Phil Fulmer is the 'emperor' of SEC coaches today, having served for nearly two decades as Tennessee's head coach. But Fulmer's ascension wasn't a noble, honorable process. In fact it was much like that of a Sith Lord (Darth Pumpkin?) when, as an assistant coach serving under Johnny Majors, he ousted his boss in 1992, wrestling control of the Big Orange away for his own benefit.
For a time, Rocky Top was a happy, content universe. Darth Pumpkin brought peace and prosperity to Vol Nation. The heights of joy were achieved from 1996 to 1998, a marvelous 3-year stretch which saw the Vols win two SEC championships and a national title. Fulmer was seen as a benevolent leader, whose mighty Imperial Volunteer army ran roughshod over the outlying states in the Southeastern conference.
But oh, how things change.
Today Tennessee is teetering on the brink of its second losing season in three years. The former Cromptonites (who championed Jonathan Crompton in his quest to remove the Pumpkin's apprentice, Erik Ainge, from his position of power) now realize that their cause is lost. Quarterback duels, dark power plays and unusual disturbances in the Force plague the once great Nation of Volunteers.
One of those ripples -- causing a feeling of great alarm -- came from Darth Pumpkin's overthrown master, who despite watching in the shadows from afar, has not been silent on matters pertaining to his former pupil.
Majors at first declined to address UT's 1-3 start and the pressure on Fulmer during a Tuesday evening speaking engagement with the Huntsville (Ala.) Quarterback Club.
"What's happening there now I'm not going to get into," Majors told the Chattanooga Times Free Press.
Then, Majors couldn't resist.
"Frankly," Majors said, "I think (defensive coordinator) John Chavis has saved (Fulmer's) job for 10 years."
Sports
Darth Chavis has many mystical, defensive powers. Perhaps he could conjure up a quarterback who can complete more than 30% of his passes. May the Force be with you, Phil Fulmer.
