HERE is the biggest concern following NSD, heading into the 2009 season...

[Duckhook]

4 linemen total, and only 2 kids bigger than 265lbs. Add that to last year's weak class of only 6 linemen, either side of the ball. 2010-11 will be its own concerns as a result, but let's talk 2009. What are the best guesses at a starting OL and 2-deep on the DL? This will be the difference b/t a good or bad season. Fill in the blanks:

LT-
LG-
C-
RG-
RT-

DE-
DT-
DT-
DE-

 

[allorange12816]

I have to say with the new coaching staff. Our team will be better coached so I feel we shouldn't worry just yet. We are talking about Monte and NFL power coaches.

GO VOLS :thumbsup:

 

[Duckhook]

Uhm...okay. Glad you're confident. Now, back to the question. Looking at the roster, who will man these spots? Someone must have at least an educated guess.

 

[BleedinOrange98]

Obviously depth is a concern but right now our d line is looking pretty good:

RE - chris walker
DT - Dan Williams
DT- several others that just need to step up
LE - Ben Martin

I think we're in trouble with the O-line tho

 

[Duckhook]

McClendon, McNeil, and I'm guessing Richard will make up the interior OL. Is Ramone Johnson gone for good? Not sure who will play OT. Scott?

 

[Volsfan4243]

2010 will be much different. Most of the top OL and DL prospects were pretty much committed before Kiffin took over. Having only signed 20 players this year, look for a monster class next season with an emphasis on QB, OL, DL, a big bruising RB, and a Marlon Brown type of receiver. Jaquez Smith is a good start at DE.

 

[shyster]

With the way our O line played last year, you could fill in with the UT Cheerleaders (men or women), and do just as well.