Rocky Top Nation

Here are my keys to victory for the Vols:

1) Stop the Run - If Tennessee is going to have any chance of beating Alabama they must stop Mark Ingram and the rest of the Alabama running backs.  Players such as Middle Line Backer Savion Frazier must have a great game if they want to accomplish this. Defensive lineman such as Ben Martin and Chris Walker must come out and cause trouble for Alabama's offensive line. If Tennessee can stop the run and make Alabama a one-dimensional team Alabama could be in for trouble on offense. Alabama quarterback Greg Mcelroy has struggled as of late even when Mark Ingram was having tremendous days.

2) Control time of possesion - With a such a great defense lead by Monte Kiffin it's a shame that the offense has had trouble in the past of keeping them off the field. In order for Tennessee's defense to be affective Montario Hardesty and crew must gain first downs. Both Hardesty and Bryce Brown have to be on there A-game against Alabama. If Tennessee can run the ball and keep the defense on the sidelines Alabama is in for a pleasent suprise.

3) Get off to good start early - There is no question that the Vols play better when they get off to a good start. Just ask Georgia. If Crompton can get going early and throw a couple of good 10 yard passes everything will start to come together for this offense. Tennessee needs to come out early and gain some confidence. Crompton's play seems to be 5 times better when Tennessee has a good start and hes gaining confidence.

4) Play great on special teams - One of the bad parts of this year for Tennessee has been special teams. Kickoff coverage has been absolutley horrible and Daniel Lincoln hasn't been the best either. It's extremely important for Tennessee to have good kickoff coverage or Javier Arenas and Julio Jones will be running into the endzone. It's also equally important that Daniel Lincoln connects on field goals or he could end up costing Tennessee the game. Special teams must improve in order for Tennessee to have a chance against Alabama.

5) Create turnovers - Last but not least, Tennessee needs to get into Greg Mcelroy's head and pick some of his passes off. By creating turnovers Alabama will start tear apart and the crowd will settle down. Watch out for Eric Berry as we all know he is very close to breaking the interceptions return yards record and would be more then glad to do it against Alabama. Also heisman canidate Mark Ingram might not like Eric Berry after the game either.