Most of them were part of Tennessee's 8-4 record in 2000, its 11-2 mark in
2001 and its 8-5 record in 2002. Throw in this season's 10-2 mark, and their
cumulative record is an unspectacular 37-13. Still, head coach Phillip
Fulmer likes this class.
''I'm proud of the senior leaders on this team,'' he said. ''It's a tough
time when you start telling them goodbye. It's an incredible group of kids
with a very fine record. There are not many places around the country where
kids can say they've beaten Michigan, Notre Dame and Miami and done a lot of
the things they've accomplished.
''I'm proud of them, and I'm hopeful we'll be able to send 'em out in
style.''
Tennessee's most visible senior, of course, is quarterback Casey Clausen,
who has started nearly every game the past four seasons. He's coming off a
342-yard passing performance against Mississippi State last weekend.
''Really, this whole season he's been outstanding,'' Fulmer said. ''He's
grown to be the real leader and emotional leader of this team, particularly
the offense. I really hope he can finish out the way he has the last several
weeks -- playing very, very well for us.''
Other seniors due to make their final home starts this Saturday are: center
Scott Wells, guard Anthony Herrera, tackle Sean Young (if injury permits),
receiver Mark Jones, fullback Troy Fleming, defensive end Constantin Ritzmann, linebacker Robert Peace, cornerback Jabari Greer and safeties
Gibril Wilson and Rashad Baker.
Key reserves slated to make their final home appearance are: guard Chavis Smith, quarterback C.J. Leak and defensive tackle Terriea Smalls.