UTVols News and Opinions

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Prediction: Tennessee 45 Marshall 12

The Usual Suspects: Erik Ainge, Robert Meachem, Jayson Swain, Bret Smith
Breakout games for: Quintin Hancock, Demetrice Morley, Lucas Taylor, Josh McNeil
Step up game for: Demonte Bolden, J.T. Mapu
Benchwarmer award: Britton Colquitt
Over/Under for turnovers: 4
Over/Under for “Rocky Top” renditions: 21

Focus: Stop the Run…

Coach Chavis’ squad is sick of hearing how they can’t stop the run. That’s not to say that their reputation is completely undeserved; however, it’s critical for this defensive line to have a big game against another option offense to show themselves and the world that they’re getting better. They’re going to have to have someone step up to fill some big shoes with the absence of Justin Harrell. Demonte Bolden, pictured left, and J.T. Mapu will have some trouble and Marshall will be able to move the ball, but this team will bow its neck and not allow any touchdowns this week.


…and Pound the Rock

Similarly, the offensive line is anxious to prove it can run against any opponent. The early success against a vastly overrated California team was very misleading, and everyone has been talking about the -11 rushing yards against Florida. However, we may not face another front seven like last week’s all season. Look for Montario Hardesty and LaMarcus Coker to be the beneficiaries of a breakout game for this young offensive line. Ainge will open up the field early with a long touchdown toss to Meachem or Swain, and the rout will be on from there.

Odds and Ends

• Backup QB Jonathan Crompton will see significant playing time in the second half and throw at least one touchdown
• Quintin Hancock will also see playing time and be the recipient of one touchdown pass
• Demetrice Morley will return punts, and has the speed and elusiveness to run one back
• Punter Britton Colquitt will achieve top score on his Gameboy Madden NFL ’07 as he sits on the bench


Trivia

1) When did UT first play the Herd, and what was the final score?
2) What is the name of the Thundering Herd Mascot?
3) Name at least one Tennessee native who has gone on to play for Marshall.

Email your answers, comments, or questions to brittain.n@gmail.com .