Tennessee Football Supporters’ Outcry: The Call for Change in the 2025 Campaign

As Tennessee football approaches the 2025 campaign, a wave of frustration and discontent has swept through its fanbase. Fans of the Vols are expressing their anger and concern regarding the current state of the program, particularly about head coach Josh Heupel’s coaching staff. Despite the strides made under Heupel’s leadership in his first few seasons, many supporters feel that changes are necessary to take the program to the next level and compete for championships. This mailbag examines the concerns voiced by fans and analyzes what changes, if any, need to be made to the Tennessee football staff ahead of the 2025 season.

1. Tennessee’s Football Direction Under Heupel

When Josh Heupel was hired as head coach in 2021, the expectation was that he would bring a high-octane offense that could revive a Tennessee program that had been stagnant for years. Heupel’s first two seasons largely met these expectations: the offense ranked among the best in the SEC and nationally, quarterback Hendon Hooker emerged as one of the most dynamic players in college football, and the Vols made significant progress. In 2022, Tennessee reached a high point, finishing 11-2 and earning a spot in the College Football Playoff discussion.

However, despite the success of Heupel’s offensive system, the fanbase has increasingly voiced frustration over the team’s lack of consistency, particularly in the areas of defense and special teams. While Heupel’s offensive prowess is unquestionable, some believe that the team’s failures in other critical areas are limiting the potential of Tennessee’s program.

2. Defensive Concerns: The Elephant in the Room

For many Tennessee fans, the primary point of contention has been the defense. Despite having flashes of brilliance, the Vols’ defense has too often failed to deliver in crucial moments, particularly against high-powered offenses in the SEC. The decision to hire Tim Banks as defensive coordinator was met with some skepticism, but the hope was that he could bring stability and competence to a unit that had struggled for years.

However, after several seasons under Banks, many fans feel that the defense has not improved as much as expected. The Vols have had trouble stopping high-scoring teams, and their defensive schemes have appeared outdated against modern offenses. In the SEC, where offenses like Alabama, Georgia, and LSU are known for their explosive plays, Tennessee’s defensive shortcomings have been glaring. These issues have cost the Vols games that they could have won, and have prevented them from making a serious push for the SEC title.

Several fans have called for a change in leadership on the defensive side of the ball, with some suggesting that a new defensive coordinator is necessary to help Tennessee compete for championships. Others are calling for a complete overhaul of the defensive staff, citing issues with player development, recruiting, and game-day execution.

3. Special Teams: A Forgotten Problem

While the offense and defense have received the most attention, Tennessee’s special teams have also been a point of contention. Special teams play, often overlooked by many, has been an area of concern throughout Heupel’s tenure. From inconsistent kicking to poor punt and kickoff coverage, Tennessee has struggled to win the hidden yardage battle that can make a significant difference in close games.

The importance of special teams in college football cannot be overstated, especially in the SEC, where close matchups are common. Fans have expressed their displeasure with the coaching in this area, particularly in situations where special teams mistakes have led to direct points for opponents or failed to set up the offense with favorable field position.

Heupel may need to reassess how special teams are handled in the coming season and consider bringing in a specialist to focus on that phase of the game. Many believe that the current staff has not done enough to elevate special teams, which has left Tennessee at a disadvantage in several key games.

4. Offensive Playcalling: Is Heupel’s System Still Effective?

Josh Heupel’s offensive system has been lauded for its fast pace and ability to put up huge point totals, but as the program has faced better competition, questions have arisen about whether his offensive system is sustainable in the long run. Opposing defenses have begun to adjust to Heupel’s up-tempo, pass-heavy scheme, and there have been instances where the offense has struggled to score against top-tier defenses, especially late in the season.

Some fans have argued that Heupel’s insistence on a high-speed offense has come at the expense of balance and adaptability. In certain games, Tennessee has appeared one-dimensional, relying too heavily on the passing game and failing to establish the run. This has led to periods of stagnation where the offense is unable to sustain drives and give the defense much-needed rest.

For Tennessee to take the next step and truly compete with the elite teams in the SEC, Heupel may need to reassess his offensive playcalling. While the system has been successful, some believe that a more dynamic approach is necessary to keep defenses on their toes and avoid becoming too predictable.

5. Recruiting: The Lifeblood of the Program

Another major area of concern for Tennessee supporters is recruiting. While Heupel has done a solid job of bringing in talent, there are still questions about whether the Vols are recruiting at a level that will allow them to consistently compete with SEC powerhouses like Georgia, Alabama, and LSU. In the highly competitive world of college football, recruiting is the lifeblood of any program, and many fans believe that Tennessee needs to step up its efforts.

Several fans have pointed to the importance of improving recruiting in key positions, especially on the defensive side of the ball. Tennessee has recruited well on offense, but the Vols have struggled to bring in elite defensive players who can make an immediate impact. With the SEC becoming more talent-rich than ever, Tennessee must find a way to elevate its recruiting game, particularly in the trenches and in the secondary.

Additionally, many fans have questioned the current recruiting strategies and relationships that Heupel and his staff have built. Some supporters believe that the program needs more aggressive recruiting tactics, while others feel that Tennessee is not doing enough to tap into its own state’s talent pool. Given the talent-rich high schools in Tennessee, a more focused effort to keep in-state players home could pay significant dividends.

6. The Pressure on Heupel: Is His Job at Risk?

As the 2025 season approaches, the pressure on Josh Heupel is mounting. While he has made significant progress, many Tennessee fans feel that it’s time for the program to take the next step. The expectations are high, and the Vols must contend with some of the toughest competition in college football. For Heupel, this means that changes are likely needed in order to quiet the growing discontent among fans and avoid further backlash.

Heupel has built a solid foundation at Tennessee, but he may need to reorganize his staff in order to reach the heights that fans expect. If the Vols cannot get their defense and special teams in order, or if the offense continues to show signs of stagnation, the pressure on Heupel will only intensify. A strong 2025 campaign will be crucial to silencing critics and proving that the program is headed in the right direction.

7. The Path Forward: Should Heupel Make Staff Changes?

The question of whether Josh Heupel should reorganize his staff for the 2025 campaign is a complicated one. While there is certainly merit to the frustrations expressed by fans, Heupel’s system has shown promise, and there is still time to address the program’s weaknesses. The defensive issues, special teams struggles, and recruiting concerns are valid, but many believe that the program is not far off from being a true contender in the SEC.

Heupel may need to take a long, hard look at his staff, particularly in the areas of defense and special teams. If changes are made, it will be important for him to bring in coaches who can elevate the program in these areas. In particular, a fresh approach to defense and special teams could provide the spark needed to push Tennessee into championship contention.

Ultimately, the Vols’ path forward will depend on Heupel’s ability to adapt and make the necessary changes to his staff. The Tennessee football community is passionate, and their calls for change reflect the high expectations that come with being a fan of a program with such a rich history. Whether or not Heupel can meet these expectations and lead the Vols to greatness remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the 2025 season will be a critical one for Tennessee football.