Monday, August 2, 2010

2010 SEC Football Preview: Tennessee Volunteers


By Dan Harralson

Rocky Top you'll always be, home sweet home to me. These are the words Derek Dooley is singing and praising during his eight months on the job. Some can say Mike Hamilton has hired two outsiders since letting loose Phillip Fulmer (a true Tennessee guy.) Dooley is an outsider on one token, but on the other he is the right man for this job. He understands what SEC football is about and respects each SEC institution like it is the one he is coaching. Tennessee football has seen only four coaches from 1964-2008 (Dickey, Battle, Majors, and Fulmer.) The 2009 debacle called Lane Kiffin makes the Dooley era even more special. Kiffin is a good fit at USC, and rightfully so I hope he does well. Dooley brings much needed respect back into the Alabama/Tennessee rivalry. Alabama leads the Third Saturday in October rivalry 47-38-7. The last three decades have showcased why it is so close between the two historic programs: 2000's, tied 5-5; 1990's, Tennessee 5-4-1; 1980's Alabama 6-4. Derek's father, Vince, was an Auburn man, but a Georgia legend. Derek has Georgia roots and LSU championships; but Derek Dooley is embracing being a Tennessee man. The process does not begin smoothly on the field. Matt Simms and Tyler Bray will battle for the top quarterback spot. The first year in the Dooley era will have its ups and downs. Tough home games against Oregon, Florida, Alabama, Ole Miss, and Kentucky highlight the schedule. Also, throw in road games at LSU, Georgia, and South Carolina (but welcome to the SEC.) Look for the Vols to post at least six wins this season. Below I asked Coach Dooley how he is embracing the city of Knoxville: