Now work begins for Tennessee’s new head coach, Josh Heupel. Rebuilding in Knoxville will not be easy, and the program still has some unknowns out there after the recruitment investigation.
With several players still on the transfer portal, the job of throwing these guys back to school begins. For the players remaining in this lineup, the learning of a new system and culture begins today.
Heupel’s reception by the players was extremely positive by those who approached him, very different from VolTwitter’s reception. Remember, Danny White interviewed these guys last week and asked them for specific characteristics that they would like to see on their next coach. White mentioned that encounter again today, saying that several of the players mentioned a different offensive direction. This was reflected in some of the comments from former players today.
Yesssirrrr let’s put some points! ✌
– Darel E. Middleton (@Darel__) January 27, 2021
Kaidon Salter, now Tennessee’s largest remaining commitment in the 2021 class, expressed support for the hiring. Heupel has many examples of how to help develop the best quarterbacks in college football.
Alontae Taylor, one of those now veteran voices, says Heupel is “what we needed”.
We have what we need, not what strangers THINK we need!
– Alontae Taylor (@taeetaylor) January 27, 2021
Quarterback Hendon Hooker, who will be fighting for the starting point this spring in Knoxville, also approves. His adjustment to the Heupel system offers a direct contrast to Harrison Bailey, who has not yet commented on the hiring.
All attention now turns to the hiring of Heupel’s coordinator. Will he stay with Kevin Steele? Can he lure Jeff Lebby away from Lane Kiffin? Jeremy Pruitt certainly received the green light to spend a ton of money on his assistants, now let’s see what Heupel’s next move will be.