Vols-NIU Postgame

Nick Stephens impressed me in his first start.  As I said during our pregame coverage-- Stephens took an unusual path to get here, but if David Cutcliffe respected this kid-- he's gotta be good.  Ya know, I really think he is.

He had poise in the pocket.  He read his receivers.  He threw deep.  Still, too many dumb penalties on offense and dropped balls.   Score at half was 3-3.  That, quite simply, is a joke.  Two big passes in second half ignite the crowd and result in points.

The defense was agressive and despite getting an unexpected look from NIU (rolling QB), they did a nice job overall.  John Chavis is a great coach and deserves more attention.

The challenge next week will be tough. Georgia in Athens.  Dawgs will be heavy favorites, but I was there in 2004 and 2006 for the UT upset wins.  Gonna be tough-- but it COULD happen again.

No pictures to post.  No time.  Ended interviews at 10:50pm.  Our ABC game moved faster than expected.  Mad dash to the truck to edit. Turned a good story in 15 minutes.  Still love the pressure.  It's madness.