UT's Quarterback Situation

Erik Ainge didn't do himself any favors at Neyland Stadium on Saturday, but it's not time to hit the panic button on the UT quarterback situation.

Ainge was 13 of 26 passing for 120 yards. But he threw two interceptions, and at times, didn't have overall control at the line of scrimmage.

Not to worry. Yet. For three reasons.

First, despite coaxing by the media, UT coaches were reluctant to even remotely consider Ainge at risk to lose his starting job.

Second, Ainge has a longer leash than he did last season. While back-up Jonathan Crompton showed positive signs against the second-team defense, he still has no (as in-- zero, zip) game experience. He's not Rick Clausen. Someday he'll be better. But he's not there yet.

Third, UT Coaches need another quarterback controversy like Paris Hilton needs another TV show.

Offensive Coordinator David Cutcliffe says he's not ready to shake things up, but admits players will be held accountable.

Phillip Fulmer made a shocking and quick move to install a freshman (Casey Clausen) as a starting quarterback in 2000. It could happen again-- but I doubt it.

I didn't sense any panic at Neyland after the scrimmage on Saturday.