University of Tennessee Athletics
Past Challenge Provides Focus For Next Test
October 20, 2014 | Football
By Brian Rice
UTSports.com
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. -- Little time had passed following Tennessee's 34-3 loss to Ole Miss on Saturday night before the challenge that lies ahead this week crossed the mind of the UT staff.
In past years, a loss of that type could have had a lasting impact on the psyche of the team. But Butch Jones still sees his team progressing, both mentally and physically.
"We are going through a process of building a football program right now and you can't get caught in the emotions of the ups and downs, the natural adversities that a football season brings about and the building of a football program," Jones said in his weekly press conference at Neyland Stadium. "We are all disappointed, because you play the game to win and it is a bottom line business. You are measured on wins and losses, I understand that. But again you have to go back and look where you are, and I am as optimistic and encouraged as I have ever been and I see progress every day."
The progress is not limited to on the field, where Jones has seen performances like Derek Barnett's career-best 10 tackles against Ole Miss. The freshman had four tackles for a loss, including two sacks, the second and third of his Tennessee career. He also sees it in the way his players respond after every game, win or loss.
"Completely different culture, mindset, the inordinate amount of texts I receive again, you know from individuals," Jones said. "They take pride in their performance. They internalize every play that they make. The big thing for a young football team is not getting caught up in the outside distractions, those are all external factors. Just focus on being a better football player each and everyday. You are responsible for what you create everyday."
That is not to say there was not disappointment in the performance. The hurt that Jones has referenced this season was present, it also helped fuel the team's recovery as they prepared for Alabama.
"What you would expect, very disappointed, disappointed in a number of things," Jones said of the reaction. "But also ready to get back to work. I met with our players staff and we spoke about where we are going, the journey we are on, it is a long football season, keeping these in perspective,
It is one area where the mix of youth combined with strong senior leadership has actually helped in moving on to the next challenge.
"That is what I expected, said Jones. "We are so youthful, they don't know any better. They have no past experiences. They don't know what they don't know. They just show up to work everyday."
Jones singled out A.J. Johnson and Curt Maggitt for the leadership they bring to the Tennessee defense and helping the young players understand moving forward. He is also relying on them making the finish to 2014 different from the past.
"They have seen this materialize before, what makes you different?," Jones said. "What makes you a different leader? What are you doing different to lead? How have you learned from your past experiences? Because that is what great leaders do. Just that overall stability and leadership and hunger I see everyday."
