PassedOutAwake
R.I.P RichRollin
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- Jan 16, 2013
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Current Commit News:
QB Recruiting:
RB Recruiting:
Longsnapper Recruiting:
LB Recruiting:
DLine Recruiting:
- Josh Malone finishes a 5* #27 in final Rivals100
- Jalen Hurd finishes a 5* #33 in final Rivals100
- Dillon Bates finishes a 4* #41 in final Rivals100
- Todd Kelly finishes a 4* #66 in finals Rivals100
- Dewayne Hendrix finishes a 4* #78 in final Rivals100
- Helm - 120 in Rivals250
- Derek Barnett - 169 in Rivals250
- Kevin Mouhon - 209 in Rivals250
- D'Andre Payne - 230 in Rivals250
- Rashaan Gaulden - 232 in Rivals250
- LB Dillon Bates, Ponte Vedra, Fla. (up 26 to No. 41): "Bates has excellent instincts. He's a physical kid who loves to run to the ball and hit and he's excellent in coverage. He was always around the ball during Under Armour week and you could tell how he was diagnosing plays and getting where he needed to be before anyone else." -- Mike Farrell, Rivals.com National Recruiting Director
- Kevin Mouhon: "There are some rumblings that Mouhon's visit may have been more serious than first expected and we have had several people back that theory up on Sunday. While Tennessee still seems like the ending destination, Mouhon and his family are taking Cincinnati seriously from some we've talked to." -Fortenberry
- Dewayne Hendrix: "Also, Missouri continues to give the full-court press for Dewayne Hendrix. The Tigers are hoping to get him on campus again for an unofficial visit so that's one we are keeping are eye on down the stretch as well." -Fortenberry
- Dewayne Hendrix: "Both Missouri and Tennessee are trying to get him to campus one last time. I'm not sure he will take either but I believe they are trying. I'm also not sure if Pinkel has been in the house or not. Still trying to find out what his plans are down the stretch. I think Tennessee is going to hold on here, but they are going to have to fight for him." -Fortenberry
- Joe Henderson: "I just look at it like another roadblock I have to get over," Henderson said. "I know I'm going to be down there in May. It was hard on me and my family but we know we can't live in the past and we have to look at the bigger picture. I still have my scholarship, I don't have to go to a juco or whatever and it didn't really sit on me because I did do a lot to try to get in but it just didn't work out. But, I will be down there in May and that's how I look at it." "I've been talking to coach Jones, coach Strip and coach Elder for a while and I've known coach Jones for three or four years now and he's been going with me the whole way," Henderson explained. "Anything I needed I know I could call him and ask him and it feels good to have that type of people to have them in my corner." "They just said they need my speed and quickness and they want me to sack the quarterback. They want me to be that defensive end and stand-up linebacker. They really see my speed helping the defensive line and getting after the quarterback." -VQ
- Kevin Mouhon: "I think it's going to be more interesting on Mouhon than I first thought. Cincy thinks they are in there and I think Mouhon is a bit worried about the number of linebackers Tennessee has committed." -Hubbs
- Joe Henderson: Is Henderson still in HS or has he graduated? "He's taking a couple of courses from what I understand. Honestly, he did alot of work in a short period of time to try and make the mid-term enrolling possible and timing just got him. He wasn't going to get cleared and declared eligible before the add/drop deadline and so he couldn't enroll. He's plan is to be here in May for mini-term and I would expect him to be a pretty driven player" -Hubbs
- Jashon Robertson: "Head Coach Derek Mason reached out to Jashon Robertson by phone last night and wanted to meet with him in person. Jay sent Coach Mason the following text after the conversation. "Coach appreciate you reaching out to me and everything, but UT is the place where I want to be. It wasn't a spontaneous decision. I've always enjoyed UT. With that being said, I'm going to remain loyal to my commitment. There is no need for us to meet tomorrow. Thank you for your time." - B.Simmons.
- Berry4Heisman says Vic Wharton may take a visit to ND
- Gavin Bryant: "Just dropping by from the Miami side of the house. Tennessee LB commit Gavin Bryant had told us a few weeks ago he was planning an official visit to Miami one of the last 2 weekends. I caught up with him a few minutes ago and that won't be happening anymore. He said he got everything he was hoping for out of his visit to Knoxville this weekend. He sounded confident he would be sticking with his pledge." - Nate Adelson 24/7
- Cory Thomas: " Thomas will be among a dozen or so official visitors at Mississippi State this weekend, and then conclude his trips next weekend. "I'll be at Mississippi State this weekend and then to Tennessee on Jan. 31st," said the 6-foot-6 and 270-pound Thomas. "I just want to have a great time at both places and at the end of the day, go where I feel the most comfortable." "I've been to Clemson for a game, too, and I've been to Tennessee two or three times," said Thomas. "Then I've been to Mississippi State several times but it was just to camp or games or junior day. I've hung out for a whole weekend at Tennessee but I've never spent the whole weekend in Starkville. So that visit will be basically to see all the surroundings and just to hang out." "With Tennessee, I talk to their coaches about a couple of times a week and they have a good staff and good coaches," said Thomas. "And they make me feel wanted. With Mississippi State, if I de-committed they would be my No. 1 choice. I am still committed but Mississippi State has been on me even after I committed. And I'm not gonna lie, I like it there." "I've been going over the list with my dad and Tennessee has like 35 commits and eight defensive linemen," said Thomas. "And Mississippi State and Clemson only have one defensive tackle committed right now. I am just looking at those things and other things and make my final decision on signing day. "I kinda expected it to be like this and be tough down the stretch and for schools to still come hard at me. And I have to say my best relationships is with the Mississippi State coaches. My parents are just listening to me discuss my future and they are leaving it up to me. They want me to go where I want to go and go where I feel the most comfortable for the next four or five years." - 247
- Gavin Bryant: "My favorite part was walking out on the field and they turned the lights on and they started playing the music. It brought me some chills," Bryant said. "I started jumping up and down started getting hype." -VQ
- Joe Henderson: it was heartbreaking, knowing everything that i had to go through to try to get to that point of being an early enrollee taking online classes, taking eight or nine classes in school. its disappointing, but ive got to look to the upside. Ive still got my scholarship, and i can still make it down there in may. Ive just got to look on the bright side, really. I cant really ponder on the past. Im just looking for the future. i mean, everything is looking up right now, he said. i talked to my counselor, and im probably going to be back in school january 27th, because thats when the third quarter starts for my high school. Im going to be back in school, and im going to just grind these three classes out and get the credits that i need, and ill be out by may. im sold on ut, henderson said. ive done closed the door. Im not going to reopen it back up. I told coach (butch) jones theyre like family, so i aint going to do that to my family just leave them just because something didnt follow through as planned. Im sticking with ut. i mean, its just about what i bring to the table and how i bring it, henderson said. i wont say (that enrolling in may) a setback, but i wont say it helps me. Its just how big i am, how hard i work before i get down there and then how hard i work when i get down there. Its just about having the heart and having the drive to try to do something. - 247
