Josh Heupel talks Neyland Stadium crowds, updates Tiyon Evans' status

Tennessee was without one of its best offensive players against Georgia in a 41-17 loss on Saturday, as running back Tiyon Evans was unable to play due to an ankle injury.

The 5-11, 220-pound junior’s status for Saturday’s game against South Alabama is unclear, but on Wednesday Tennessee coach Josh Heupel said he believes Evans’ injury is not season-ending.

Josh Heupel on Tiyon Evans status: We wait until the end of the week before we make a decision on our guys.

When asked if there's concern he's out for the season Heupel said, "don't believe that's the case." #Vols

— Kellyanne Stitts (@KellyanneStitts) November 17, 2021

Evans has carried the ball 81 times for 525 yards and 6 touchdowns this season.

In addition to having South Alabama at home on Saturday, Tennessee will also play its regular season finale against Vanderbilt at home.

On Wednesday, Hepuel was asked about what he has seen from the crowds at Neyland Stadium.

“True home-field advantage,” he said. “Knew that before I came here. The passion of our fan base and what gameday looks like inside that stadium is the best in college football. … We need it to be a great home-field advantage here this week and the following week. We want that and need that and feed off that energy. It’s really important that we finish the right way.”