The CheckerBoard

cool

I love hearing these kids say their favorite part is spending time with the coaches. Most major programs have incredible facilities and stadiums, so many times the staff is what sets the program apart and above others. It seems this staff is starting to make big impressions on recruits, just hope it can continue onto the field.

I believe it is really simple. We have a load of talent that is looking for a reason to come to UT and that reason is one thing PROGRESS.No one wants to sign up for losing football.
I don't think we have to win the SEC but a bowl and some excitement back in the program will be a huge factor since all the recruits say they like the coaches a lot.

Looking at 2013 schedule these games are huge to get to that goal these are must wins leaving out the probable wins and probable losses.

AUBURN
VANDERBILT

win those probably 6-6 got to bowl this may be enough these are MUST wins

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SOUTH CAROLINA OR GEORGIA AT HOME = 7-5 huge
WIN BOTH = 8-4 AND POSSIBLY A TOP 10 CLASS!

my summary have to beat VU and AUBURN and either GA or SC at home to have the success needed to attract the top talent.

I think 7-5 is the most likely but the terribly coached team we had last yr still hung with GA ans SC away from home so winning one or both is not a stretch.

Definitely need W's on AU & Vandy...no clue on what to expect out of AU? GA probably gonna be a longshot, but SC will be interesting. Gonna be fun sizing up this schedule...can't wait for Spring ball and see what BuTch does w/this team. By all accounts, Lawson's really setting the tone that will carry over into Mar/Apr. I'll definitely be there for the O&W game!

Ryan, was Dillon Bates there and if so, how was his visit?

I agree that the recruits--Malone and Hurd both said it--are looking for progress with this program not a next-year championship. How they gauge progress will be interesting to see. There are a ton of new pieces in place and while it may be exciting, there may also be some time of adjustment. Besides a virtually all-new staff, many of the big-time skills players are newbies and we have to improve a record-settingly-horrible defense. I will be looking for progress in these terms: fight to the final whistle, sound fundamentals, and evident leadership. These will be big signs of progess to me. But, if a recruit is looking at improvement in terms of win-loss record, then who knows what the future holds. This Vols team and staff could be the dark-horse surprise of next season. In order to break 6-6, I think they will have to upset a couple of teams.

The good news? I believe they have a much greater chance of that now than a year ago!

Vols!!

Welcome to the Neighborhood aharv. GO VOLS!