Neyland is a great atmosphere, but this weekend won't be its showcase. We are going to be nervous, tight, fidgety - the players, coaches and especially the crowd. And unfortunately this isn't one of the games that we wait for all offseason. No offense to Southern Miss, because I really respect their program, but this isn't going to be the environment you would get 10 years ago when we would play FL, GA or AL, back when Tennessee was a powerhouse and Neyland was an intimidating place to play.
If we fall behind early the vultures are going to start circling.
However, if Tennessee does manage not to come out flat, which would surprise me, and get a nice lead early, the crowd will get into it.