- Jancek visits Chris Weatherd
- Gavin Bryant: "It was nice knowing how much the appreciated me to let me help celebrate his birthday. It meant a lot," Bryant said. "It was really exciting." "I walked in the freshmen and sophomore dorm rooms and all the guys treated me like they had all known me for fives years and we had known each other our whole lives and then I got to see the stadium and stuff. I just felt like I was at home." "I went to coach Thig's office and watched film and just showing me the basic stuff they run. He was showing me some plays and he would ask me what I'm supposed to do and I would hit the nail on the head with the answer." -VQ
- Gavin Bryant: it went great. It went just how i wanted it to go. It felt like i was at home[.] i went to all the top restaurants up there, and the coaches treated me well and showed me love. It gave me a better feel than i had the last time, because last time i didnt do too much. I just got to tour the buildings and all that with the coaches. I met the coaches not only on the field, but outside of the field, and they treated me the same. my mom, dad, grandma, granddad and an uncle (came with me), bryant said. they were telling me, go on and get the papers now. Go on and sign. all the coaches were around me the whole time i was up there. Coach jones, he was with me every time we ate, bryant said. me and coach thig, we got to sit down and talk, bryant said. me, coach thig, my dad, my granddad and my uncle, we all sat in the office talking football, and he was telling me he might use me at any of the starting linebacker spots, because i can play all of them. He said it could be any one of them whichever one fits me the best. i dont see that changing, he added. i want to get on the field early, and i know auburns deep. Miami aint too deep. But its just something about tennessee thats got me there. - 247
- Hendrix: "I think Tennessee keeps him, but like I said, it's worth keeping an eye on down the stretch because Missouri is putting on the full-court press." - Fortenberry
- Hendrix: "Right now, I think Tennessee is fine there. Missouri is trying really hard. Remember Hendrix and his family have ties to the state with family and Jones hasn't been in the house there. But the Vols must stay relentless with him." - Hubbs
- Hendrix: When will Jones have the in home? And who will go with him? "Possibly late this week, but more than likely next week some time. Jones, Stripling and Azzanni would be my bet. They all keep in touch with him regularly. I think Hendrix will be a Vol." -Fortenberry
- Kevin Mouhon: "I don't think I would tell him he's not welcome, but I don't think they are happy about the Cincinnati official visit, either. We will see how that one plays out. Cincinnati seems pretty confident about that one after talking to some people last night." -Fortenberry
- Mouhon: "I don't think the staff has told Mouhon to look around. However, if Mouhon is seriously considering Cincinnati then I think Tennessee could recruit or try to recruit passed him. I would think Tennessee is putting Mouhon on the spot here seeing where he stays. The rumbling is that Mouhon has some concerns about the number of linebackers committed to Tennessee. But remember Mouhon is not talking. So the Cincy stuff that's coming out from the writer up there is coming from the Cincy side and not from Mouhon. I don't think Bryant and Mouhon go hand in hand." - Hubbs
- Mouhon: "I think there's a good chance Mouhon isn't in this class. Cincinnati is pretty confident they are going to get him." -Fortenberry
- Cortez McDowell: It went good. It was just a chance for me to be around the coaches again, and for my mom and family, and a chance to just regroup and have a good time together[.] They came to the house. We had, like, a cookout my moms side of the family where we were all together, so we just cooked, and then Coach Jones, Martinez and Thigpen, they came over and we had, like, a big feast. Really didnt talk much football. We pretty much were just catching up with each other. Its been a couple weeks since Ive heard from one of those schools. As of right now, everythings solid (with Tennessee), he said. Its been awhile (since I talked with Auburn), so, since signing day is pretty close, I think we have pretty much parted and gone our two different ways now. They treat everybody as if theyre their own kids and how most people treat their own kids, he said. That speaks volumes to myself and to my family. We like high-character people, so for them to do that for not just myself, but every kid that sets foot on the campus as a recruit and people that they go out and visit, it just speaks volumes. You really dont hear anybody complain or talk negative about Tennessees coaches, and thats really a big thing for me the feedback that people give about Tennessees coaches." - 247
- "But, Hendrix isn't the only lineman committed to Tennessee the Tigers are after. Missouri has targeted Derek Barnett as well and there's been some communication there the last several days. Barnett is scheduled to be in Knoxville this weekend for his official visit so we will see if he shuts it down after this weekend or continues to listen to the Tigers." -Hubbs
- Hendrix: "There have been a lot of questions about Dewayne Hendrix this week and look for him to possibly take a visit to Missouri this weekend. Contrary to early thought, Hendrix never took an official visit to Mizzou. Instead, he took an unofficial visit during the season when he was scheduled for an official. Even if Hendrix takes that visit it's going to be very hard for the Tigers to pry away Hendrix from the Vols. His family overwhelmingly wants to see him in Knoxville but it seems Hendrix is listening to the Tigers' final pitch and will make a visit this weekend. Look for Tennessee's staff to see him late this week, likely Thursday, and then see him very late next weekend for Jones' in-home visit." -Fortenberry
- Weatherd: "John Jancek was in Texas on Tuesday to see linebacker commitment Chris Weatherd." - VQ
- Cory Thomas: 1/31 is Cory going to OV? "I expect Thomas with visit. The plan the whole time has been for Tennessee to get the final visit with Thomas." -Hubbs
- Hendrix from Mizzou site: "Hearing some talk that Dewayne Hendrix is going to be in town this weekend. We're going to do our best to verify that today. We had thought Hendrix had already used his official to Mizzou the weekend of the South Carolina game. But someone told me that one was switched to an unofficial at the last minute when Dewayne's mom couldn't make the trip. If that's accurate (and I'm not positive yet) it means he still could take an official this weekend. Either way, I know that Tennessee folks are certainly paying attention to Hendrix and Mizzou, but the general feeling still seems to be that it would surprise most if he switched. Mizzou's success putting defensive linemen in the NFL is a factor and it has Hendrix's attention, but it may not be enough to overcome all the family connections to the Vols." - Gabe D.
