Tampa Latest.. Sunday

It's sunny and 83 degrees outside. And here I sit, inside a stuffy hotel room writing an internet column. Yes, I'm an idiot. I could have (should have) found a poolside table to use as a workstation.

All is well in Tampa. Phillip Fulmer and Joe Paterno held their final Outback Bowl press conference this morning.

Paterno still isn't sure he will coach from the sideline. His injured knee is still troublesome. His mobility is limited. And he doesn't want to be a distraction.

Paterno is a classic. He was asked again about coaching at 80. EIGHTY! Joe said he was sore getting up this morning. I'm sore getting up most mornings, and he's got me by 31 years! Paterno says he tries to exercise.

Even after 41 years of coaching, Paterno knows how to play the PR game. He has (mildly) built-up the Vols during his comments this week. In response, Vol Head Coach Phillip Fulmer said Paterno is making UT sound like the Denver Broncos. Not the case, says Fulmer.

It's New Year's Eve in Tampa. My wife is home in Tennessee, and I haven't seen her since Christmas Day. I miss her. Today's my father's birthday. I miss him too.

Tommorrow, the Vols play football. The players and coaches are ready for the game. So am I.

Happy New Year from Tampa!