Sports
Thursday, September 2, 2010
The last time Sam Edgmon and Joseph Dunavant played on the same football field was 2006 in the third round of the state playoffs in a 21-14 loss at David Lipscomb.
The two former Bobcat teammates — No. 1 and No. 8 — led Coach David O’Connor’s first year team to an 11-2 record.
This Saturday, the two will be reunited on the football field at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville.
There is, however, one small difference. Dunavant will be playing for the UT Martin Skyhawks and Edgmon will be playing for the UT Vols. Both are juniors at their respective schools.
Their numbers have also changed. Dunavant will be No. 36 and Edgmon is No. 41.
“Oh yes, we are excited about going to Knoxville and playing before 100,000 fans,” Dunavant said. “We know it’s going to be tough, but we also are going up there to win. Sam and I remain best friends, but for that time frame we are in separate corners.”
The Skyhawks team is no stranger to high profile programs, having played Auburn University (Ala.) and South Florida in the past.
“We respect the University of Tennessee; however, we have a good shot,” Dunavant said. “We just can’t make any mistakes.”
Dunavant, who played quarterback at Giles County High School, will line up on defense and start in the nickel package and special teams.
The Skyhawks were 4-4 in conference and 5-6 overall last year.
Edgmon will be doing the Vol Walk this year and for the third straight year there will be a new leader. Edgmon has been on the team under Phil Fulmer, Lane Kiffin and, now, Derek Dooley.
The former Bobcat MVP and All Midstate tailback is number two fullback for the Vols and plays on special teams.
Edgmon is expected to get reps in the game against his friend and former teammate.
The Vols will be heavy favorites to get their first win for Dooley, but Dunavant and the Skyhawks coaches and players are all in agreement that the game is played on the field — not on paper.