Tennessee football: Assembling the all-time Phil Fulmer team

Tennessee Football All-Time Phil Fulmer Team Fullback

Will Bartholomew (1998-2001)

During Phil Fulmer’s tenure as the head coach of Tennessee football, the fullback position wasn’t heavily utilized in the offensive scheme. However, one notable player who stood out at fullback during that time is Will Bartholomew.

Bartholomew played for the Vols from 1998 to 2001 and was known for his blocking skills and toughness. He was a reliable lead blocker in Tennessee’s rushing attack and contributed to the team’s success, including their 1998 national championship season.

Bartholomew’s physicality and dedication to his role made him the standout fullback under Phil Fulmer. One of the most interesting things about what Bartholomew did do for the Volunteers is that he was someone who caught passes far more often than he carried the ball on the ground.

In 2000, the fullback carried the ball just twice while catching 14 passes for 108 yards and a touchdown. The following season, he caught 10 passes for 85 yards and ran the ball just 7 times for 17 yards.

It’s a testament to the kind of coach that Phil Fulmer was when he was leading Tennessee football that he was able to find a way to turn a lead blocker into someone who showed some offensive prowess when the Vols need it most.