Dooley stays controversy-free at media days

HOOVER, Ala. -- Derek Dooley is no Lane Kiffin.

The new Tennessee coach was politically correct and controversy-free in his first address at Southeastern Conference media days on Friday.

He steered clear of questions about his outspoken predecessor Kiffin. Everyone from SEC Commissioner Mike Slive to Florida coach Urban Meyer and South Carolina's Steve Spurrier have referred to Kiffin without using his name.

Dooley says the Volunteers image is not where he wants it to be. It has taken another hit from a bar fight over the summer that involved at least six players.

He says he felt it was important for him to take swift action. Kiffin dismissed defensive back Darren Myles Jr. and suspended linebacker Greg King and defensive tackle Marlon Walls.