Vols Football: All 2000’s Team (Offense)

Sep 8, 2012; Knoxville, TN, USA; Tennessee Volunteers cheerleader entertains fans during the first Vol Walk of the season prior to the game against the Georgia State Panthers at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports

Quarterback

First Team: Erik Ainge (2004-2007)

Second Team: Casey Clausen (2000-2003)

Boy was this a tough one!

I’m sure many will disagree, but I gave the edge to Ainge simply because I think he was a more talented quarterback.

Yes I know, Clausen had more success as the starting quarterback at Tennessee, but don’t discount Ainge.

Ainge is the last quarterback to beat Florida (as a true freshman) and is also the last quarterback to take the Vols to an SEC championship game.

Just imagine if David Cutcliffe had been around for all four years of Ainge’s career.

Or if Brent Schaeffer hadn’t cut into Ainge’s playing time as a freshman.

I also gave brief consideration to Tyler Bray. Mock him if you want, but the kid broke records at Tennessee. He’s the most naturally gifted quarterback that Tennessee’s had since Peyton Manning was on the hill.