Tennessee retires Manning's No. 16

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (AP) Tennessee&#39;s starting quarterback has been wearing Peyton Manning&#39;s old No. 16 all season.<br> <br> He wore a different number on Saturday as the former star&#39;s number was retired.<br> <br> Manning was honored during a ceremony at midfield before No. 23 Tennessee&#39;s game against South Carolina.<br> <br> Quarterback Rick Clausen donned a No. 7 jersey in deference to Manning, who told Clausen to keep wearing his old number.<br> <br> ``It makes me even more humble,&#39;&#39; Manning said. ``I&#39;m not comfortable with him doing that.&#39;&#39;<br> <br> During the ceremony, the university unveiled a big sign bearing Manning&#39;s name and number near the scoreboard.<br> <br> Manning is the most decorated athlete in school history, the Southeastern Conference&#39;s all-time leading passer and a high academic achiever. Last season he set a new NFL record with the Indianapolis Colts for touchdown passes with 49.<br> <br> He is obviously still a big crowd favorite. Hundreds of Vols fans lined the street on campus for the Vol Walk where coaches and players make their way to the stadium. Coach Phillip Fulmer invited Manning to join them. After all, the walk goes down ``Peyton Manning Pass.&#39;&#39;<br> <br> ``I felt flattered,&#39;&#39; Manning said. ``A great thrill, a great rush.&#39;&#39;<br> <br> It is that kind of game day atmosphere that makes Manning appreciate his college days, he said. The only NFL games that come even closer to comparing to playing in the SEC is Monday night and playoffs games, Manning said. He said he would like the Colts to play a game in Neyland Stadium.<br> <br> ``There is no place like this,&#39;&#39; he said.<br> <br> Instead of leaving early for the NFL draft, Manning returned for his senior year in 1997 and won an SEC championship.<br> <br> ``It was one of the best decisions I&#39;ve made in my life,&#39;&#39; he said.<br> <br> Manning is the second player this season to have his number retired in a new process established by the university. Reggie White&#39;s No. 92 was retired earlier this season.<br> <br> Defensive lineman Doug Atkins will have his No. 91 retired on Nov. 19 at the Vanderbilt game.<br> <br> Clausen will wear No. 7 the rest of the season. It is the same number worn by his older brother, Casey, another former Vols QB.<br> <br> (Copyright 2005 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)