Josh Heupel is the new leader of the Tennessee football program.
While that’s not a name many Vol fans likely saw coming, they will soon learn that Heupel brings an exciting brand of offense to Rocky Top which should be a welcome sign following the offense witnessed the previous three seasons in Knoxville.
“I am thrilled to be coming to Tennessee,” Heupel said in a released statement. “I understand that Volunteer fans are hungry for a return to the top that they so richly deserve, and it is my goal and commitment to bring a championship back to Rocky Top.”
Heupel’s offenses at UCF all ranked in the top 10 nationally in scoring offense eighth in 2020 (42.2), fifth in 2019 (43.4) and sixth in 2018 (43.2). He also has experience in the SEC running Missouri’s offense.
The Tigers ranked No. 125 nationally in total offense prior to hiring Heupel and ranked No. 8 nationally in total offense two seasons later before he took over the UCF program. Heupel’s final Mizzou offense also led the SEC in scoring.
Following the coach’s hire in Knoxville, a handful of players have weighed in on the hire.
Senior cornerback Alontae Taylor
https://twitter.com/taeetaylor/status/1354432701181403143
Freshman QB Kaidon Salter
https://twitter.com/KaidonSalter_7/status/1354433642727149572
Junior QB Brian Maurer
Simple ??♂️ https://t.co/yJnYeP9tyS
— Brian Maurer (@maurerera_2) January 27, 2021
Freshman WR Julian Nixon
back on track?
— Julian Nixon (@JulianNixon11) January 27, 2021
Sophomore DB Doneiko Slaughter
WE ON?❗️
— Doneiko Slaughter? (@Neikoslaughter) January 27, 2021
A graduate of the University of Tennessee, Michael Wayne Bratton oversees the news coverage for Saturday Down South. Michael previously worked for FOX Sports and NFL.com
