject to restrictions in where they continued their careers from the schools they had graduated from. Now that the rule changes get has gone on the books, it would appear Kennedy should be free to attend whatever school he chooses, and at the time of writing, he is considered a heavy Tennessee lean. Should Kennedy decide to join the Vols, he would almost certainly become the primary Center for the Vols, and the overwhelming favorite to start in that position in Charlotte against the Mountaineers. Under a new coach, playing in a new scheme, getting quality development, and with talented players remaining as well as being added, I feel better about the offensive line for the Volunteers right now than I have in many seasons. This won't be a light switch difference, but this is a group that, if they can remain healthy, is capable of shocking people, particularly if the Vols can secure the addition of Kennedy. Quality depth is still a concern, Center is a concern, and this group cannot weather multiple, significant injuries and remain highly effective, but this group has a mix of proven, quality players with some nice additions. These Vols may still face some issues against teams with an elite pass rush, particularly in obvious passing downs, but when I put on the tape, I feel very comfortable that I Helton's downhill, attacking run scheme, this line can really impose their will on teams. Add explosive backs like Ty Chandler and Tim Jordan to that recipe, and these Volunteers can develop an identity as a hard nosed, physical, tough football team that can be efficient and control the tempo of games, precisely the identity Jeremy Pruitt has talked about wanting to build on Rocky Top. I'm writing with my head, not my heart, and I still think, for the first time in a long time, that these Volunteers could end up leaning on their offensive line as one of their biggest strengths. That would be one of the most drastic turnarounds in the college football landscape in 2018, and even as a realist, if they stay reasonably healthy, I can see it happening. That bodes well for the Volunteers in 2018 and for the long term health and success of the program. It may not be pretty, and it may not be sexy, but a good line is a great barometer of the health of a football program, and that reading could be favorable for Tennessee for the first time in long time this fall. Besides, football isn't about being sexy, it is about hitting the other guy in the mouth, and I am ecstatic to see Tennessee getting back to that.

Johnathan Kongbo's stay on the hill will have mixed opinions and reviews. Some say he has been a bust and his numbers have come close to expectations. Others will say he is a byproduct of an incompetent head coach who is currently licking Nick Saban's bootstrap. Regardless of which side you fall on I'm here to tell you something different, and that is Kongbo will not only make the NFL, but he will make it, and make a big name for himself. But let me take a step back for a second. I've had this discussion with a lot of people I know and I often get some smack talk directed in Kongbo's way, and I want to say first and foremost if you don't know Kongbo's backstory of where he has come from, and what he has been through I encourage you to do some Googling. There is no man you should want to root for more than, Johnathan Kongbo. He comes from a distraught background filled with war, violence, and genocide. He himself is a humble giant, and a Vol for life anyone should be proud to put their hat behind. Okay, back to the article. Now if you look at Kongbo's stats and compare them to say Derek Barnett you will be asking yourself what makes you think this guy will be anything close to DB? (It's not a pretty comparison, especially if you compare the solo tackles vs the two, hell pretty much any stat between the two for that matter.) But I'm not going to be comparing him to Derek Barnett. Instead I will be comparing him to Jadeveon Clowney and how once he went to the Texans, who ran a 3-4 Defense, he thrived and was finally in his natural position. This whole time, Kongbo has been pedestrian because he's been out of position. And it's taken a real coach like Jeremy Pruitt, a multi-National Championship winning Defensive Coordinator, to see what the others had mentally passed over. Kongbo will fit the 3-4 system as a linebacker much better than he did as a 4-3 Defensive End. Jadeveon Clowney was starting to look like a bust (similar to Kongbo) when a position change, changed his entire outlook of opportunity as a player and as an athlete. I think after this season the same will be said about Kongbo, and this time next year we will be discussing how much higher he was drafted than we had ever expected in the past. We will be asking how did nobody see this gifted talent sooner and why it took so long to put him in the spot he has belonged in the entire time. You know I just realized earlier I brought up a comparison of stats between Derek Barnett and Kongbo and failed to mention the one thing Kongbo did that Barnett never did, and that's return an interception for touchdown for 59 yards. I think it, along with just his physical abilities, are a great sign of the things to come for the young man. I believe Pruitt will put him where he belongs, and start putting all our players in the best possible positive to thrive and make their dreams come true by having their names called on draft day like in the "Glory Days" of Tennessee football.The days of us hoping we have a least one or two players drafted are soon to be behind us. Things on The Hill are changing, and I think this year our defense will be beyond stellar partially lead by breakout player, and future NFL starter/star, Johnathan Kongbo. (Please comment and let us know what you think, do you think he will have a breakout year or continue to be a bust?)

