Coach Fulmer played college ball for the Volunteers under Bill Battle and Doug Dickey. He parlayed that time as an interior lineman with Chip Kell into a future coaching. Fulmer served under Johnny Majors in multiple positions, notably along the offensive line and eventually guiding the entire offense. When Coach Johnny Majors had to sit out the first four games of 1992, it was Fulmer who stepped in, going 4-0. He also coached the bowl game, a victory as well. Fulmer would take over as head coach from Coach Majors and would post a perfect 5-0 record against the top ranked team in college football over his tenure. He won at least 10 games 9 times in 16 seasons. Five other seasons were at least 8-win years. He mentored Peyton Manning to the first overall pick in the 1998 NFL draft, and then, while Manning played his rookie season for the Colts, proceeded to guide the Vols to a perfect 13-0 season and en route to winning the first BCS National Championship game. Fulmer ended his career as head coach in 2008 after just his second losing season.
Phil Fulmer, College Football Hall of Fame Class of 2012
Phil Fulmer, College Football Hall of Fame Class of 2012
