The Jon Gruden rumors are off and rolling.

   A few years ago, it was Gruden making eyes at Notre Dame.

   Last year, talk that Gruden would take a close look at Michigan.

   Now, the internet is going wild with speculation Gruden will flirt with Tennessee.

   In the past, Gruden set the table for the rumors by stating his admiration for the Fighting Irish and Wolverines.  Not surprising.  Gruden grew up in football.  When his father coached in South Bend, he felt firsthand the lure of Notre Dame.  And what football lifer wouldn't be taken by a Saturday afternoon at the Big House?

   While I don't see Gruden leaving for Tennessee, I could see him considering a move to Knoxville.

    Gruden has history at Tennessee.  He started his coaching career as a graduate assistant at Tennessee.  Gruden met his wife, Cindy, during those years at Tennessee.

    The Volunteers could give Gruden NFL money.  Reports Tennessee may be willing to pony up some $5-million a year.  But, I have trouble believing that even Tennessee boosters would ante up that kind of money along with $6-million for the departing Phil Fulmer.

    Gruden knows success at Tennessee would come quicker than Notre Dame or Michigan.  Gruden knew that with the Buccaneers.  And he won the Super Bowl in his first season.

    If the Buccaneers keep winning, Gruden stays.

    If the Buccaneers stumble...you never know.

    Al Keck