Vols' secondary will test the Tigers

Tennessee's tough defensive backs will provide a challenge for Clemson's tall, speedy receivers, according to the Anderson Independent-Mail. (More here.) Tennessee's pass defense ranks second in the SEC and 15th nationally.

PRACTICE PROBLEMS: Monday was not a good day for the Tigers on the practice field in Atlanta. (More here and here.)

WHAT A DIFFERENCE A YEAR MAKES: Clemson's players say preparations for this year's bowl game are much more focused than they were for last year's Tangerine Bowl fiasco.

HANG IT UP: Columnist Ron Morris of The State examines how a player-imposed cellphone ban helped the Tigers stay focused when difficulties arose during the season.

COACHES UNDER THE MICROSCOPE: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution has a nice story on the struggles faced this season by Clemson coach Tommy Bowden and Tennessee coach Phillip Fulmer.

CURRIE AIMS TO DODGE VOLS AGAIN: All-star receiver Airese Currie could have signed with Tennessee, but decided to go to Clemson. Thank goodness.

ALABAMA WAS THE TURNING POINT: A five-overtime, 51-43 victory over the Crimson Tide in Tuscaloosa was when Tennessee's defense really grew up.

CONSIDERING CLAUSEN: The Knoxville News-Sentinel has a long piece on Tennessee senior quarterback Casey Clausen, who has compiled an excellent record without winning a championship.

VOLS' WORKOUTS: Stories are here and here.