University of Tennessee Athletics
October 21, 2002 | Football
Oct. 21, 2002
Game 7
Fulmer Q&A
Tennessee vs. Alabama
Oct. 26
Neyland Stadium, Knoxville, Tenn.
ESPN-7:45 p.m. (EDT)
1. How did you use the week off to better prepare the team for Saturday's game with Alabama at Neyland Stadium?
A - "We benefited in two ways. We had a chance to get some players healthy who were banged up and needed extra time to heal. We also got a head start at looking at a good Alabama team with its multiple looks on both offense and defense. The open date was a chance to get a jump-start on the Alabama game."
2. How does the situation shape up for the game at quarterback, where the injured Casey Clausen hopes to return and James Banks and C.J. Leak are ready to go?
A - "We are very hopeful Casey Clausen will be able to play and that we can give him some work during the week in order for him to play efficiently. It's still a gray area about whether he can play or not. We will wait and see what the doctors and trainers tell us. James Banks is working as the back-up, and C.J. Leak is competing for that responsibility."
3. What will the Vols need to have happen to get back into contention for the Eastern Division crown in the Southeastern Conference?
A - "First things first. We've got to look after ourselves and what lies ahead of us. We have six games left, and we want six victories. If other teams stump their toe enough, meaning especially Georgia, we could be back in the picture. You never know what to expect in this crazy year for the SEC."
4. Name some of the pleasant surprises among the younger Vols who are playing important roles in the 2002 season.
A - "Lots of young Vols are contributing. It's part of stepping up when somebody gets hurt. People like Cody Douglas and Rob Smith in the line, Jonathan Wade and Chris Hannon at receiver, the young running backs. You see Gerald Riggs out there, and you know you're looking at somebody who is going to be special."
5. Summarize Alabama's capabilities as the Vols prepare to renew the time-honored series with the Crimson Tide Saturday in Knoxville.
A - "It's always an exciting time when Tennessee plays Alabama, one of college football's great, colorful, traditional rivalries. Alabama is outstanding on both sides of the football and sound in the kicking game. It will take our best effort to win Saturday's game."
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