University of Tennessee Athletics
Seven Questions with the '07 Newcomers ??? Chris Donald
August 11, 2007 | Football
Height: 6-2
Weight: 225
Hometown: Huntingdon
High School: Huntingdon
You were a high-profile recruit. How do you handle the expectations?
???I just try and take it one day at a time. I???m still getting used to the system. It is much different than I am used to. I have to keep working hard and learning every day before I can worry about any of that stuff.???
Why did you decide to stay in-state for college?
???From day one, I have always loved Tennessee, even when I was a kid. I came here to visit and I loved the atmosphere. It had a family feel to it.???
Did you enjoy playing in the U.S. Army All-American Bowl game last winter?
???I did. I saw it as the first step in getting ready for college football. The competition was great. The speed of the game was faster than I was used to, and it gave me a chance to work on things and improve.???
What is the biggest adjustment you have had to make thus far?
???I am learning how to drop into pass coverage. I didn???t have to do that very often in high school. I am learning what to do and how to do it. Coach Chavis has been coaching me up really well.???
Was there something you didn???t know about Tennessee that you enjoy now that you???re here?
???There isn???t really anything now that I???m here for school, but when I came to visit as a junior and got to go through Vol Walk, I got chill bumps. I knew this was a special place and where I wanted to be.???
Have the older linebackers been helpful in getting you acclimated to college football?
???Ryan Karl and Jerod Mayo have helped me a lot. Ever since I got here two months ago, they have been like coaches, helping with what I need to work on. They???ve been great to go to and very helpful.???
Do you pay attention to the expectations others have for you?
???No. People can say what they want to say. I???m going to work hard and bust my tail to get on the field.???
By Tony Williams, UT Sports Information
