re: Why do Tennessee fans think beating Northwestern was such a big deal?

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Did those starters last year prove they had what it takes to compete for championships?

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How did the players not prove that on the field? We had four combined losses for 17 points. Those players return with another year of experience under their belts. A questionable defensive call against Florida on 4th and 14 cost us the game. A solid drive by Alabama when we were up 6 minutes remaining in the fourth lost us that game, and Alabama ended up winning the National Championship. Lack of depth against Oklahoma, another playoff contender, cost us the game in double overtime. Arkansas... no excuses there; we were just flat and deflated. Regardless, I think our players have definitely proven they can compete with the best... if anything, the better question is, Have the coaches proven they have what it takes to compete for championships? That is what we'll have to wait and see, but if they prove it this year, the players and talent is waiting in the stable.