If you took the best players….

#26
#26
That 92 Bama defense was one do the best I’ve ever seen. Jay Barker was an avg @ best QB but nobody could score on that D.

I think their opponents averaged about 9.5 points per game. And, most of the points they gave up some games were vs. 2nd team players.
 
#27
#27
I couldn’t figure anyone that would beat Miami.

Sapp, Kennedy, Jerome Brown dline

Lewis, Barron, Dan Morgan Lbers

Rolle, Taylor, Reed DBs

I’m sure I’m forgetting some studs on the defensive side as well.
 
#32
#32
Look at his stats.
I did. That's my point. Assigning greatness to stats would make Andre Ware and David Klingler all time greats. Multiple championships are stat above all others. WTF? My God, Man, the Packers ran the ball most of the time. When passing plays HAD to be made in pressure situations, he made them. You probably don't think Brady is a little higher, just a little, than Peyton, right?
 
#41
#41
Miami, USC, and Notre Dame would probably have the best teams.

Notre Dame would have Montana throwing to Tim Brown, Michael Floyd, Golden Tate, Will Fuller, etc. and handing off to Jereme Bettis or Ricky Watters. And a ton of All Pro TEs. Plenty of great defenders too.

USC would have Carson Palmer, Marcus Allen, OJ, Bush, White, Swann, Steve Smith, an incredible OLine with Matthews, Munoz, etc…then on D, Lott, Seau…on and on…

Miami is similar.
What about Montana throwing to "Rocket" Ismael? Dude was scary fast and I saw him play in Neyland in one of the best games ever even though UT lost at the very end.
 
#43
#43
Miami, USC, and Notre Dame would probably have the best teams.

Notre Dame would have Montana throwing to Tim Brown, Michael Floyd, Golden Tate, Will Fuller, etc. and handing off to Jereme Bettis or Ricky Watters. And a ton of All Pro TEs. Plenty of great defenders too.

USC would have Carson Palmer, Marcus Allen, OJ, Bush, White, Swann, Steve Smith, an incredible OLine with Matthews, Munoz, etc…then on D, Lott, Seau…on and on…

Miami is similar.
Don’t forget Troy Polamalu at USC also.
 
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#44
#44
Of all time from each school and make them your All time team could any college beat TN?

QB Peyton Manning

DE Reggie White

RB Jamal Lewis

Safety Eric Berry

TE Jason Witten

LB Al Wilson

CB Terry McDaniel

Just to name a few.

Not many teams would compete.

I dunno, but looked this up, and it's pretty pathetic:

Colleges with most NFL HOFs:

Notre Dame (14)
Southern California (14)
Michigan (11)
Ohio State (10)
Pittsburgh (10)
Miami - Florida (9)
Alabama (8)
Syracuse (8)
Minnesota (7)
Illinois (6)
....
Tennessee (3)
 
#45
#45
Here we go...


