Vols 30, Gators 28
On a night that was supposed to be all wet due to the remnants of a hurricane, the remnants of a rivalry were gathered instead as Tennessee and Florida’s stormy relationship culled into what was arguably the greatest game in the recent history of the series. Down to the gut-wrenching wire, it was a game where a new era was begun.
Freshman Erik Ainge gained the poise of a veteran and hit his receivers when it counted. Starting QB Brent Schaeffer didn’t look bad either, and I think the secret is now out that Tennessee is deep in the QB position. James Wilhoit’s missed PAT and redemptive game-winning 50-yard field goal showed that this Tennessee teams possessed a depth of character as well.
I hate the Gators, but I love to see the Vols able to recover from mistakes against an unforgiving Florida offense. The outlook is good for Rocky Top this year—if we don’t blow it. Kevin Simon’s injury could be very costly for the defense. Only time will tell…
It’s football time in Tennessee!
Yes, indeed, it was a glorious outcome for the Big Orange. But the Vols have some work to do on the defensive side. The D gave up a 97 & 94 yard td drive to the Gators. And were terrible at preventing Fla. from converting on 3rd down. However, the Vol D did show a silver lining with a tough goal line stand and stopping the Gators when they really had to do it. All in all, the future’s so bright, I gotta wears shades would be a good forecast for the Vols chances this year and years to come.