2009: A Comeback Year

Well hasn't Lane Kiffin been busy this summer? After a countless number of recruiting violations, Tennessee fans are anxious for this season to finally begin. Let's break down Tennessee's nonconference schedule and see what fans should expect to see.

Western Kentucky (Sept. 5)

What better way to start of a rebuilding season than to face a team in its first official game as a Division I-A member (or FBS or whatever they call it now)? This game should, if nothing else boost the team's confidence level. We may not crush them, but a sound victory would really boost team morale. The next game is what fans are looking forward to...

UCLA (Sept. 12)

After getting beaten by a drastically inferior team last year, if this team isn't fired up to play this game, their mind is not working right. Especially with this game being a week before the Florida game, Tennessee really really needs to win this game to feel like they have any chance to beat Florida the next week. Which probably won't happen anyway.

Ohio (Sept. 26)

Assuming the Tennessee defeat against Florida is great, this game is a great opportunity to gain some self-esteem back. Most of the time, this would be a game Tennessee wins by 30, but this year I believe they might struggle a bit until the fourth quarter. Nonetheless, a win here is all the team needs.

Memphis (Nov. 7)

This "rivalry" is dominated by Tennessee, even though Memphis has gained ground on Tennessee in recent years. While i don't believe this will be a repeat of last year's homecoming debacle, Memphis has the capability to play a very close game with Tennessee, especially because Tennessee has the ability to lose the previous four games on the schedule.