I live in Jefferson City, TN and I've seen several UT games and of course it's all over around here. It's kind of hard to find an unbiased opinion of the Vols down here but from what I can see they have a decent offensive game. I'd be suprised if they're run defense can do much against our run offense. Crompton is a middle of the road quarterback and if he isn't tryin to force a win he can manage the game. I don't see much of a threat from the passing game from the Big Orange. They're running game with Hardesty and Brown (especially if Brown is fully recovered) is going to be a little more dicey and really test our linebackers. I think Grimm will be up to the task and I think Rivers is a great up and comer but depending who we have on that other spot we could be in trouble Gibson is holding his own, but I think Jake Johnson is hungry to have a big game (I've got no real reason for this, but that I've spoken with his mom about it and that it's killing him that he hasn't been able to contribute the way he wants to).
Our offense vs. the Tennessee defense I think is going to be the real key to the game. If Tyrod plays the way that he has down the stretch we are going to have an easier time, but that all depends on the play of the o-line too. I will say about Taylor though he has limited his mistakes and seems to be taking the role of game manager (although when called upon he has the skills to make a big play: see plays at the end of the Nebraska game and the "almost sacked" pass to Boykin during the NC State game). I think the over all key is not getting away from the running game once it gets rolling (if it gets rolling). Williams is one of the most dynamic tailbacks in the country and once he gets momentum it's really hard to stop him. He is also very disciplined at securing the ball which would cut down on turnovers. I'd like to see Stinespring spread the ball out to the flats with Wilson if that option is available.
The special teams has been discussed thoroughly on here and I think it's obvious Tech has the real advantage here. Bottom line comes down to if Beamer can prepare his team the way he needs to in order win a bowl game. It seems like the past few years the main problem during bowl season has been that we werent ready for it, like it was just a vacation. Beamer has to treat it as a business trip. It'll be interesting to see how Kiffin gets his team ready for his first bowl game as well.
All in all this game should be a great one. Smash mouth football with some big defensive plays thrown in there. If Tech gets the running game going and limits turnovers I see Tech winning by ten if not then Tennessee could run away with it.