- Mouhon: Will Mouhon OV on 1/31 to UT? "Right now, I expect Mouhon will visit." -Hubbs
- Have the coaches been out to see Mouhon, Hendrix and C. Thomas since the dead period ended? "They have seen them every week. We don't know every stop they make or when they make it. We noted they where with Hendrix last Friday and with Thomas and Mouhon. They will see them this week as well as next week." -Hubbs
- Barnett Per FranklinVol on VQ. "Coach Strip and Coach Thig were at BA today and took DB and his mom to dinner tonight. Strip was supposed to go to Madison but Butch redirected to Nashville. It's all good. I found out tonight that Hugh Freeze has been by the school as well as Clemson and others. No one has stopped recruiting Derek. That said, he will be in Knoxville this weekend with Vic, Rashaan, TK, Moseley and other commits for his official. I absolutely love these guys that I've met and their families. Really good people! There's more funny stuff that I will share some day but things are good. Stress over some other guys for awhile."
- Hendrix: "I spoke tonight with Tennessee commitment Dewayne Hendrix, a Top247 defensive end from O'Fallon (Ill.) High School, and he said he's scheduled to take an official visit to Missouri this weekend.
- Hendrix said his mother has told him it wouldn't hurt anything for him to spend the weekend visiting the Tigers, and he's going simply to take another look at Missouri and make sure he doesn't see something there that he didn't see the first time he visited. He only has been to Missouri once, for the Tigers' game against South Carolina back in late October the day before he announced his commitment to UT. Still, Hendrix said he thinks it will "almost be impossible" for Missouri to change his mind about his commitment to the Vols, and he made it clear that he's still pretty firmly committed to Tennessee. But he admitted that UT's coaches have been a bit worried about him since hearing about Missouri's involvement." - 247
- Mouhon: "I think there's been some settling down after the Cincinnati visit. He's still expected to visit next weekend from what I understand. We are still trying to talk to him." -Fortenberry
- Hendrix: Its probably going to almost be impossible to change my mind about Tennessee. But I still just want to give them respect. They came out here and saw me, so I want to see what they can show me. A lot of colleges say that (I could play early), but I know for a fact that I have the opportunity to do that at Tennessee, Hendrix said. I mean, I could probably play early at Mizzou, but Id rather just do it at Tennessee because the depth chart is a lot smaller. Theyve been worried (about Missouri) a little bit. But, I mean, they know Im committed to them, so its not going to change, Hendrix said of Tennessees coaches. Ive always had a good relationship with them. I really feel like theyre part of my family now, and I want to just go in there and produce so we can reach our goal, which is to win a national championship, because weve got the talent to do it already. -247
- Hendrix from Mizzou Rivals: "A few days ago, I'd have told you I considered Hendrix a big-time long shot for the Tigers. I still think they're probably playing catch-up, but there has been some talk among people I talk to that Missouri is more of a threat than I would have thought a couple of days ago. I know the Tennessee staff is having an in-home tonight. They'll have "several" coaches there from what I'm told. Tonight is big for the Tigers chances. If he hosts the UT staff and still makes the visit to Columbia this weekend, the chances go up exponentially, IMO. Scheduling the in-home visits is a really strategic thing. It's smart of Tennessee to get in there the night before he's supposed to leave for Mizzou and put the hard sell on him. Again, Hendrix is scheduled to be here this weekend (as I posted yesterday, the visit that was supposed to be an official in October ended up being an unofficial, so he's in line to get the full red carpet treatment this weekend), but this is a situation where anything could happen in the next 24 hours. I wouldn't count on anything on this one until he's confirmed to be on campus. But if he makes it, things could get real interesting in the last two weeks." - Gabe D. Mizzou Rivals - 1/23/14
- Thigpen and Jones visit Cory Thomas on Thursday per Fortenberry.
