University of Tennessee Athletics
Poole Keeps Focus on Game Ahead
October 07, 2011 | Football
Tauren Poole has a simple philosophy when it comes to his sport.
"I just want to win football games," Poole said. "You have to run the football to win football games and that's my part."
Poole was one of the SEC's best tailbacks last season. He rushed for 1,034 yards in 2010, becoming just the 15th Tennessee tailback to record a 1,000-yard season. He also had six 100-yard games, tying for the SEC lead.
"I look at the game and ask myself what I can do better," Poole said. "I try to take that approach to the next game: being better, being faster and being stronger. I just want to continue to get better as an overall running back."
"The next game" has always been a focus for Poole. When one team holds him down, Poole always seems to come roaring back with a stronger performance. And his best games last year came against a trio of top-10 teams: Oregon (164 yards), LSU (110) and Alabama (122).
Poole also holds the distinction of being the only starting senior on the 2011 Vols' offense, a situation the Toccoa, Ga., native has embraced."Sometimes I do realize I'm the only senior in the huddle," Poole said. "It comes as a surprise. We have talented football guys on the field. It's exciting to think where they'll be in the next few years. Those guys, they love football and they love to play. I look forward to how good those guys can be."
Poole's on-field experience means the soft-spoken tailback has had to take on more of a leadership role.
"I definitely know I have to be a leader out there because I am the only senior," he said. "I'm more of a quiet guy; I don't really like talking that much. Now it's gotten to the point where it's expected of me from the coaching staff and I've come to expect it from myself to pick the guys up when we're down and rally the offense when I can."
Poole's career at Tennessee may be winding down, but he's enjoyed his time as a Vol. Poole already has topped the 1,400-yard rushing mark and has a chance at reaching UT's career top-10 by season's end. Reggie Cobb (1987-89) ranks 10th with 2,360 yards.
"I'm just looking forward to the rest of the season," Poole said. "I don't really care too much about the top 10. I just want to win football games.
"When I'm done, I'm going to miss everything about this place. But it's really hard to think of right now, and I've got to continue to give my all for this program."