I know Vol fans haven't forgotten this past National Signing Day.... On Facebook Live, local news, all sorts of alternative media outlets, Knoxville native and son of former UT OL, Kevin Mays, smugly takes his shirt off while picking Georgia over his former team of commitment in Tennessee. Most fans at that point didn't expect him to come to UT once he decommited. Butch Jones had made sure to do irreparable damage to Tennessee with his slogans, injuries, and unfriendly offensive line system which seemed to be the most inconstant part of his tenure here. But why did this sting so much? What made THIS different than other times local players have gone elsewhere? The desperate need for offensive linemen? The dream of Trey Smith and him making one of the best offensive lines Tennessee has ever seen? My answer is none of the above.... Nope none of that, but what you may ask? Well it starts here... "F*** Tennessee too." Not long after he chose to commit to one of Tennessee's oldest rivals, he celebrates by spending time in Knoxville with his buddies saying F# Tennessee, along with other SEC schools to be fair, a school he was once committed. It would seem it's either immaturity or something personal happened we are not aware of. Either way it definitely left a sour taste in Tennessee fans mouths. That accompanied with the style of commitment change, the tweets that followed indirectly insulting Tennessee fans for hating on his decision on Twitter, just seems to have left a really salty/sour taste in Tennessee fans mouths. I would understand if we were still at our former glory, but it seems all to much he is kicking us while we are down. Someone who is supposed to be a Knoxville guy.. played at Catholic, grew up right down the road from I-40 where most of us did. It's fine to make your decision and go where you have the best change to make it to the NFL and live out your dreams.. That's your right as a God given American, but to be a petulant child about the situation just seems uncalled for. I noticed not long after his signing much more GA commits talking smack to Tennessee fans and players on social media at a higher and higher rate. It would seem very likely this could ignite our rivalry to even greater bounds than what preceded it. Or maybe this is just the latest chapter in many that is Tennessee vs Georgia. Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure I can tell... It seems Cade Mays and Tennessee fans/players alike are taking this personal and it's going to be fun to watch it unfold in the next few seasons to come.

By: John Dunn Tennessee was once known as "WRU" or, "Wide Receiver University". Wide receivers such as: Robert Meachem, Carl Pickens and Peerless Price made their names at the University of Tennessee. We have since fallen on hard times at receiver...or have we? People seem to sleep on what I believe, is an elite unit. There are a ton of receivers listed on the roster. Let's break down the specific players that I believe will make this unit one of the best in the country. 1.) Jauan Jennings. Jauan Jennings needs no introduction to Vol nation. From catching the game-winning hail mary against Georgia in the 16'-17' season, to burning and staring down Jalen "Teez" Tabor in the Florida game, Jennings has long provided an emotional spark for the Tennessee offense. Along with his play-making abilities, Jennings returns from injury this season bringing something even more valuable to the team..experience. Maturity in tow and a set of fresh legs will prove to elevate Jennings to the national spotlight, once again. 2.) Marquez Callaway Much like Jennings, Callaway has already captivated the hearts of Vol fans everywhere with his electric play-making ability. Early in what would turn out to be an abysmal season, Callaway showed flashes of being one of the SEC's top receivers. He was the best player on offense in the spring game, catching two touchdowns from Guarantano. Having Jennings back on the other side of the field will play to Callaway's advantage and he will supply the Vols with plenty of touchdowns in the coming season. 3.) Tyler Byrd After a brief position switch, Tyler Byrd is back at receiver. Arguably one of the most under-utilized players of coach Butch Jones' tenure, Byrd is poised for a break-out season. His top-tier speed and open field ability, make him a "home-run" threat every time he has the ball in his hands. Look for Byrd to be blowing past defenders, if hasn't shaken them out of their shoes first, all season long. 4.) Brandon Johnson After leading the Vols in reception yardage last season and tying the team in receptions, Brandon Johnson is poised for a well-rounded season. He has the ability to stretch the field vertically, due to his size and sure handed receiving ability. Complimented by the likes of Callaway, Byrd and Jennings, Johnson will live up to his family name and provide plenty of exciting plays for the Volunteers this season. 5.) Josh Palmer Canadian-born receiver, Josh Palmer, is no stranger to a big stage even in his youth. During his time in high school, he played at one of the largest power houses in high school football, Saint Thomas Aquinas in Florida. He played in all 12 games for the Volunteers last season, seeing significant time in six of those games. Having a veteran group of receivers to "show him the ropes", Palmer will provide stability and depth at the WR position. 6.) Latrell Williams Much like Josh Palmer, Latrell Williams provides depth and stability at the WR position. Williams has shown sure-handed ability and the ability stretch the field vertically with his size and precise footwork. With a group of veteran receivers ahead of him, the Vols are in good shape should the need arise for Williams to play important minutes. While many may sleep on the University of Tennessee wide receiver corps, I firmly believe that we posses one of the most well-rounded and complete groups of receivers in the enitre country. With Jarrett Guarantano improving as a quarterback, and the arrival of Keller Chryst, these Volunteer receivers are in prime position to show out this season.