- Kevin Mouhon decommits from Tennessee
- Kevin Mouhon: "I'm not sure what he means by planned. I think that Mouhon surprised the coaching staff last week when he visited Cincinnati and they talked following his visit there I think the two sides probably saw it best that they part ways." -Hubbs
- Jerome Dews visits UT: "Jerome Dews will visit this weekend it appears, but that remains a fluid situation to watch down the stretch, whether Dews is a 2014 prospect or beyond." - VQ
- "What a busy week for Tennessee coaches and that includes the head man, Butch Jones. Jones went right to work on Sunday visiting with Cortez McDowell (who is planning on being in Knoxville this weekend for an unofficial visit) and spent the rest of the week on the road and that included Thursday when he saw both Gavin Bryant and Cory Thomas." -VQ
- "Interestingly enough Hendrix isn't the only lineman Missouri is coming after as Derek Barnett had an in-home visit with Missouri coaches earlier this week. That was followed up by a Thigpen and Stripling visit with Barnett. Barnett will make his way to Knoxville as one of several visitors and the goal will be to have him shut it down after the visit. There's no doubt Missouri's aim is to have Barnett visit that last weekend and we will all be waiting to see what he said after his visit." -VQ
- Cory Thomas: "Thomas said the depth charts at the schools he's still considering, Tennessee, Mississippi State and Clemson, are very important to him. "It's really important because I plan on coming in and contributing to the team as much as possible as a freshman," Thomas said. "The thing with me is family. That's basically what I'm looking for in a place, a home for the next three, four or five years, whatever the case may be," Thomas said. "I'm just looking to see how much of a family they are because last week at Clemson I found out how much family means to their program. "I had a great visit to Clemson this past weekend." For Tennessee to keep the defensive lineman in the fold, Thomas said he wants to feel the love from the Vol program. "Show me more than everybody else has shown me and making me feel love," Thomas said. "The word coach Jones used (Thursday) was trust. It's about who you can trust. That's real big." -VQ
- Official Visitors for the weekend of 1/25: Derek Barnett, Vic Wharton, Rashaan Gaulden, Todd Kelly Jr, Wesley Horky, Jerome Dews, Darrel Williams
- Mouhon: "Let's start with the Kevin Mouhon news and by taking a deep breath. This wasn't a shock, nor was it something that wasn't mutual. The Vols feel very comfortable with what they're adding at the linebacker position, want to have a couple spots open to seek to reel in big fish down the stretch and some players ---- it's happened in-state this week as well --- have taken looks at the Vols' depth chart, recruiting class and decided they might be better served elsewhere." -VQ
- Mouhon: "I think there was some concern about his speed based on his whole senior tape. Not just one game. But, Tennessee didn't cut after seeing his senior tape. They were set to sign him a week ago. But when Mouhon took the visit to Cincinnati it opened some honest discussions between the two about where they were and what they were feeling. The result is that Mouhon felt like Tennessee wasn't the right fit and the two sides parted ways. It will be interesting to see if any other schools call Mouhon or if he's heading to Cincinnati." -Hubbs
- Hendrix: "Friday Jancek along with Steve Stripling will meet with Dewayne Henrix as Hendrix is set to take an official visit to Missouri he confirmed with Volquest Thursday night. Hendrix didn't have much to say about the visit saying, 'I was just wanting to look at Missouri. I just want to check it out.' His family still wants to see him at Tennessee and while he's taking that official visit and Tennessee is going to have to fight to hold on to him, he is still the Vols' to lose. Look for Jones and several more coaches in to see Hendrix late next week as the try and do everything they can to hold on the Rivals100 defensive lineman." - VQ
- Hendrix: Per Steve Wiltfong of 247: "Just talked to Brandon Joggerst, the head coach at O'Fallon. Not sure what Ryan and the guys have reported here but Joggerst tells me Hendrix is still very happy with Tennessee. With that being said, Hendrix could still visit Mizzou this weekend. Mizzou was in the school yesterday. Tennessee had Stripping and Azzanni in yesterday as well. They may have stopped the visit. We'll see if he shows up in Columbia. Joggerst thought Dewayne was happy with the Vols but couldn't say for sure what he'd do on NSD."
- Hendrix takes an OV to Mizzou
- Hendix: "...Our guys from Volquest did tell me that Hendrix's mother has been a proponent of him going to Tennessee throughout the process and they couldn't see him making a switch if mom wasn't on the trip. We have not 100% confirmed that his mother was on the trip, but I do know it was expected she would be..." - Mizzou rivals
- Dews: "Just talked to Horky and Dews... Just a couple of quick notes as guys start to make their way out of town. As for Dews, he said his visit was excellent and he's now up to 6-4, 198 pounds. He's grown over an inch since he was last in Knoxville this summer. He said another visit is still possible but wasn't sure right now. He is very committed to Tennessee." -Fortenberry
- Dews: "It was excellent. It was 100 percent excellent," Dews said leaving Knoxville. "Leaving coach Jones house and the boat ride were the best parts. The boat tour down the (Tennessee) River was awesome." "It was exciting. The coaches were telling me what I would play when I got down here and stuff like that," Dews said. "They said they were going to make me eat so much every day and coach Lawson is going to work us to death." "They told me I would play the same thing Curt Maggitt would play. This year he's going to do a lot of blitzing and rushing off the edge," Dews explained. "So, what he plays this year I will be playing," Dews explained. "I just want to be in a position to sack the quarterback." "It was good. They other two times I was here for we just always bond like a family," Dews offered. "We got to build a good relationship because I don't live in Tennessee like the other guys do and get to see each other often. But, I love my future teammates." -VQ
- Preston Williams: "It's grown," said Williams, who committed to the Volunteers back on Sept. 20. "It's stronger now. I'm a solid commit. It ain't gonna change. You won't hear me talking about any other college." "It was a good experience," Williams told InsideTennessee. "I love this place. Can't dream of nothing else, can't say nothing bad about this place. It's a great place to be." "It means a lot, man," Williams said. "Tennessee is going to be winning bowl games for at least the next 5-6 years. Tennessee's on the map right now." -scout
- Gaulden: "Just spoke to Gaulden, He raved about the visit; said it was great seeing the Vol family gel together and that weekends like that are what nailed down his decision. Really complimentary of the presence of all the coaches' wives contributing to the Vols' family atmosphere. Said that his player hosts were Josh Malone and Jakob Johnson and that both gave him really good advice about being ready when he arrives in Knoxville. He and Vic Wharton will have a joint signing day ceremony at Independence High School, and Rashaan said that he expected to see Butch again this week, midweek. Targeting some weight gain right now and said he and Vic have been going hard in the weight room. Wants to "be able to provide some licks" on RBs like Todd Gurley, Derrick Henry, etc., when he's a Vol in the fall." -John Brice
- Gaulden: "He is the most fearless player at the safety spot I've seen coming in since E.B. Guy could be a factor at wide receiver, but he loves playing defense. And now he's adding muscle mass but running track as well to get stronger without losing speed and agilities. I'd argue him as a top-3 player in-state and a five-star candidate had he played all four years in high school. Paul and I have raved about his game since seeing him as a fearless but scrawny sophomore working out with IFM/Playmakers Academy at Pearl-Cohn three years ago." - Brice
- Kelly: "Kelly said he also spent some time talking with some of the other visitors on campus, including LSU running back commitment Darrel Williams of Marrero, La., and UT defensive line commitment Derek Barnett. Kelly seems to think Barnett is likely to stick with the Vols, and Williams indicated to Kelly that he might visit Texas A&M or UCLA or maybe both before he makes his final decision." - Callahan 247
- Kelly: "It was good," Kelly said. "I really enjoyed it. This time I mainly got to hang out with the guys on the team. I got to hang out with the early enrollees. I got more of the college feel on this visit." "They said to show up and be mentally ready," Kelly said. "The college level is serious and it takes dedication and a level of focus that is second to none. "It was cool," Kelly said. "When we were on the water we got to see the big houses built on the lake and go up beside Neyland Stadium. It was a cool setup because we got to play video games on the boat. They had everything." "It was cool," Kelly said. "It was always something we dreamed of when we were growing up. I know Vic and I always talked about that when we were younger. It was so cool to see what the future holds and it was a great experience." -VQ
- Hendrix and Barnett: A post by Franklinvol on VQ... "I know someone that was in Knoxville this weekend with the group besides Derek. I was just told that Butch told my friend on Saturday night that Hendrix's mom had texted him reassuring him about Hendrix. Then, my friend spoke with Butch late this afternoon that Hendrix had called Butch and basically reaffirmed his commitment to UT. TIFWIW. If I were you, I would wait for BRAJP to confirm but just thought I would pass this along. Derek's visit went incredibly well. Had updates yesterday and today but should have a more definitive update either later tonight or tomorrow but I'm out of town tomorrow and will be on mobile so I'm hoping tonight. BTW, I can tell you that Derek's mom is all in for UT. Ironically, she was the one to worry about 6 months ago but she is 100% Vol now. That's pretty much all I know as of right now."
