Josh Heupel praises Dylan Sampson's confidence, leadership in increased role

Josh Heupel briefly met with reporters Thursday ahead of the Vols’ Week 2 matchup against in-state foe Austin Peay.

Heupel addressed Tennessee RB Dylan Sampson, who had an incredible start to the season by rushing for 3 touchdowns against Virginia. He also added a receiving touchdown.

Sampson, who is just a sophomore, is part of a 3-headed RB attack that should be one of the top rushing threats in the SEC this year. Jaylen Wright and Jabari Small flank Sampson, with Small being the power back and Wright leaning towards being the Vols’ primary back.

On Thursday Heupel revealed that he loves Sampson’s confidence and want-to in becoming a leader for the offense. That, combined with his speed and athleticism in the backfield, put him in a position to be trusted on the goal line last Saturday.

Heupel on Dylan Sampson: He’s very confident in who he is and he knows what he is doing… He demands things out of the guys around him. And he is willing to act, which is a sign of great leadership.

— Rocky Top Insider (@rockytopinsider) September 7, 2023

Expect a lot out of Sampson this season at Tennessee. He finished last year – as a freshman, mind you – with just under 400 rushing yards and 6 touchdowns.

The Vols take on Austin Peay at 5 p.m. ET on ESPN+