This week, our literary contributors commented on a wide range of topics. All of their contributions were eloquently written and most of them made sense.
Some people are worried about other posters. The other concerns my high expectations for Tennessee football.
The basketball transfer caused some anger. And patriotic contributors want Tennessee basketball players on the court during the national anthem.
One literary contributor is determined to be optimistic about the Lady Vols' new basketball coach, but his inner skepticism is causing concern.
James writes: If Coach Heupel doesn't have your picture on his dartboard, he should. I read that TN is on a roll and heading into the playoffs. Great job of setting unrealistic expectations for Vols fans.
My reaction: Tennessee quarterback Niko Iamareava will be throwing the darts. If the Vols can win eight games in the regular season with quarterback Joe Milton, they should be able to win 10 with Imareaba. And with 10 wins, the Vols could advance to the 12-team playoffs.
Anything less will be a disappointment.
John writes: The portal has been attacked again. Just like an addictive drug, Portal inspired two of his very popular Vols, Aidoo and Awaka.
As a concerned fan, I wish those players the best of luck and hope the door doesn't hit them on their butts as they exit.
My reaction: Transfer door swings in both directions. Once the shaking stops, Tennessee may have a better roster than it had before the season started.
Billy writes: I hope the “house” that Jim supposedly ran away from can catch him with an oversized hoop net like the ones you see in the cartoons. Plus I hope they get him back there and he's resting comfortably again.
My reaction: I consider the people who have contributed to literature to be my family, so it's heartwarming to read about how one family member cares about another.
Major writes: My only question is, will the Lady Vols actually be there and stand when the national anthem plays? It's a shame that this once great program lacks the professional courtesy and dignity to stand on the court and in front of the fans during the national anthem.
My reaction: The team adheres to a strict pregame routine, often leaving the team off the court during the national anthem. That way, coaches and programs wouldn't have to consider the possibility of players kneeling during the national anthem.
As a veteran, I want to see the players sitting and standing on the floor when the national anthem is played. But I'm also a big supporter of free speech.
However, if the players want to protest, they should do so on their own time, not when they are representing State University and all of its fans.
Chad writes: I always respect your point of view and seek out your articles. Anyway, let me just say this: I refuse to let any skepticism creep in. Kim Caldwell will return LV to elite status.
I'll tell you, of course, I was shocked when I found out that Danny White had been hired…and of course I Googled her because I had no idea who she was. This is where my skepticism comes into play. But I won't let it ruin the party.
My reaction: First of all, I respect your choice of reading material. Second, I wish you all the best in your fight against skepticism.
Caldwell has never coached at this level, but he has had success the two other times he has coached. Her team also plays exciting and interesting basketball.
Ted writes: Mr. Adams, I am a big fan of your column and enjoy your perspective on all things. Or the Lady Vols.
Personally, I hated seeing Kelly Harper go. Although she had her recruiting issues, she felt that she did a good job overall.
Pat Summitt's legendary career is a dream come true in sports, but it's time to stop comparing all women's basketball coaches to her accomplishments.
My reaction: No one can expect success like Summit. But you should expect the Lady Vols to have a national presence in the sport.
They owe Summit that much.
Adams:One reader sees gender discrimination in Kelly Harper's firing. I didn't see that coming.
Darryl writes: Which unlikely underdog between the Lady Vols' Kim Caldwell and UK recruit Mark Pope has the potential to restore glory to a downtrodden and once historic basketball program? It will be interesting to see.
I had never heard of either coach until their recent hires, and neither was certainly the first choice for AD.
My reaction: Auburn coach Bruce Pearl would have been a perfect fit for the Kentucky job. And I wouldn't have opposed Rick Pitino's return.
John Adams is a senior columnist. 865-342-6284 orjohn.adams@knoxnews.com. Follow him at twitter.com/johnadamskns.
