Lou Holtz has already conceded this game. But then again, to listen to him, he faces the best team in the nation every week. Holtz is famous for giving the attitude that it will take miraculous play from his team to notch a win, even if the opponent is Eastern Kentucky State Technical College.
This week he truly has a tough test in the Vols. Their play last weekend showed teamwork, competitive spirit, and discipline, qualities that were in short supply last season.
Of course, many prognosticators are looking back to the last SEC championship game the Vols appeared in. ( I won't say they played in it.) After a big win over the Gators in the Swamp, they played flat against LSU and lost a shot at the National Championship. Yes, there is a danger of the Vols overlooking South Carolina, sandwiched between Florida and a killer three game stretch (Auburn, Georgia, and Alabama). But I think the Vols are a smarter team than they were two years ago. I don't think they will let the Gamecocks steal a win in Neyland stadium.
But, the Gamecocks may just earn one. The Gamecocks are ranked in the top five in rushing defense, and allow about 2 yards per carry. Our offensive line has not lived up to pre-season expectations yet, which could create problems for the Vol running attack. Clausen has yet to show any consistency, and, given the weather forecast, (cold and rainy) I wouldn't count on his passing ability to help if the Gamecocks bottle up the run with 7-8 men in the box.
The difference maker will be the Tennessee defense, which should prove more than enough to keep the Gamecocks penned up. Holtz's team has a better chance of scoring on defense, aided by a UT turnover.
A rainy day could mean a closer score, but I'm still going with the Vols to win, 28-10
Posted by Rich at September 26, 2003 12:04 PM | TrackBackI think the score may be a little closer then that by the time the game ends. I think UT will be a little over confident after their big win last week and it is going to cost them. 17-14 with UT comming out on top.
Posted by: Isaac on September 26, 2003 5:52 PM