Today On Rocky Top: Franklin Doesn’t Consider Vols-Vandy A Rivalry Yet

Sep 28, 2013; Knoxville, TN, USA; Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Justin Worley (14) hands the ball off to running back Rajion Neal (20) against the South Alabama Jaguars during the second half at Neyland Stadium. Tennessee won 31 to 24. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports

From WBIR

"Vanderbilt has come a long way, but James Franklin doesn’t think his Commodores have done enough to be considered a true rival of Tennessee’s just yet.In fact, Franklin won’t refer to Saturday’s game in that light. Despite the fact Vanderbilt dismantled the Vols 41-18 last year in Nashville, he noted at his Monday press conference that the series has been too lopsided in the Vols’ favor to be declared a rivalry."

From Bleacher Report

"The Tennessee Volunteers and Vanderbilt Commodores are heading in different directions as the season winds down.After their signature win over South Carolina back on Oct. 19, the Vols have lost lopsided contests against top-10 opponents Alabama, Missouri and Auburn. Meanwhile, James Franklin’s ‘Dores have won two consecutive games and seven straight in November dating back to 2011."

From Bleacher Report

"The Tennessee football team’s quarterback carousel has been maddening this season, producing three different starters and just four wins through 10 games.Despite these frustrations, the resolution to the Volunteers worries at the team’s most important position may already be on the roster. The next step is just finding out who it is—incumbent true freshman starter Joshua Dobbs or unused classmate Riley Ferguson."

From The Boston Globe

"The questions come when Tom Brady throws with a little less zip and Peyton Manning plays with heavily taped ankles. Are the future Hall of Famers showing their age, physically breaking down? Or are they struggling through a tough stretch, gutting out another NFL season?Tough to know. Maybe a little of both. Aging athletes have proven to be an unpredictable commodity, especially the two elite quarterbacks who will meet for the 14th time Sunday night at Gillette Stadium.Over the years, Brady, 36, and Manning, 37, have fought through serious injuries, adjusted to ever-changing receiving corps, endured tough losses, and continued to set records. Through 10 games, Manning is on pace for a career year with 34 touchdown passes and 3,572 yards, positioning himself to reclaim the record for TD passes that Brady set with 50 in 2007."