For only the third time since the 98 championship season, Tennessee finishes the season on a positive note with a bowl win. The Vols overcame the many distractions that faced them during the post season, including coaching vacancies, suspended players and witnessing Duke officials at bowl practice. In the end it was Antonio Wardlow that intercepted a Tyler Donovan pass in the endzone with under a minute remaining to preserve a 21-17 win.
When the day was over, it marked several significant endings for the Tennessee family. It was the end of the line for four coaches: Trooper Taylor, Matt Luke, Kurt Roper, and David Cutcliffe. Love them or hate them, it will be a lot different next year on the hill without those four. I won’t say that fans are happy to see them go because I believe most respect the job they’ve done. However, many are ready for new blood and fresh ideas on the offensive side of the ball.
It’s also the end of an era for Tennessee’s senior quarterback. Erik Ainge has to be one of the most discussed and debated quarterbacks ever to wear orange. From his surprising, team leading performances as a true freshman in 2004 all the way to his two interceptions in the 2007 SEC championship game. It’s been quite the journey.
I’m not going to give you my play by play breakdown or analysis (you’re welcome) since it’s already been dissected from every possible angle in our Vols Forum. However, I did want to point out a few relevant threads that are must reads:
- The game thread. All 1700+ posts of recorded history for all to see.
- The Eric Berry thread. What a sensational freshman season he had.
- The Badgers are whining. It’s always fun to take joy in the misery of others.
- Thanks to the seniors. These guys have been through a lot together.
- Cutcliffe’s Wizardry. Great post by kptvol breaking down Tennessee’s offensive struggles in the second half of games this season.
- We finished with a better record than Florida. True, even though they have a great coach, Superman himself is their quarterback, AND they run the spread option.
- How do you remember Ainge? Two SEC champinsip games but no championships.