Guitar Shots to The Head: Not So Bold Predictions

I’ve never been much of a prognosticator, but if I had to guess I would say this Vol team is capable of an 8-4 season. Rather than bore you with a usual wins and lost list, I am going to give you a run down of things Vol fans can expect to see on the field this year.

Most of the observations are based on what I personally saw in the spring game, and what we are hearing from media reports and eye witness practice accounts by respected VolNationals.

What to expect from the QB position: Expect to see Jon Crompton make his share of mistakes. In order for a QB to excel in the SEC their timing and accuracy has to be near perfect. Look no further than Matthew Stafford for proof of that. The key for Jon Crompton will be avoiding mistakes in the red zone. If the Vols are going to put up points, this will be an absolute must.

Don’t expect: To hear any chatter about this team not buying into the new offensive scheme. If these players don’t want to play as the coaches are instructing, there will soon be several in place right behind them willing to execute Lane Kiffin’s game plan.

What to expect from the offense: The offense will be improved, but only time will tell how much and how soon the improvements will be noticeable.

Don’t expect: This offense will not commit silly penalties that stall drives. The most encouraging thing that I saw in the Orange and White game was the conspicuous absence of silly penalties. This coaching staff is more deliberate and disciplined, and the team has definitely taken on that personality as well.

What to expect from the skill positions: Tennessee will have an immediate boost in speed at the skill positions. It will show up in games against some of our less talented opponents.

Don’t expect: Bryce Brown will not run for 150 yards against the Gators this year.

What to expect from the defense: The defensive ends may finally provide much needed pass rush from the edge.

Don’t expect: The linebackers are a relatively young group, and they had a hard time getting off of blocks in the spring game. It will be later in the season before they get their legs under them and make all the plays required of the position.

What to expect from Eric Berry: Eric Berry will lay the wood consistently and return at least 3 interceptions for touchdowns.

Don’t expect: Eric Berry will not win the Heisman Trophy.
What to expect from special teams: A much improved special teams unit will not surrender any returns for touchdowns this year.

Don’t expect: The UT special teams is not likely to score any touchdowns this year either.

Overall, with the exception of the linebacker position I expect marked improvement from every unit on the field. This will be a well coached, disciplined football team. If Jon Crompton can improve his completion percentage by 8 or 9 points and limit his mistakes in the red zone, UT could be an 8-4 team. If they find a way to sneak up on Georgia or if Ole Miss has lost their luster by the time the Vols make the trip it could be a very successful season for Tennessee this year.

At the very least, before kick off, I think we can all say that the future is very bright for this program.

Until next time: Go Vols!