- Hendrix: First off, while we weren't able to reach Dewayne Hendrix on Sunday following his official visit to Missouri, several sources around Hendrix and his recruitment conveyed that he didn't leave Missouri letting them know of a flip or anything of that nature. On the other hand, Tennessee had communication with Hendrix's mother throughout the weekend and that communication was certainly positive for the Vols. Butch Jones and a large contingent of Tennessee assistant coaches will be in East St. Louis at the end of the week to see Hendrix and his family as signing day draws closer. There is obviously nothing concrete from Hendrix himself so we will wait until he talks to know exactly how much Missouri is in play or if the Vols have seemingly weathered the storm. -Fortenberry
- Barnett: Another prospect that was tough to reach Sunday after his official visit was Derek Barnett. Barnett was quiet after his official visit this weekend and don't be surprised if Barnett took another visit next weekend. All indications were that is official visit to Tennessee went very well, but it seems as though the Vols are going to have to continue to fight here for Barnett as Missouri isn't the only school to come after him. Ole Miss is pushing hard for a visit and there are other schools out there that are trying to get several Nashville prospects on campus next weekend. Butch Jones also has his in-home visit left with Barnett this week and that looks likely to be midweek at some point." -Fortenberry
- Cory Thomas: "Finally, Cory Thomas was also not wanting to talk today about his Mississippi State visit. That one continues to look like one the Vols are really going to have to battle for him as well. Look for Tommy Thigpen to meet with him on Thursday in Alabama before Thomas is scheduled to visit the Vols this weekend for his official visit." -Fortenberry
QB Recruiting:
- "Also, we continue to hear Tennessee is still evaluating several quarterbacks in the class of 2014 and several are still listening. Nothing may come of it, but we hear offensive coordinator Mike Bajakian is still looking to add to his quarterback unit." -Fortenberry
RB Recruiting:
- Derrell Scott: "Four-star RB Derrell Scott made his official visit to Florida over the weekend and I spoke with multiple sources recently to get a gauge on his recruitment , which is now in the final week with Scott due to announce on January 27. Going into the trip to Gainesville, I was told that the Gators would have to blow Scott away to get up there with South Carolina and Tennessee, the two programs that have been the primary contenders. According to what I've heard, that did not happen. In addition to that, it appears that while it was thought that Florida may take another running back in this class it does not look like the Gator staff is going to push for Scott anyways which leaves the Gamecocks and Vols to do battle for him down the stretch. This week, as I've been saying for weeks, is the key one in Scott's recruitment. No matter where things stand in his head right now, he's going to finalize a decision within the week and the two in-home visits will be very important. On Wednesday, it's Vol head coach Butch Jones and running backs coach Robert Gillespie a minimum. Perhaps Tennessee sends the offensive coordinator as well but we don't know that for sure. USC gets the last in-home on Thursday with Deke Adams, Everette Sands, and Steve Spurrier. Tennessee has surely picked up momentum in the past several weeks with Scott, but USC is still definitely in there and to me it's too close to call. Yes, I'm aware that Tennessee's staff has some confidence but so does South Carolina. I spoke with multiple sources on Monday who did not have a good feel for what he's going to do. As I said, regardless of where things are at today it could change down the stretch. Expect Tennessee to hit on early playing time/depth chart, the future of the program, the facilities/tradition, the age of Steve Spurrier and the like during the in-home. Expect South Carolina to try to clear up the depth chart situation in Columbia at running back, hit on comfort level, the direction of the program, distance from home and the like. We will keep everyone posted as to what we hear later in the week, but I think it's too close to call either way." - Rivals
- Is Scott a silent? "I don't believe Scott is a silent commitment and only time will tell if they survive the Spurrier in-home. But, going into the in-home visits this week Tennessee is in good position." -Fortenberry
- Trevon Walters says UT offered 2 weeks ago
- "On Trevon Walters... Some of you have asked about Trevon who tweeted this morning about picking up an offer from Tennessee. That offer actually came about two weeks ago. He said he's firm to Missouri and won't take any more visits. He just wanted to report the offer to update his profile." -Fortenberry
- Trevon Walters: "I was very surprised," Walters told InsideTennessee. "The running backs coach (Robert Gillespie) had wrote me on Facebook and was like 'Let's talk soon,' or whatever and that was it and like we never spoke again after that. Then, it was the national championship game and that's when they offered me. I was shocked. I never told nobody. I just put it out there." "No, he hasn't," Walters said of depth chart being brought to his attention by Gillespie. "When he offered me he was just talking about getting me up there on a visit. But, he said he's going to get back with me on that. But, he hasn't gotten back with me." "Uh, I'm not sure right now," he said. -scout
- Skeeter says Scott is a Vol
- Darrel Williams: "Look for Robert Gillespie in the New Orleans area on Thursday after spending Wednesday night with Scott. Gillespie will see Darrel Williams as the 4-star running back canceled his Florida visit and won't visit the Gators. Also, Gillespie is scheduled to see Courtney Garnett." -Fortenberry
- Derrell Scott: "Tennessee head coach Butch Jones has been busy this week and that continued into Wednesday when Jones hopped around North Carolina before ending up at Derrell Scott's home in Havelock, N.C., for a visit that started between 6 and 7 p.m. Again, going into the visit, the vibe was very much Tennessee. South Carolina gets their chance to reverse Tennessee's momentum, but heading into Wednesday night's visit, Tennessee was seemingly the team to beat. South Carolina coach Steve Spurrier and assistant coaches Deke Adams and Everett Sands are expected to meet with Scott and his family Thursday night." -Fortenberry
