The final BCS rankings put Florida in the National Championship Game LSU in the Sugar Bowl and Tennessee in the Outback.  I never thought I'd say this but, uh, thanks Florida.  Eck!  That was like kissing your step-sister.

What a difference a year makes.  Last year Tennesee spent the New Year in Knoxville watching other teams, well, like, uh, Florida, play in bowl games.

In 2005, the Vols were coming off of an SEC Eastern Division Championship and a huge Cotton Bowl win where Rick Clausen, playing in the place of an injured Eric Ainge, had led the team from Rocky Top to a demolishing of what had been a pretty good Texas A&M team.  Then, beneath the radar, Eric Ainge won the job back in the spring.  However, Eric struggled throughout the season leading to calls for Clausen who the fans loved.  The team seemed to have its doubts about Eric too.  Conversely, they seemed to have their spirits raised up when Clausen came in as he did when he led a tremendous fourth quarter comeback over LSU which ended up being the high point of the season.

Exit Randy Sanders as Offensive Coordinator.  Welcome back David Cutcliff as Offensive Coordinator.

David told Eric to cut his hair and lose his earring.  Eric called Peyton Manning to ask him what to do.  Peytons advice?

Shut up.  Do what he says.  Listen to him.  You will be a better quarterback.

Thanks Peyton.

Eric took Peyton's advice.  He did what David told him to.  He is a better quarterback.  He has matured beyond the potential he showed as a Freshman and fortunately, only occasionally, do we get a glimpse of the harried Sophomore that simply threw the ball up in the air for an easy Nortre Dame interception and touchdown return in 2005.

In 2006 David, Eric and the Vols have come bouncing back.

2007 Outback Bowl
Jan. 1, 2007
Tampa, Fla. - Raymond James Stadium - ESPN - 11 a.m. EST