What do we do when we get what we want? That’s been a moving target these past 15 years. Some seasons it was bowl eligibility, others just a fresh start. Just to play at all in 2020, which weirdly seems so long ago now. Above all, of course, was hope. […]

Things are slower over here these days, and I just kind of assumed the picks contest would be something we let go of…but I’ve just come to realize how much I just really enjoy running this thing. Some of my oldest friends, who may even still be floating around this […]

In 2021, the thing Tennessee was statistically worst at was sack rate allowed. The Vols surrendered 44 sacks, 124th nationally, and UT quarterbacks went down on 10.48% of their pass attempts. That percentage was the worst in Knoxville during the post-Fulmer era. The 2021 offensive line sent Cade Mays to […]

Since the AP poll expanded to 25 teams in 1989, Tennessee has been ranked in the preseason poll 24 times. That includes yesterday, when the Vols debuted at #12. In the continuing adventures of “being back”, if you take the average of those 24 appearances over the past 35 seasons, […]

How much progress can a program make in a coach’s first two years? One of the things I’ve enjoyed playing with the most these past few weeks is Bill Connelly’s historical SP+ data. Using a simplified version of his SP+ formula based on points scored/points allowed, Connelly has a rating […]

Our family moved back to Knoxville a year ago now. I often joke that I need a side gig with the chamber of commerce, because I’m not sure anyone is happier to be here. In that time, it’s been a delight to watch our church and our children grow. My […]

There was this nice string of days last week that went Vols in Omaha –> Julian Phillips in the NBA Draft –> Phil Steele arrives in my mailbox. Because the joyful weight of an #everythingschool is felt most on the calendar. This is June 29, and it’s time to talk […]