re: for the old-timers - the end of the Jim Smith era

True on most accounts. I was a walk-on in the mid-70's and there was always a spot for anyone who felt they were good enough and wanted to "try out." I respected that about the environment and coach back then. Unfortunately, recruiting was not nationally what it is today - but then again neither was football.
One moment I do recall from my freshman days was going 4-4 in scrimmage and trying to see if Coach Smith was "aware" of my accomplishments. He was sitting way up high in the stands at Alex Box.
I honestly think I would have made the team had I been smart enough to do the following:
#1 - Not try out for position w incumbent all-SEC performer in front of me (2nd base as I recall)
#2 - Not run trial time to 1st base from right side: should have went from left side and told coach I was switch-hitter
#3 - Not went out and partied (per usual) the Friday night before final practice (cut day)

Oh well, I can't complain. I was still playing baseball against the best players in the country every year through MSABL (Men's Senior Adult Baseball League) until recently. I guess you could say he was not a good judge of talent....