Football Playoffs And Coach Security

Playoff Debate

For anyone who thinks a college football playoff system is the fair and balanced way to end the national championship debate-- please cast your eyes toward Jefferson City. After ending their season with a 10-1 record, the Carson-Newman Eagles were shut-out of the NCAA Division II playoffs.

Big deal, you say? It is. In fact, I've already received one email from an East Tennessee soldier stationed in Iraq wondering-- what's up with the decision to keep this college football power on the sidelines during the postseason. The coaches, fans, and administrators at CN aren't happy either.

The NCAA has a rather convoluted method for selecting it's playoff teams. The debate rages on even without bowl games and BCS formulas. I want major college football to utilize a playoff system. But if we think that will end the debate and hard feelings-- we're all wrong.

Fulmer Follies

The win over Arkansas has taken the heat off Phillip Fulmer, and ended talk of his possible departure. In a twisted way, I suspect there are some UT fans out there actually rooting against the Vols-- to further exacerbate the pressure on Fulmer. I know, it sounds crazy. But I've heard it a lot lately. I love UT football so much, it's time for a change, they write.

The Vols could wind-up 9-3 heading to the SEC title game. In a remarkable turnaround after a disasterous September, UT could finish the season 11-3 by winning a BCS game.

One of Fulmer's favorite phrases is, tough times don't last, tough people do. Fulmer's a pretty tough guy. He's been at this for fifteen seasons now. I suspect sixteen is a good bet.

A Walk In The Woods

Fulmer's family likes to hike. So does Wogan's. Although our paths have never crossed on the trail, nothing beats the beauty of East Tennessee on a glorious November afternoon. The Little Greebrier trail traverses a ridge that borders the Great Smoky Mountain National Park near Wear's Valley. Not the toughest hike we've done. Although we did heed the NPS signs, and stayed off the trails warning of bear activity.