re: UT: Above or Below .500 by tTSIO

I don't expect a natty. That would be fantastic, but so many variables go into that, so it's not really how I want to measure success for Jones. I want to see noticeable improvement by next year, because we'll have some more experience with a really great class from this past year. That may not be enough to take us to a division title, but we may have a shot at contention at least.

Really what I will settle for this year is seeing more fight. There were flashes last year like in the UGA and South Carolina games, but Tennessee still suffered from glass jaw syndrome in some games, especially like those against Oregon and Alabama. No shame in losing to those teams, but I'd like to see the team fight for four full quarters. Not that "fight" is necessarily quantifiable, but it'd be nice to compete more consistently. I honestly think with the way Tennessee played against UGA and South Carolina, they should've been more competitive against Mizzou at least. Auburn was a machine and we were too slow for them, so that wasn't really surprising. Vanderbilt was a major disappointment because we had numerous opportunities to put them away but never capitalized.

I think we ought to be serious contenders for the East and the SEC title by 2016/2017 to sow some confidence that we're getting where we need to be. But I think the fact that Butch Jones is so well-liked, in spite of another lackluster season in 2013, is indicative of an important culture shift that signals good things for Tennessee. And not just in terms of recruits -- things are simply more positive all around in the program than they were when Dooley was in charge (and I liked Dooley, but it's clear in retrospect how in over his head he was).

To answer your question I'm not sure that Butch will take us to the promised land. I do feel he will be a massive improvement over what we've experienced since 2008, and I think he has the tools to make UT a force again. Regardless, his recruiting and building depth will leave us in much better shape whether he's "the guy" or not. I hope he is, because his optimism and attitude are just infectious. I love the guy.