University of Miami Hurricanes All-Time Football Starting Lineup​


Offense​


  • Quarterback: Vinny Testaverde (1983-1986)
    • Why: Heisman Trophy winner (1986), threw for 6,058 yards and 48 touchdowns, leading Miami to the 1983 national championship. His 3,238 yards in 1985 set a then-school record.
    • Backup: Jim Kelly (1978-1982) – NFL Hall of Famer, threw for 5,233 yards and 32 touchdowns at Miami.
  • Running Back: Edgerrin James (1996-1998)
    • Why: Rushed for 2,960 yards (third all-time at Miami) and 32 touchdowns, with a school-record 1,416 yards in 1998. His 299 yards vs. UCLA remains a single-game record.
    • Backup: Willis McGahee (2001-2002) – Set single-season records with 1,753 yards and 28 touchdowns in 2002.
  • Running Back: Ottis Anderson (1975-1978)
    • Why: Rushed for 3,331 yards (second all-time at Miami), with 1,266 yards in 1978. A reliable workhorse during Miami’s pre-dynasty years.
    • Backup: Frank Gore (2001-2004) – Averaged 9.1 yards per carry as a freshman in 2001, despite injury setbacks.
  • Wide Receiver: Michael Irvin (1985-1987)
    • Why: School-record 26 receiving touchdowns, 2,423 yards (fourth all-time), and a first-team All-American (1986). Key to the 1987 national title.
    • Backup: Andre Johnson (2000-2002) – 1,092 yards in 2002, averaging 21 yards per catch, a seven-time NFL Pro Bowler.
  • Wide Receiver: Santana Moss (1997-2000)
    • Why: Miami’s all-time leading receiver with 2,546 yards, 19 touchdowns, and a big-play threat on the 2001 national championship team.
    • Backup: Reggie Wayne (1997-2000) – 2,510 career yards, clutch performer on the 2001 title team.
  • Tight End: Kellen Winslow II (2001-2003)
    • Why: John Mackey Award winner (2003), All-American, with 1,365 yards and nine touchdowns. A dynamic pass-catcher on the 2001 championship team.
    • Backup: Jeremy Shockey (2000-2001) – 519 yards and seven touchdowns in 2001, a key part of the national title run.
  • Left Tackle: Bryant McKinnie (1999-2001)
    • Why: Two-time All-American, Outland Trophy (2001), and Sports Illustrated National Player of the Year (2001). Didn’t allow a sack in his Miami career.
    • Backup: Leon Searcy (1988-1991) – All-American (1991), started every game for three seasons, key to two national titles.
  • Left Guard: Joaquin Gonzalez (1998-2001)
    • Why: All-American (2001), Academic Heisman (2001), and a walk-on turned star on the 2001 championship line. Versatile enough to slide to guard.
    • Backup: Vernon Carey (2000-2003) – Versatile All-Big East lineman, started 24 games across guard and tackle.
  • Center: Brett Romberg (1999-2002)
    • Why: Rimington Award winner (2002), consensus All-American, didn’t allow a sack, and anchored the 2001 title team’s line with 33 pancake blocks.
    • Backup: Richard Mercier (1996-1999) – All-American (1999), tied the school record for career starts.
  • Right Guard: Eric Winston (2002-2005)
    • Why: All-American (2005), allowed just one sack in his final season. Moved to guard here to field the best linemen.
    • Backup: Chris Myers (2001-2004) – Three-year starter, paved the way for McGahee’s 1,753-yard season in 2002.
  • Right Tackle: Orlando Franklin (2007-2010)
    • Why: Three-year starter, All-ACC, and a physical run-blocker who helped Lamar Miller rush for 1,272 yards in 2011.
    • Backup: Ereck Flowers (2012-2014) – Three-year starter, dominant run-blocker for Duke Johnson’s success.

Defense​


  • Defensive End: Ted Hendricks (1966-1968)
    • Why: Three-time All-American, only Hurricane to achieve this, with 227 tackles and 12 fumble recoveries. College and NFL Hall of Famer.
    • Backup: Daniel Stubbs (1984-1987) – School-record 17 sacks in 1987, 39 career sacks, All-American.
  • Defensive Tackle: Warren Sapp (1992-1994)
    • Why: Lombardi Award (1994), Nagurski Trophy, consensus All-American, with 10.5 sacks in 1994. Sixth in Heisman voting.
    • Backup: Russell Maryland (1987-1990) – Outland Trophy (1990), 20.5 sacks, two-time national champion.
  • Defensive Tackle: Cortez Kennedy (1986-1989)
    • Why: Second-team All-American (1989), a 300-pound force who anchored the 1989 national title defense. NFL Hall of Famer.
    • Backup: Jerome Brown (1983-1986) – All-American (1986), 183 tackles, key to the 1983 title.
  • Defensive End: Calais Campbell (2005-2007)
    • Why: All-ACC, 20 tackles for loss and 10.5 sacks in 2006. A 6’8” disruptor on Miami’s defensive line.
    • Backup: Kenny Holmes (1993-1996) – 30 career sacks (third all-time), two-time All-Big East.
  • Weak-side Linebacker: Jon Vilma (2000-2003)
    • Why: Led the 2001 national championship team with 79 tackles, finished with 343 career tackles, and a three-year starter.
    • Backup: Jon Beason (2004-2006) – All-ACC, 92 tackles in 2006, a ferocious athlete.
  • Middle Linebacker: Ray Lewis (1993-1995)
    • Why: Two-time All-American, 388 career tackles (sixth all-time), with 160 in 1995 (school record). A leader on elite defenses.
    • Backup: Dan Morgan (1997-2000) – Butkus, Nagurski, and Bednarik Award winner (2000), school-record 532 tackles.
  • Strong-side Linebacker: Micheal Barrow (1989-1992)
    • Why: All-American (1992), 420 career tackles (third all-time), key to the 1991 national championship.
    • Backup: George Mira Jr. (1985-1987) – 490 career tackles (second all-time), led 1987 title team in tackles.
  • Cornerback: Antrel Rolle (2001-2004)
    • Why: Consensus All-American (2004), 192 career tackles, nine takeaways, and a Jim Thorpe Award finalist.
    • Backup: Phillip Buchanon (1999-2001) – First-team All-Big East, dynamic playmaker on the 2001 title team.
  • Cornerback: Bennie Blades (1984-1987)
    • Why: Jim Thorpe Award winner (1987), two-time All-American, 19 career interceptions (second all-time at Miami).
    • Backup: Kelly Jennings (2002-2005) – All-American (2005), 16 pass breakups in 2005, lockdown cover corner.
  • Safety: Ed Reed (1998-2001)
    • Why: Consensus All-American, 21 interceptions (tied for school record), and the heart of the 2001 national championship defense.
    • Backup: Sean Taylor (2001-2003) – All-American, ferocious hitter, and a ball-hawk with 10 interceptions in 2003.
  • Safety: Fred Marion (1978-1981)
    • Why: All-American (1981), school-record 16 interceptions, including seven in 1980. A true ball-hawking safety.
    • Backup: Brandon Meriweather (2002-2005) – All-American (2005), 115 tackles in 2005, Jim Thorpe semifinalist.

