Even way back then, I found it amusing that Peyton decided to stay in college for four years, attemting to win a national championship to cement his legacy, rather than turn pro. Instead Steve Spurrier and the Florida Gators beat Manning and Tennessee four consecutive times. As a result Manning lost out to Charles Woodson for the Heisman trophy as well.
Then, the very first season after Manning is gone, the Vols - with Tee Martin at QB - beat Florida and Georgia to win the SEC, then defeat #2 Florida State to win the national championship.