- Derrell Scott: "jones and ut running backs coach robert gillespie met wednesday night with top247 all-purpose back derrell scott of havelock (n.c.) high school, whos planning to announce his college decision monday afternoon at approximately 3:15 p.m. Est. Coming off scotts official visit to florida last weekend, tennessee and south carolina still appear to be the teams to beat, and the vols were believed to have the edge going into this weeks in-home visits. Sources indicated that uts visit with scott went well, and the vols still appear to be in pretty good shape heading into his visit thursday with gamecocks coach steve spurrier, defensive line coach deke adams and running backs coach everette sands. Tennessee will have to weather the storm of south carolinas final meeting with scott. Hes likely to have some additional contact with both teams over the weekend while he weighs his options and prepares to make his decision, but the key for the vols will be surviving scotts visit thursday with the gamecocks, who were the longtime favorites to land him before ut made its surge over the past couple of months." - 247
- Derrell Scott: "i spoke with a source close to the recruitment of havelock (n.c.) four-star running back derrell scott. Recruiter deke adams has arrived at the school and will be joined shortly by running backs coach everette sands and head coach steve spurrier. This source believes all things being equal, south carolina is where scott wants to go to school. His only hesitation is the opportunity for playing time. How spurrier and sands handle that aspect is going to determine whether scott picks south carolina or tennessee. The vols coaching staff has convinced him he will have the chance for immediate playing time and now the gamecocks have to do the same. I would expect the coaches to break down the depth chart again for scott. They will remind him that kendric salley has already transferred and that jamari smith will likely be at cornerback the first day of spring practice. That would leave mike davis and brandon wilds, and shon carson, who will all be juniors in 2014,, and redshirt freshman david williams for scott to compete with his first year in the program. They will also remind scott that his running style is very different from the other backs, and that he will have a chance to be a factor in the return game as well. Id be shocked if spurrier doesnt talk a great deal about how he used pharoh cooper and tell scott hed have the same kind of opportunities if he shows hes ready to help the team win games." -USC 247
- Darrel Williams: "Gillespie was in Louisiana on Thursday and was with running back Darrel Williams as the Vols continue to be a factor there. Williams canceled his Florida trip during the midweek so he will now be able to spend more time with the Vols' coaching staff this weekend. LSU still has to be the team to beat, but an impressive visit this weekend could certainly help the Vols. It also helps that Tennessee still has its in-home visit with Butch Jones while LSU's Les Miles has already used his." -VQ
- Jeff Jones: "Tennessee has been in contact with him since the fall but he has never really been interested. He is scheduled to visit Florida this weekend and I'm not sure about any other visits. Word is he wants to be 'the man' and he didn't few like he could do that at Tennessee with Hurd coming in." -Fortenberry
- Jeff Jones: "not sure what's already been reported here but a source close to the in-state minnesota commit told me that jones could take an official to knoxville before nsd and that their is legit interest in the vols. We'll see what happens. Jones had a great senior season winning mr. Football before capping it off with a great week at the under armour game." - 247
- Jeff Jones: 247's R. Callahan on the possible visit: "No, if there's any serious interest here on Tennessee's part, I can assure you it's as a backup plan to Scott and Williams. Those are the Vols' top two targets at the position." "As I said in another thread, it sounds like there hasn't been a ton of contact between UT and Jones recently. If Tennessee was to miss out on Scott and Williams, the Vols maybe could make a late run at Jones. But even if they did, they probably wouldn't have a great chance of flipping him."
- Derrell Scott: "Friday morning update - I'm told things went very well on the in home visit. Scott had questions about returning offensive linemen, opportunity for early playing time and about how much longer Spurrier planned to continue coaching. I'm told Spurrier did a nice job of addressing each issue and Scott seemed satisfied with the answers. The visit was described by one source as going "as well as it could have." Scott will now take the weekend to make his final decision and will announce on Monday. If we hear more to pass on we will." - SC247
- Derrell Scott: "I was told this morning that the feel on the South Carolina side was that the in-home visit with Adams/Sands/Spurrier and Scott's family went very well last night. A variety of topics were covered and Scott and his parents seemed to come away feeling very good about those things as far as USC is concerned. We've mentioned before that the two biggest concerns Scott has had, or the two biggest things that Tennessee has used against South Carolina has been Steve Spurrier's age and the issue of playing time. I have reason to believe that Scott feels better about both of those topics after last night's meeting. It's been outlined to Scott during his process and reiterated as well during the meeting that Spurrier has no plans to retire and also that he has a chance to play as a true freshman if he puts in the work. I was also told that Scott's best friend, Gamecock sophomore Pharoh Cooper, plans on reaching out to him today. On the Tennessee side, the Vols also felt it went well but I heard came away from that meeting unsure of Scott's plans. Also reading some tea leaves: RB coach Robert Gillespie met with LSU RB commit Darrell Williams on Thursday and he's scheduled to take an official visit to Knoxville this weekend. Scott is aware of that situation and the fact that Williams is being brought in for a visit before he announces. I will say that neither side seems to have a firm grip on what Scott is absolutely going to do on Monday. I will say USC seems more confident now and I do think based on what I'm hearing that South Carolina's chances went up after last night, as a good job was done answering Scott's questions." - SC247
- Derrell Scott: "I'm not sure. Scott won't talk. The Tennessee leading chatter had always come from his coaches and some close to him and that was feeling by pretty much everyone heading into these visits. I did talk to someone this morning and they said the South Carolina visit went well, as did the Tennessee visit, but Scott hadn't let either know of a decision. With Scott not talking, no one is sure what he's thinking heading into his decision and just how much the visits really meant to him. I do know that the depth at running back was an issue as well as how long Spurrier intended to coach. But, he's very comfortable at South Carolina, having visited there numerous times, it's closer to home and his best friend is there. With Tennessee, he has a really good relationship with Gillespie and he walks on campus and will battle for carries. Again, I don't know what he's thinking now, and honestly, until he talks, I'm not sure anyone does." -Fortenberry
