Sources: Clemson's Interested in Phil Fulmer

The National Football Post says sources have informed them that "Clemson University may be interested in hiring current Tennessee Volunteers head coach Philip Fulmer to fill the vacancy left by Tommy Bowden."

This makes sense on many levels. Clemson could pick up a coach with a national championship and two SEC titles on his resume, not to mention 150 wins in Knoxville. Fulmer has not been competitive in the Southeastern Conference this year, but won 10 games in '07, that season culminating with an SEC Championship Game appearance and a bowl win over Wisconsin.

Fulmer had assembled the 6th-ranked recruiting class this year at Tennessee, and has recruited well in the Carolinas. And defensive coordinator John Chavis might well join Fulmer at his next gig, which would be quite the exciting package indeed for Tiger fans: Tennessee's defense has been relatively good this season under Chavis, despite being placed in an impossible position by the Vol offense.

At Clemson, Fulmer would likely never have to compete against Tennessee, save for a potential bowl matchup.

So with Fulmer, Clemson gets the full package: a proven head coach, possibly a good if not great defensive staff, recruiting ties, and championship prestige. Sure, Fulmer's had his issues lately. But perhaps a fresh start would the cure he needs to find his old winning ways.

Just one problem with all of that, however: Clemson's arch-rival? Steve Spurrier's Gamecocks.

For Phil Fulmer, that would have to feel like jumping out of the frying pan and into the fire.

Besides Spurrier, Phil Fulmer has six million reasons to relax and start fishing. Does the Great Pumpkin have another run in him? Only time will tell.

Previously at FanHouse:

Phillip Fulmer to Clemson?