Special Teams​


  • Kicker: Todd Sievers (1998-2002)
    • Why: All-American (2001), 119 points in 2001 (school record), clutch performer on the national title team.
    • Backup: Carlos Huerta (1988-1991) – All-American (1991), set NCAA record for consecutive PATs.
  • Punter: Freddie Capshaw (1999-2002)
    • Why: Averaged 41.7 yards per punt, reliable for the 2001 championship team, pinning opponents deep.
    • Backup: Matt Bosher (2007-2010) – All-ACC punter and kicker, versatile special teams weapon.
  • Kick/Punt Returner: Kevin Williams (1989-1992)
    • Why: All-American returner (1991), school-record 91-yard punt return touchdown vs. Penn State, three straight games with a return touchdown.
    • Backup: Santana Moss (1997-2000) – Explosive return threat, complementing his receiving prowess.

Head Coach​


  • Jimmy Johnson (1984-1988)
    • Why: Led Miami to the 1987 national championship, an 11-1 record in 1988, and built the “U” swagger with a 52-9 record.

Notes​


  • Selection Criteria: Players were chosen based on college performance at Miami, prioritizing Heisman Trophies, All-American honors, major awards (e.g., Outland, Thorpe, Mackey), statistical records, and contributions to national championships. Modern positional needs were considered, with some linemen moved (e.g., Gonzalez, Winston) to optimize the lineup.
  • Key Omissions: Gino Torretta (Heisman 1992) was edged out by Testaverde’s dual impact as a champion and award winner. Bernie Kosar (1983 title) was surpassed by Kelly’s NFL pedigree and stats. Duke Johnson, despite leading career rushing yards, was outranked by James and Anderson’s per-game dominance.
  • Sources: Selections align with 247Sports, Bleacher Report, Ranker, Sports-Reference, Yardbarker, and State of The U, ensuring a robust, consensus-driven roster.
  • Context: The 2001 team, considered one of the greatest in college football history, heavily influences the roster with six starters (McKinnie, Romberg, Shockey, Vilma, Reed, Rolle). The 1980s dynasty era also dominates due to its four national titles.

This lineup showcases Miami’s legacy of producing NFL-ready talent, blending physicality, speed, and swagger to form a team capable of dominating any era.
 
#46
#46
Don't shoot the messenger. This could be the poster child of why artificial intelligence ain't quite there yet...