- Jeff Jones: "Just an update on this, I talked to someone tonight they said there has been some renewed contact between Jones and some people close to him the last several days. Jones is looking into Tennessee this weekend and we will see if anything comes of it." - Fortenberry
- Derrell Scott: "I was told that as of last night that Scott is torn between South Carolina and Tennessee and has struggled to make a final decision. Florida is completely out. Both South Carolina and Tennessee have been confident. Speaking with two other sources close to Scott, they believe that he's currently leaning towards Tennessee, though, and said that Scott believes he could realistically start for the Vols next year. That remains a major factor in all of this. One thing worth pointing out is that Scott is one of the most private kids you'll come across and he plays things very close to the vest. Still, at this point, I (Wes) would lean towards him picking Tennessee, though I'll say if he's truly torn then the longer it takes for him to decide, then the more I could see the comfort level with South Carolina being a factor." -Tony Morrell, 247
- Derrell Scott: "I still think Tennessee is the team to beat heading into tomorrow. Everything has still been pretty quiet around Scott so it's hard to get a read for sure, but from everything I gather I still think Tennessee has the momentum heading into tomorrow. Like you said, things change a lot in recruiting and I don't know what he's going to do. There's certainly no story written for this guy as he's been as hard to get as anyone. We will see tomorrow." -Fortenberry
- Derrell Scott: "Sunday night update (From Wes) - I spoke with several sources with knowledge of Scott's recruitment Sunday and all is quiet on the Havelock front. Both South Carolina and Tennessee are in the dark right now in regards to Scott's final decision to the best of my knowledge, though those who "thought" on Saturday that it would be Tennessee felt the same way on Sunday. I do know that South Carolina was still receiving positive feedback as of this weekend too. While it wouldn't shock me if it went either way, I have switched my Crystal Ball pick to Tennessee and Tony has done the same. Scott is a very private kid, but there's just simply too much smoke on the Tennessee side for me not to go that direction. Just so we get all of your bad news out of the way at once, I will also be attending the announcement tomorrow to cover it on a 247Sports level for both this site and the Tennessee one. We'll, of course, continue to gather information leading up to his announcement at 3:15." - Tony Morell.
- Derrell Scott: "Just so we get all of your bad news out of the way at once, I will also be attending the announcement tomorrow to cover it on a 247Sports level for both this site and the Tennessee one." - 247
- Derrell Scott: "Four-star running back Derrell Scott will be announcing his decision Monday at 3:15 EST and Rivals.com will have a live stream and we will have it linked on the message board. Since his in-home visits with Tennessee and South Carolina on Wednesday and Thursday, respectively, everything around Scott has been pretty quiet. But, we still continue to believe that the momentum has stayed in Tennessee's favor throughout the weekend heading into his announcement on Monday.No one is quite sure what Scott is planning on doing because he has played everything very close to the vest, but the vibe continues to b e the Vols are the team to beat heading into the day of the announcement. " -Fortenberry
Longsnapper Recruiting:
- "I spoke tonight with senior long snapper Wesley Horky of Ravenwood High School in Brentwood, Tenn., who said he's scheduled to take an official visit to Tennessee this weekend. Horky is ranked the nation's No. 1 long snapper in the 247Sports Composite. He received a visit Monday from Vols special teams coordinator Mark Elder, who has stayed in contact with Horky over the past several months since he participated in UT's specialist camp back in June. He said he's being recruited by the Vols as a possible preferred walk-on who would be placed on scholarship after his freshman season if he's able to become Tennessee's starting long snapper this year. The 6-foot-2, 210-pound Horky said he also has drawn interest from Virginia Tech, Wake Forest and Oklahoma, and he just picked up his first scholarship offer today from Murray State. But he said Tennessee, Virginia Tech, Wake Forest and Oklahoma are currently his top four. He's also scheduled to take an official visit to Virginia Tech next weekend.
- We'll have a full story on Horky tomorrow." -247 Sports
- "you can add Ravenwood long-snapper Wesley Horky to the official visit list. Elder visited with Horky on Monday and the Vols have offered what seems to be a gray-shirt opportunity as of now. Horky visited for several games this fall and is very interested in Tennessee heading into the weekend. Horky also has a Virginia Tech official visit the next weekend and is also considering Oklahoma. But, it's safe to see Tennessee is seemingly the team to beat right now." -Fortenberry
- Horky: "I'm definitely really excited about it. My sister goes to school there and I've always wanted to play at Tennessee. But, I'm still trying to be open-minded about my opportunities, but I'm really excited about it," Horky said. "I've been up there a lot. I helped move in my sister but I've been to a lot of games since I moved to Tennessee in the first grade," "I went to the Georgia and Auburn games this year." "Going to the state school that I live in and getting to play in front of 100,000 people and all of my good buddies are going there is something I think about," Horky said. "Aaron Medley and I know each other well and I would play with him and I feel like we could do great things up there." "I'm taking my official visit to Tennessee this weekend and then I'm taking my official visit to Virginia Tech the following weekend," Horky explained. "Another top school of mine is Oklahoma and it's the same deal with them. I would be put on at midyear." -VQ
- Horky: "Just talked to Horky and Dews... Just a couple of quick notes as guys start to make their way out of town. Horky said right now he intends to be a Vol, but just has to go home and talk to his parents about everything and a final decision should be in by midweek. He said everything was great and he wants to be in Knoxville as coach Jones turns everything around." -Fortenberry
- Horky: "As of right now my intentions are to go to Tennessee," Horky said. "That's what I want to do but I have to talk to my parents and then make the decision this week." "It was awesome. It was a lot of fun," Horky said. "It was very impressive. All of the academic support and everything from the athletics to academics to how personable the team was and the coaches are, it was awesome. It was a great experience." "I haven't really sat down and talked to any of the coaches besides coach Elder," Horky said. "I've met coach Azzanni and coach Jones because they came by the school back in December. But, I just felt at home here this weekend. All the coaches were awesome." "Yesterday when we were trying on jerseys and stuff and we went out on the field and I just thought about playing in that stadium in front of 100,000 people and it being my home state and I would go there with some of my closest friends and all the players here are awesome," Horky said. "I just want to be apart of it and it's a very special program and I know coach Jones is going to turn this around and I want to be apart of it." -VQ
