NY Times: Teams Either Start Strong or Start Over

By PETE THAMEL

The first day of school is a prime opportunity to show off. Children put on their new clothes, show off their summer tans and do everything possible to impress.

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TENNESSEE

One year removed from a 5-6 season, the Volunteers looked more like past editions. No. 23 Tennessee crushed No. 9 California, 35-18, on Saturday, and the Vols’ players quickly reminded the world they were back.  How much of a difference did the return of David Cutcliffe as Tennessee’s offensive coordinator make? Last season, quarterback Erik Ainge threw five touchdown passes. He threw four Saturday. Compared with Cal Coach Jeff Tedford, Cutcliffe surely looked like the superior offensive guru. The Golden Bears failed to muster a consistent offense.