Chavis says he’d rather wear dress than be scared

Knoxville, Tenn. — There’s been plenty of buzz about whether Tennessee star safety Eric Berry could see some time playing on offense or returning kickoffs or punts.

Defensive coordinator John Chavis was asked during the Vols’ Tuesday media day if the idea of giving up Berry to spend some time on the other side of the ball made him nervous.

Chavis, the often stoic coach known around the Tennessee program as “Chief,” was in more of a joking mood after the Vols’ 34-3 win over Mississippi State.

He had this to say about being afraid, drawing chuckles from around the room: “I can’t wear my wife’s dress right now … but if I ever get afraid, I’m just going to stay at home and probably start cross-dressing.”

Chavis says the team must do whatever is needed to win against second-ranked Alabama on Saturday, and acknowledged that he’s all for Berry playing elsewhere if his fellow coaches think it will help.

Berry leads the nation with five interceptions this season and holds the Southeastern Conference record for career interception return yardage with 397 yards.