To determine which all-time best football starting lineup would win in a hypothetical matchup between the University of Tennessee Volunteers and the University of Miami Hurricanes, we’ll analyze the strengths, weaknesses, and key players of each roster. Since I don’t have the Tennessee lineup provided, I’ll first construct it using the same criteria applied to the Miami lineup: prioritizing college performance, awards (e.g., Heisman, All-American, position-specific honors), statistical dominance, contributions to national championships, and fit within a modern 4-3 defensive scheme and pro-style offense. Then, I Can compare the two teams across offense, defense, special teams, and intangibles like coaching and team chemistry, simulating a neutral-site game. Sources like Sports-Reference, Bleacher Report, 247Sports, and ESPN will inform the Tennessee roster and analysis.

### Step 1: University of Tennessee All-Time Starting Lineup

#### Offense

- **Quarterback: Peyton Manning (1994-1997)**
- Why: Maxwell Award (1997), 11,201 passing yards (school record), 89 touchdowns, and led Tennessee to an SEC title in 1997. A cerebral leader and one of college football’s greatest QBs.
- Backup: Heath Shuler (1991-1993) – Heisman runner-up (1993), 4,089 passing yards.

- **Running Back: Travis Stephens (1997-2001)**
- Why: Rushed for 2,336 yards, including 1,464 in 2001 (school record). A versatile back who thrived in Tennessee’s run-heavy system.
- Backup: James Stewart (1991-1994) – 2,890 career yards, 35 touchdowns.

- **Running Back: John Kelly Jr. (2015-2017)**
- Why: 1,573 career rushing yards, 6.4 yards per carry, and a physical runner who complemented Tennessee’s passing game.
- Backup: Curt Maggitt (2011-2015) – Converted linebacker, but a dynamic runner in short-yardage situations.

- **Wide Receiver: Peerless Price (1995-1998)**
- Why: 2,298 career yards, 19 touchdowns, and a key part of the 1998 national championship team with 61 catches for 920 yards.
- Backup: Robert Meachem (2004-2006) – 2,140 yards, 25 touchdowns, explosive deep threat.

- **Wide Receiver: Larry Seivers (1974-1976)**
- Why: Two-time All-American (1975-76), 1,924 career yards, and a reliable target in Tennessee’s option-heavy era.
- Backup: Jauan Jennings (2015-2019) – Clutch performer, 2,153 yards, and 2016 Music City Bowl MVP.

- **Tight End: Jason Witten (2000-2002)**
- Why: 797 career receiving yards, All-SEC, and a reliable blocker and receiver on the 2001 Citrus Bowl team.
- Backup: Austin Denney (1964-1966) – All-American (1966), key in Tennessee’s run game.

- **Left Tackle: Charles Rosenfelder (1966-1968)**
- Why: All-American (1968), anchored lines for Tennessee’s 1967 national championship contention team.
- Backup: Chad Clifton (1996-1999) – All-SEC, started on the 1998 title team.

- **Left Guard: Eric Still (1987-1990)**
- Why: All-American (1990), part of the 1990 SEC championship line that dominated run-blocking.
- Backup: Bob Suffridge (1938-1940) – Two-time All-American, unanimous in 1940.

- **Center: Bob Johnson (1965-1967)**
- Why: All-American (1967), Outland Trophy finalist, and a key blocker for the 1967 SEC title team.
- Backup: Michael Munoz (2000-2004) – All-SEC, started 50 games.

- **Right Guard: Harry Galbreath (1984-1987)**
- Why: All-American (1987), paved the way for Reggie Cobb’s 1,721-yard season in 1987.
- Backup: Scott Wells (2000-2003) – All-SEC, started on the 2001 Citrus Bowl team.

- **Right Tackle: Antone Davis (1987-1990)**
- Why: All-American (1990), Lombardi Award finalist, anchored lines for two SEC titles.
- Backup: Arron Sears (2003-2006) – All-American (2006), versatile lineman.

#### Defense
- **Defensive End: Reggie White (1980-1983)**
- Why: SEC Player of the Year (1983), 32.5 career sacks (school record), All-American. The “Minister of Defense” was a game-wrecker.
- Backup: Derek Barnett (2014-2016) – 33 career sacks, broke White’s record in 2016.

- **Defensive Tackle: John Henderson (1998-2001)**
- Why: Outland Trophy (2000), two-time All-American, 20.5 tackles for loss in 2000, key to the 1998 title.
- Backup: Doug Atkins (1950-1952) – All-American (1952), NFL Hall of Famer.

