The CheckerBoard

I think coach Martin needs to go after a legit outside shooter, you can have the best defence in the country but who will be there to watch it, boring product out on the floor right now means no butts in the seats.

Great energy from new football staff, its a relief to have a real football coach instead of one with a famous name and no game.

Ryan, thanks for the info. I know you don't have a crystal ball but what is the probability the staff will land a top 20 class? Thanks!

I don't think a breakthrough in recruiting will occur until we win a game against a team we are not supposed to beat.

While I agree, in spirit, with what some of you post about next year's recruiting class, I think we should be careful to think that we are going to do better recruiting next year because our record will be more impressive. Next year's schedule is brutal. We have almost an entirely new staff, with new systems, a new starting QB--and we don't know who that is yet--new receivers, new TE, etc. I think it is completely unfair to expect UT to have a better record next year. In other words, Jones and Co. have to recruit well DESPITE what record is likely next year.

That being said...I think our defense was POORLY coached last year and can be, with our personnel, much more effective. Maybe our new starting QB will be a huge surprise. Maybe the spread and zone blocking will fit our strengths superbly. If you are hoping that these will be true, I am with you...but we must be aware that these are big hopes, not probabilities. Vols!!