LB Recruiting:
- Vols offer TN LB Cody Underwood a preferred walk on spot
DLine Recruiting:
- Michael Sawyers: Is UT still recruiting Sawyers? "I think after some early mutual interest things have cooled down." -Fortenberry
- Courtney Garnett: "He just told me Oklahoma leads. Still visiting Tennessee this weekend. Vols clearly have ground to make up." -Hubbs
- Courtney Garnett: "It was great, it was everything I expected, the school was great, all the players, the atmosphere was wonderful and I loved it," he said. "I want compare the other two schools to Oklahoma - try and see what it feels like to be in another atmosphere and compare it to Oklahoma." During his visit to Tennessee he will also be accompanied by his mother but Butch Jones and the Volunteer staff will have work to do to match the impression made by the Sooner staff. "She just loved the coaches, how the coaches were very - they were always talking to her and giving her a warm welcome. And she loves how coach Stoops was always around and not isolated like a lot of the head coaches are. She just loved the whole thing, the academic side of it is obviously important," he said. "That's going to play a big-time role in it because you can have someone you know nearby. It's nice to have a high school teammate," he admitted. "That's going to play a big-time role in it. I think going to school with somebody from someone back home you don't have to make a new best friend." -Oklahoma Rivals
- Courtney Garnett: "Garnett will host Vol assistant coach Robert Gillespie on Thursday evening before traveling to Knoxville this weekend. Garnett's last visit will be to Oregon the last weekend of the month. And right now everyone is chasing Oklahoma for the former Texas commitments services. Garnett has declared the Sooners his leader after visiting there last weekend." Things he's looking for on the visit: "For me it's the relationships in the program," Garnett said. "How is everyone around each other? Academics and atmosphere are important too. But the relationships that people have with each other is very important." -VQ
- Weekend of the 25th: "This weekend, Evans will be in Knoxville hanging out with fellow lineman and Vol commitment Charles Mosley. Evans and Mosley were teammates in the Offense-Defense Bowl in Orlando at the start of January." -VQ
- Michael Sawyer: "Tuesday night Tommy Thigpen was scheduled to be with Michael Sawyers as the Vols try and gauge what, if any, interest Sawyers has in Tennessee." - VQ
- Craig Evans: "This weekend will be Evans' final visit anywhere and before the flight down to Knoxville, Evans will host defensive line coach Steve Stripling and defensive coordinator John Jancek in his home Wednesday night." -VQ
- Craig Evans: Tennessee has always been impressive to me. I mean, theyve got the No. 2-ranked (recruiting) class in the nation, so that says a lot, said Evans, whos ranked the nations No. 220 overall player and No. 20 defensive tackle in the 247Sports Composite, which equally weighs prospect rankings and ratings from major recruiting media outlets. Obviously, coach Butch (Jones) has got a good plan for his program. And that (Virginia) Tech game is going to be something crazy, and Id get a chance to be a part of that, Evans added, referring to the Vols scheduled game against Virginia Tech on Sept. 10, 2016, at Bristol Motor Speedway in Bristol, Tenn. Theres a lot of that coming into play, and I just want to get down there and see what type of school it is. When I go to Tennessee, if I just get this feeling and vibe like, Yeah, man, this is a place I could see myself coming to, then Im going to have to do what Ive got to do. But if not, then Im going to stay here (at Wisconsin). It all just depends on if I get that vibe, if I get that sense if I just get this sense that says, This is where I need to be. -247
- Courtney Garnett: I might make a decision next week, most likely, Me and my parents will probably talk it over and come up with a decision. I heard Tennessees got a nice stadium, so I want to see the stadium, he said. I know theyve got a bunch of great people around there. (I want to see) the academics side and just kind of compare it to Oklahoma. I mean, both schools are great. But Ill just be looking to compare Oklahoma to Tennessee, basically. Ive just got to see how things go. Garnett said he received a visit from Vols defensive line coach Steve Stripling on Jan. 16, the first day of the final contact period leading up to signing day. Garnett said Tennessee running backs coach Robert Gillespie is planning to visit him Thursday. - 247 Sports
- Courtney Garnett: "We will see if Garnett visits this weekend. Some talk this afternoon that he might shut it down and be Oklahoma bound. They are the overwhelming leader." -Hubbs
- Craig Evans: "John Jancek was scheduled to be in Wisconsin on Wednesday afternoon to see Craig Evans. After initially scheduling a Tennessee visit, we'll be watching closely to see if Evans visits Tennessee this weekend. Evans wouldn't confirm the visit was still on late Wednesday night." -Fortenberry
- Craig Evans: "He was all about talking about his visit on Monday, but yesterday night after I believe Jancek was up there his tune changed. I think there are some grade issues that have some people backing off right now and maybe that's why the visit is in jeopordy. We will try and see tonight." -Fortenberry
- Craig Evans: "yes, been hearing that for a couple of days. I think that after Tennessee visited with him yesterday and reviewed the academics even more that Tennessee is backing off. It's why we don't think he's going to visit." -Hubbs
- Courtney Garnett: "And as we mentioned earlier today, it sounds like three-star DT Courtney Garnett of New Orleans indeed will not be taking his previously scheduled visit to Tennessee this weekend, although we haven't been able to confirm that with Garnett to this point." -247
- Michael Sawyers: "For whatever reason, Tennessee and Michael Sawyers just didn't click greatly and that's why the Midstate DL will visit Ole Miss and Notre Dame down the stretch and has eliminated the Vols." - VQ
- Craig Evans: "Academics seemed to be a real factor in why Craig Evans won't be in Knoxville this weekend for an official visit and why Evans seems destined to sign with Wisconsin at this point." - VQ
- "I think academics are at least part of the reason Evans and Garnett aren't expected to visit." - 247 (Callahan)
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