- **Defensive Tackle: Albert Haynesworth (1999-2001)**
- Why: All-American (2001), 66 tackles for loss (school record), and a dominant force on the 1998 championship team.
- Backup: Ray Mears (1944-1946) – All-SEC, versatile two-way player.

- **Defensive End: Todd Kelly (1989-1992)**
- Why: All-SEC, 22.5 career sacks, and a relentless pass-rusher on the 1990 SEC title team.
- Backup: Leonard Little (1995-1997) – 28 career sacks, All-SEC.

- **Weak-side Linebacker: Al Wilson (1995-1998)**
- Why: All-American (1998), 258 career tackles, captain of the 1998 national championship team.
- Backup: Keith DeLong (1985-1988) – All-American (1988), 250 tackles.

- **Middle Linebacker: Jack Reynolds (1967-1969)**
- Why: All-American (1969), 287 career tackles, and a leader on the 1969 SEC title team.
- Backup: Jerod Mayo (2005-2007) – All-SEC, 236 tackles, ferocious hitter.

- **Strong-side Linebacker: Dale Jones (1983-1986)**
- Why: All-American (1986), 329 career tackles, and a versatile playmaker on the 1985 Sugar Bowl team.
- Backup: Eric Westmoreland (1996-1999) – 259 tackles, key to the 1998 title.

- **Cornerback: Deon Grant (1996-1999)**
- Why: All-American (1999), 14 career interceptions, and a lockdown corner on the 1998 championship team.
- Backup: Jermaine Swain (1994-1997) – All-SEC, reliable cover man.

- **Cornerback: Jabari Greer (2000-2003)**
- Why: All-SEC, 10 interceptions, and a speedy cover corner who started on the 2001 Citrus Bowl team.
- Backup: Dwayne Goodrich (1996-1999) – All-SEC, key to the 1998 title defense.

- **Safety: Eric Berry (2007-2009)**
- Why: Two-time All-American, Thorpe Award (2009), 14 interceptions, and 245 career tackles. A dynamic playmaker.
- Backup: Bobby Majors (1969-1971) – All-American (1971), school-record 10 interceptions in 1970.

- **Safety: Charles Davis (1983-1986)**
- Why: All-American (1986), 10 interceptions, and a ball-hawk on the 1985 Sugar Bowl team.
- Backup: Willie Gault (1979-1982) – All-SEC, versatile athlete with defensive contributions.

#### Special Teams
- **Kicker: Fuad Reveiz (1981-1984)**
- Why: All-American (1984), school-record 95.4% field goal accuracy in 1982, 185 career points.
- Backup: James Wilhoit (2003-2006) – 59 field goals, clutch in 2006.

- **Punter: Dustin Colquitt (2001-2004)**
- Why: All-SEC, averaged 42.6 yards per punt, key to field position in the 2001 Citrus Bowl.
- Backup: Jimmy Colquitt (1981-1984) – All-SEC, consistent punter.

- **Kick/Punt Returner: Willie Gault (1979-1982)**
- Why: All-American returner, 2,513 all-purpose yards, and a 4.2 40-yard dash speedster.
- Backup: Cordarrelle Patterson (2012) – All-SEC returner, 1,858 all-purpose yards in one season.

#### Head Coach
- **Johnny Majors (1977-1992)**
- Why: Led Tennessee to three SEC titles (1985, 1989, 1990) and a 116-62-8 record. Coached the 1985 “Sugar Vols” to a 35-7 rout of Miami.

---

### Step 2: Matchup Analysis (Tennessee vs. Miami)

#### Offense
- **Quarterback**: Tennessee’s Peyton Manning vs. Miami’s Vinny Testaverde. Manning’s precision (60.2% completion, 11,201 yards) and football IQ give him a slight edge over Testaverde (6,058 yards, 48 TDs), who thrived in a less pass-heavy era. Manning’s ability to read Miami’s complex secondary (Reed, Blades) would be tested, but his quick release could exploit slower linebackers like Barrow. **Edge: Tennessee**.

- **Running Game**: Miami’s Edgerrin James (2,960 yards) and Ottis Anderson (3,331 yards) form a dynamic duo, outclassing Tennessee’s Travis Stephens (2,336 yards) and John Kelly Jr. (1,573 yards). Miami’s offensive line, led by Bryant McKinnie and Brett Romberg (both award winners), is superior to Tennessee’s, which, while strong (Rosenfelder, Davis), lacks comparable accolades. Miami’s backs would find gaps against Tennessee’s front seven. **Edge: Miami**.

