VOLS SINK IN SWAMP

BY RAFAEL GARCIA
SEC INSIDER

Once again another Tennessee team goes to The Swamp and gets whipped.

This is where Vol players go to lose their season. It all started with a big punt return for a touchdown for the Gators and while the Vols responded with a big kickoff return if their own their drive came up empty. Tennessee put on challenge in the second half, but there came a point when the Vol nation just sat down and shut up. Life was drained not only from the team, but the fans as well.

At this point, at 1-2, the local media is full of shame and anger as well as shock. Let’s look at the facts:

Key Points:
1. Brandon James (pictured) 83-yard punt return for a TD.
2. Erik Ainge/Arian Foster fumble returned for a TD.
2. Tim Tebow 30-yard TD pass to Riley Cooper opened up lead.
3. Erik Ainge 15-yard TD pass to Chris Brown at the end of the half.
4. Eric Berry 96-yard interception return for a TD.

Big Hits:
1. Florida defense allows only 37 yards rushing for the game.
2. Eric Berry has solid game including a big third down hit that stopped a Florida drive.
3. Tennessee offensive line good pass protection in the first half.

That Yellow Flag:
1. Both teams combine for 16 penalties for 106 yards.
2. 1st quarter offsides by Florida on 4th and inches that gave Tennessee a first down.
3. Illegal formation in 2nd quarter cost UT first down they needed.

Aint That Special:
1. Brandon James 193 return yards.
2. LaMarcus Coker kickoff return for 74 yards.
3. Tennessee special teams a bit slow and missed tackles.

Low Ends:
1. Tennessee offensive line could not open holes for backs.
2. Tennessee was 5-17 on third down conversions.
3. Jonathan Hefney kept going for big instead of just tackling.

Into The Mind:
1. Tennessee coach Phillip Fulmer goes for 4th and 7 with 12 minutes to go, yet on two 4th and one situations he opted to punt and kick a field goal. Do you think the message he sent his offense and Florida’s defense set the tone for the rest of the game?
2. Florida coach Urban Meyer proved he is light years ahead of Fulmer. He utilized his big play guys and let Tebow take control. With that he pumped up his defense and they fed off that. That’s coaching baby!