We beat Vandy!
Woohoo.
But we kept them from scoring!
yippee.
Team grade:C+
Vandy just doesn't provide decent competition for the Vols, even in a bad year. The emergence of the running game spelled doom for Vandy, and our dependable defense was more than a match for Vandy's suspect offense.
Kentucky is another story. Lorenzen will provide a stern test to UT's big play secondary. Our coverage is soft, but quick, which means we make a lot of interceptions, but also that we give up a lot of big plays. Lorenzen will have a field day, unless our defensive line can put pressure on him. Unfortunately, our defense will have all they can handle trying to contain Pinner. The combination will likely overwhelm the Vol defense, and put up 35 points.
Which brings us to our offense, which is beginning to show signs of life behind an improved offensive line, and the running of Cedric Houston. For the Vols to have a chance to win this game, they must launch several long drives, each resulting in scores, keeping Lorenzen and Pinner off of the field. Sadly, every coach in the nation knows that UT can't pass effectively, and Kentucky will stack up to stop the run, with a double team on Whitten. Look for Kentucky to end one more UT streak: KY 35 UT 24
I would so love to be wrong on this one...
Posted by Rich at November 26, 2002 11:15 AM