by Rex Robinson
Tennessee’s Upgrade is Dooley Noted
As a Georgia guy, I was surprised by the hiring of Derek Dooley at the University of Tennessee. Not because I don’t think he is worthy, but because he is unlike the other candidates mentioned. Troy Calhoun of Air Force, Houston’s Kevin Sumlin and David Cutcliffe who was a Tennessee guy for so long are all so different.
I know that some of the Tennessee faithful looked at the Dooley hire as settling for the sake of expediency, with signing day looming. I think Derek dispelled much of that concern in his introductory press conference. His combination of down home eloquence and understanding of the value of tradition had the press corp applauding at one point. Even Volunteers recognize class when they see it, it’s just been a while.
He is the anti-Kiffin…it was love at first bite.
Sound bite that is. A couple of reporters attempted to get Dooley to comment on Lane Kiffin, even if in a subtle way, and Derek would not stoop to that level. It was as if uttering the K-word would leave a bad taste in one’s mouth.
I hope Tennessee wins it’s share of games each year with losses to Georgia and Florida.
But I will not be cheering for the Big Urange!
That sounds perfect to me.
What say you?
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about 7 months ago
Wow, I was really shocked at this pick but after hearing Derek, he us the real deal. Daddy Vince is rightfully proud. I hope they win them all EXCEPT one a year.
about 7 months ago
I’ve been involved with the UGA and Dooley beginning when I lived in Philadelphia and recruited number 56. Joe Happe. for what turned out to be the National Championship season.
And I’ve met Derek and found him to be a very intense, driven and courteous person.
To the extent that I can be for Tennessee because of Vince, Barbara and Derek, I will be. That’s as far as it goes.
He’s bitten off a big piece at UT. The fans endured the antics of Kiffin and Derek will be quite a contrast I am sure.
To reapeat, so long as Derek’s charges do not impact the DAWGS, I’m for him succeeding. How that works out, Lord only knows.
about 7 months ago
bulldawg88, Derek Dooley played football at Clarke Central in the mid 80’s and graduated in 1986. Just thought I’d pass that along.
about 7 months ago
Rex – Why would you want UT to lose to Florida? As much as I hate Tennessee, my hatred for Florida, and I think I speak for most Dawg fans, runs much deeper. In fact, I don’t pull for Florida…….ever!!! My SEC allegiance goes out the window when the gaytors are playing out of conference. Love the blog, keep up the good work!!!
about 7 months ago
Does this mean Coach (Vince) Dooley has to learn “Rocky Top”? He & Barbara have to be proud. I recall refereeing a Clark Central football game back in the early 70’s in which Derrick played. He was an intense yet very polite young man…executed his responsiblities wel. I am sure he’ll do the same at UT. Now that he has broken the ranks as anSEC head coach…??? Naw…that could never happen…Could it??
about 7 months ago
It is very surreal to have John Kasay and now Derek Dooley, who I knew as kids become so prominent in their respective fields.
about 7 months ago
I watched the hiring press conference. If Derek coaches as well as he talks the SEC is in big trouble. I just wonder if UT politics will eat him alive over the next year or two.
about 7 months ago
Well half the Vols fb team hails from the Great State of Georgia…..the Head Coach might as well too.
Maybe a new name is in order The Georgia-Tennessee Vols!
about 7 months ago
I look forward to going back to not thinking about Tennessee, except when UGA plays them. I don’t wish Dooley any ill will nor do I hope he will be a major success, that feels good to me.
about 7 months ago
That’s fair. I have known Derek since he was about 10 years old. Because of my relationship with the Dooley’s, I don’t want him to be an utter failure.
about 7 months ago
Good for you MY SON