Fulmer Q&A - University of Tennessee Athletics

Game 12

Fulmer Q&A
Tennessee vs. LSU
Dec. 8
SEC Championship Game
Georgia Dome, Atlanta, Ga.
CBS (8 p.m./Eastern)

1. In what ways are Tennessee and LSU different from the two teams that played at Neyland Stadium earlier in the season?
A - "I think both teams have improved since then. From our standpoint Casey Clausen has come a long way at quarterback. Donte Stallworth is back in the mix at wide receiver. We should be a much healthier footballl team. LSU is a team that has continued to pile up the points and yards on offense, and they've had the emergence of Michael Clayton at wide receiver. Even though he's a freshman, Clayton is a phenom. Defensively, LSU has added some packages and is doing more things than back in September."

2. Will the fact LSU and Tennessee played earlier in the season affect the motivation for either team in Saturday's rematch in Atlanta?
A - "I don't think so. Both teams know they're playing for the SEC championship. The motivation will be high on both sides. It comes down to who will have success in making the winning plays."

3. How big a factor in motivation will be the Vols' knowledge that a victory will likely put them in the Rose Bowl for the national championship?
A - "First and foremost, we wanted to be in position to win the SEC championship. That's our total focus. That's what we're going to be talking about and what we will be practicing for."

4. Sum up the capabilities of the LSU Tigers offense the Vols will face Saturday night in Atlanta.
A - "They are an incredible offensive football team. They can run it with LaBrandonToefield. In the passing game, Rohan Davey isn't just a dropback guy. He can move around and create problems. Josh Reed is the leading receiver in the SEC. Michael Clayton helps as a pass-receiving threat. The tight end is very good. The line is solid . LSU puts tremendous pressure on a defensive football team."

5. Was getting everybody's mind on the SEC championship game difficult after the exciting victory over Florida last week?
A - "No. After the Florida game our kids were talking about the right things. The important thing wasn't just to win at Florida but how we used the victory. We know we have to take advantage of this opportunity to play for the SEC championship. Our focus is strictly on the LSU team and our chance to win an SEC title."