We’re counting down the kickoff until the Vols’ football season with a look back at Tennessee players who’ve worn the numbers.
No. 49 Kelly Ziegler
Kelly Ziegler played linebacker for Tennessee from 1984-87, according to the Tennessee record books. His statistics on utsports.com show that he also appeared in two games during the 1983 season.
In 45 games for the Vols during his career, Ziegler managed 254 tackles and three sacks. He was named All-SEC in 1987.
When Tennessee dismantled the Miami Hurricanes in the Sugar Bowl on New Year’s Day in 1986, Zielger played alongside Darren Miller and Dale Jones at linebacker. He finished the game with six solo tackles and an assist.
Zeigler led that magical ’85 team in total hits (101) and solo tackles (83).
He was the last Vol to wear 49 before it was retired.
Interesting tidbit: Kelly Ziegler was one of ten Vols suspended for Tennessee’s opener in 1986 against New Mexico for ‘abuse of complementary game tickets.’ Both Nebraska and Texas got in trouble with the NCAA for the same offense that week. Tennessee’s backup quarterback Randy Sanders was also suspended, along with Carlos Reveiz, Richard Cooper, Wesley Pryor, Troy Hale, Todd Kirk, Fred Bennett, David Johnson and Tony Nelson. ‘We have a strong program. It’s not built on straw. If anybody can do it and overcome adversity, our program can,’ coach Johnny Majors said.
All-Time 49s via utsports (2013)
Rudy Klarer – 1941, 42 (*Retired In Honor)
Gene Huff – 1944
Carroll Young – 1956
Jim Lowe – 1958
Glenn Glass – 1959, 60, 61
Larry Watson – 1962
Art Galiffa – 1963
Bob Mauriello – 1968
Johnny Thompson – 1970, 72
John Tharpe – 1973, 74
Danny Emery – 1975
Rick Berkhan – 1976, 77
Steve Castleman – 1978
Dale Schneitman – 1979
Jake Tillman – 1981
Kelly Ziegler – 1984, 85, 86, 87