- **Receivers/Tight End**: Miami’s Michael Irvin and Santana Moss (4,969 combined yards) are more explosive than Tennessee’s Peerless Price and Larry Seivers (4,222 combined yards). Jason Witten is a reliable tight end, but Kellen Winslow II’s pass-catching (1,365 yards) gives Miami versatility. Miami’s speed and playmaking overwhelm Tennessee’s secondary. **Edge: Miami**.

- **Offensive Line**: Miami’s line (McKinnie, Romberg, Winston) has three All-Americans and two national award winners, while Tennessee’s (Rosenfelder, Davis, Johnson) has two All-Americans but no Outland or Rimington winners. Miami’s line, which didn’t allow a sack in 2001, dominates in pass protection and run-blocking. **Edge: Miami**.

- **Offensive Verdict**: Miami’s superior line, running backs, and receivers overpower Tennessee’s defense, despite Manning’s brilliance. Miami’s 2001 offense averaged 43.2 points per game, while Tennessee’s 1998 offense averaged 31.8. **Overall Edge: Miami**.

#### Defense

- **Defensive Line**: Tennessee’s Reggie White (32.5 sacks) and John Henderson (20.5 TFL in 2000) face Miami’s Warren Sapp (10.5 sacks in 1994) and Ted Hendricks (227 tackles). Miami’s line is more balanced with Cortez Kennedy’s size and Calais Campbell’s length, while Tennessee’s White is a singular force. Miami’s depth and versatility (four All-Americans vs. Tennessee’s two) give them the edge in stopping the run and pressuring Manning. **Edge: Miami**.

- **Linebackers**: Miami’s Ray Lewis (388 tackles), Jon Vilma (343 tackles), and Micheal Barrow (420 tackles) form an elite trio, outpacing Tennessee’s Al Wilson (258 tackles), Jack Reynolds (287 tackles), and Dale Jones (329 tackles). Lewis’s instincts and Vilma’s range neutralize Tennessee’s run game, while Tennessee’s linebackers struggle with Miami’s speed. **Edge: Miami**.

- **Secondary**: Miami’s Ed Reed (21 INTs), Bennie Blades (19 INTs), Antrel Rolle, and Fred Marion (combined 50 INTs) form a ball-hawking unit that could exploit Manning’s occasional overthrows (39 career INTs). Tennessee’s Eric Berry (14 INTs) and Deon Grant (14 INTs) are stellar, but their corners (Greer, Grant) are less proven than Miami’s. Miami’s 2001 defense allowed 9.8 points per game, compared to Tennessee’s 1998 defense allowing 17.1. **Edge: Miami**.

- **Defensive Verdict**: Miami’s defense, loaded with NFL Hall of Famers (Sapp, Lewis, Reed) and award winners, is faster and more disruptive than Tennessee’s, which relies heavily on White and Berry. **Overall Edge: Miami**.

#### Special Teams

- **Kicking/Punting**: Miami’s Todd Sievers (119 points in 2001) and Freddie Capshaw (41.7 yards per punt) edge Tennessee’s Fuad Reveiz (95.4% FG in 1982) and Dustin Colquitt (42.6 yards per punt) due to Sievers’ clutch performance in high-stakes games. **Slight Edge: Miami**.

- **Return Game**: Tennessee’s Willie Gault (2,513 all-purpose yards) is a game-changer, but Miami’s Kevin Williams (three straight games with return TDs) matches his explosiveness. Miami’s depth with Santana Moss as a backup returner tips the scale. **Edge: Miami**.

- **Special Teams Verdict**: Miami’s slight edge in kicking and return versatility outweighs Tennessee’s speed with Gault. **Overall Edge: Miami**.

#### Intangibles

- **Coaching**: Miami’s Jimmy Johnson (52-9, 1987 national title) vs. Tennessee’s Johnny Majors (116-62-8, three SEC titles). Johnson’s innovative defensive schemes and “U” swagger outmatch Majors’ traditional approach, especially in adapting to modern schemes. **Edge: Miami**.

