University of Tennessee Athletics
Fulmer Q & A - Wyoming Game
August 27, 2002 | Football
Game 1
Fulmer Q&A
Tennessee vs. Wyoming
Aug. 31
The Coliseum, Nashville, Tenn.
ESPN2 - 5:30 p.m. (EDT)
1. In the face of national media projections of a banner season, how do you manage to keep everybody's feet on the ground?
A - "High expectations are part of the continuing situation at Tennessee, something that has really intensified in the last few years. We count on the juniors and seniors helping keep everybody on an even keel. The veterans and the coaching staff remind the squad that our high rank is based on past attainments, not at all on what this team has done. However, the 2002 Vols have a chance to carve out a legacy of their own."
2. What areas of concern have shown the most progress since fall practice got under way?
A - "We've made significant progress in our defensive front where we had some big holes to fill. I don't know if there's a way to be that good again, but this group has taken to coaching well and executes the fundamentals as they have been asked to do."
3. What kind of test do you expect from the Wyoming Cowboys, Saturday's opponent in Nashville?
A - "It will be a tough game. Wyoming has 10 of 11 starters back on offense including an all-conference quarterback. The Cowboys have an outstanding kicker and a multiple defense that puts pressure on the quarterback to make good decisions."
4. Will the loss of Constantin Ritzmann diminish your hopes for a strong pass rush by the Vols?
A - "The loss of Constantin Ritzmann really hurt us. He was our leading sack man and a man with good speed. I've been pleased with the improved play of the defense, including Karlton Neal, who has replaced Constatntin. Karlton had a good spring and a good fall. I'm anxious to see how he plays Saturday afternoon."
5. Where will you look for last-minute improvements before Saturday's game against Wyoming?
A - "There is room for improvement this week in all phases of play. I hope we are sound enough in the fundamentals that we don't hand Wyoming anything. I want the punting game to be sharp because Dustin Colquitt has the ability to be a difference-maker. By the end of the week I expect our entire squad to be sharper."