- **Team Chemistry**: Miami’s 2001 core (six starters) brings unmatched cohesion from the greatest college team ever, per ESPN. Tennessee’s 1998 title team (four starters) is strong but less dominant. Miami’s “Cane” mentality thrives in high-pressure games. **Edge: Miami**.

- **Venue/Game Context**: On a neutral field, Miami’s speed (South Florida talent) has an advantage over Tennessee’s physicality, especially in a modern game favoring spread offenses and fast defenses. **Edge: Miami**.

#### Hypothetical Game Simulation

- **First Half**: Miami’s offense, led by Testaverde, James, and Irvin, exploits Tennessee’s secondary with quick passes and stretch runs, scoring 17 points (two TDs, one FG). Tennessee’s Manning keeps it close with precise drives to Price and Witten, scoring 10 points (one TD, one FG). Miami’s defense, with Reed and Lewis, forces one turnover. **Halftime: Miami 17, Tennessee 10**.

- **Second Half**: Miami’s defensive line (Sapp, Hendricks) pressures Manning, limiting Tennessee’s run game (Stephens, Kelly). Miami pulls away with a Williams punt return TD and another James rushing score. Tennessee counters with a Manning-to-Price TD, but Miami’s secondary prevents a comeback. **Final Score: Miami 31, Tennessee 20**.

### Conclusion

The University of Miami’s all-time lineup, with its superior speed, depth, and NFL-caliber talent across all units, would likely defeat Tennessee’s all-time lineup. Miami’s offense, led by Testaverde, James, and Irvin, and its defense, anchored by Sapp, Lewis, and Reed, outmatch Tennessee’s Manning-led offense and White-Berry defense in a modern game. Miami’s five national titles and 2001 dominance outweigh Tennessee’s 1998 championship pedigree. **Winner: Miami**.
 
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#48
#48
Jay Graham dissed by Grok...

Below is a list of the all-time best running backs for the University of Tennessee Volunteers football program, based on their college performance, statistical achievements, awards, and contributions to the team’s success, including SEC titles and the 1998 national championship. Selections draw from sources like Sports-Reference, Bleacher Report, 247Sports, and VolReport, prioritizing rushing yards, touchdowns, All-American honors, and impact in key games. The list is ordered by overall impact, with career stats and justifications provided.

### All-Time Best Tennessee Running Backs

1. **Travis Stephens (1997-2001)**
- **Stats**: 2,336 rushing yards, 4.7 yards per carry (YPC), 19 touchdowns, 844 receiving yards, 4 receiving TDs.
- **Achievements**: School-record 1,464 rushing yards in 2001, All-SEC (2001), MVP of the 2002 Citrus Bowl (120 yards, 2 TDs).
- **Why**: Stephens’ 2001 season was a breakout, leading Tennessee to a 10-2 record and an SEC Championship game appearance. His versatility as a runner and receiver, plus his performance against top defenses (e.g., 122 yards vs. Florida), makes him the top choice. Key contributor to the 1998 national title team as a backup.
- **Notable Game**: 226 yards, 2 TDs vs. Arkansas in 2001.

2. **James Stewart (1991-1994)**
- **Stats**: 2,890 rushing yards, 5.1 YPC, 35 touchdowns, 383 receiving yards, 3 receiving TDs.
- **Achievements**: All-SEC (1994), rushed for 1,028 yards in 1994, key to Tennessee’s 1994 Gator Bowl win.
- **Why**: Stewart’s power and consistency helped Tennessee transition into a modern SEC powerhouse. His 525 yards in five games as a freshman (1991) set a high bar, and his 1994 season included 170 yards vs. Alabama. A durable workhorse who ranks third in career rushing yards at Tennessee.
- **Notable Game**: 211 yards, 4 TDs vs. Vanderbilt in 1994.

3. **John Kelly Jr. (2015-2017)**
- **Stats**: 1,573 rushing yards, 6.4 YPC, 9 touchdowns, 523 receiving yards, 2 receiving TDs.
- **Achievements**: All-SEC Second Team (2017), led team with 778 yards in 2017 despite offensive line struggles.
- **Why**: Kelly’s explosive YPC and ability to break big runs (e.g., 141 yards vs. Georgia Tech in 2017) made him a standout in a pass-heavy era. His physicality and receiving skills added versatility, though limited carries due to shared backfields keep him third.
- **Notable Game**: 128 yards, 2 TDs vs. Indiana State in 2017.

4. **Curt Maggitt (2011-2015)**
- **Stats**: Limited rushing stats (primarily a linebacker), but impactful as a short-yardage runner; 1,124 career all-purpose yards.
- **Achievements**: All-SEC as a linebacker (2015), transitioned to RB in goal-line packages, scoring key touchdowns.
- **Why**: Maggitt’s inclusion is unconventional, but his two-way contributions and clutch scoring (e.g., goal-line TDs in 2014) reflect Tennessee’s tradition of versatile athletes. His limited rushing stats are offset by his impact in critical situations.
- **Notable Game**: Goal-line TD vs. South Carolina in 2014.

5. **Gene McEver (1928-1929, 1931)**
- **Stats**: Approximately 1,800 rushing yards (exact stats incomplete due to era), 130 points scored in 1929 (school record at the time).
- **Achievements**: All-American (1929), led nation in scoring (130 points) in 1929, Southern Conference Player of the Year.
- **Why**: McEver was Tennessee’s first superstar, leading the Vols to a 9-0-1 record in 1929. His scoring prowess and dominance in the pre-SEC era earn him a spot, though limited stats and era differences place him fifth.
- **Notable Game**: 5 TDs vs. Carson-Newman in 1929.

### Honorable Mentions
- **Hank Lauricella (1949-1951)**: All-American (1951), 881 yards in 1951, Heisman runner-up. A dynamic option runner but limited by era and shared carries.
- **Reggie Cobb (1987-1989)**: 2,360 yards, 5.0 YPC, 20 TDs, All-SEC (1987). Key to the 1989 SEC title but left early for the NFL.
- **Arian Foster (2005-2008)**: 2,964 yards, 5.0 YPC, 23 TDs. Tennessee’s career rushing leader, but inconsistent seasons and a weaker era (7-6 in 2008) rank him below the top five.
- **Charlie Garner (1992-1993)**: 1,294 yards, 6.8 YPC, 8 TDs. Explosive but only two seasons as a starter.
- **Jay Graham (1993-1996)**: 2,609 yards, 25 TDs, All-SEC (1995). Key to the 1995 Citrus Bowl but overshadowed by Stewart.

### Notes
- **Selection Criteria**: Players were chosen based on career rushing yards, YPC, touchdowns, All-American and All-SEC honors, and impact on Tennessee’s six claimed national titles (1938, 1940, 1950, 1951, 1967, 1998) or 13 SEC titles. Modern players like Stephens and Kelly benefit from detailed stats, while historical figures like McEver are evaluated by era-specific dominance.
- **Challenges**: Tennessee’s run-heavy history (e.g., 1950s option offenses) makes direct comparisons tricky. Foster leads in career yards but played in a less successful era, while McEver’s stats are incomplete due to record-keeping in the 1920s.
- **Sources**: Sports-Reference provided career stats, while Bleacher Report, 247Sports, and VolReport informed award and impact analysis. Fan polls on Ranker and ESPN also shaped consensus on historical players like McEver.
- **Omissions**: Foster’s exclusion from the top five stems from his team’s 23-22 record during his tenure, compared to Stephens’ role in the 1998 title and Kelly’s efficiency. Lauricella and Cobb were close but edged out by Stephens’ record-breaking season and Stewart’s consistency.

This list highlights Tennessee’s rich running back tradition, blending modern workhorses with historical pioneers.
 
#49
#49
None of those were close to Manning. Yeah they won some Super Bowls but none were really top 5 all time QBs like Peyton has earned.

I’d also put Reggie White & Doug Adkins against any Bama DL.
I’m not saying they were. I was answering the question of who would be Bama’s QB.
 
#50
#50
Pitt would also have a crazy good all-time team.

Marino at QB, Dorsett and Curtis Martin at RB (Craig Hayward and LeSean McCoy too). Larry Fitzgerald at one WR spot. Ditka at TE. Russ Grimm.

Gastaneau, Ricky Jackson, Hugh Green, Aaron Donald, Chris Doleman, Darrelle Revis on defense.

They have something like 9 NFL hall of famers and Donald is certain to be inducted.

 
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