Eight New Year’s Resolutions for Tennessee Football in 2025
As Tennessee football enters 2025, the Volunteers are coming off an eventful season under head coach Josh Heupel, who has revitalized the program with his up-tempo offense and recruiting prowess. The Vols have shown significant promise, but as with any elite program, there’s always room for improvement. The new year provides an excellent opportunity for Tennessee to set clear goals and make resolutions to take their program to the next level. Here are eight New Year’s resolutions for Tennessee football in 2025:
1. Improve Defensive Consistency
While Tennessee’s offense has been high-flying and exciting under Heupel, the defense has often been inconsistent. In 2025, Tennessee’s defense must become more reliable, especially in key SEC matchups. They need to improve their ability to stop the run, generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks, and cover effectively in the secondary. The Vols have shown flashes of brilliance on defense but have also been vulnerable at times, especially against top-tier offenses. In 2025, a more balanced team that excels on both sides of the ball will be crucial if Tennessee wants to challenge for an SEC title.
2. Develop a More Balanced Offensive Attack
The Tennessee offense has been a juggernaut under Heupel, but much of their success has been built on a pass-heavy, up-tempo style. While this system has worked wonders, particularly with standout quarterbacks and playmakers, Tennessee needs to develop a more balanced offensive attack in 2025. This means incorporating a more effective and consistent running game to complement their explosive passing offense. A strong run game will help Tennessee control the clock, wear down opposing defenses, and give their offense even more versatility. Establishing a power running attack will make them less predictable and harder to defend.
3. Maintain and Build on Recruiting Momentum
Tennessee has made significant strides in recruiting, consistently landing some of the best talent in the country. However, to sustain success, they must continue this momentum. In 2025, Tennessee must focus on signing elite prospects, particularly in key areas like the offensive line, defensive secondary, and at wide receiver. The Volunteers have a strong foundation but need to build depth at every position. The SEC is incredibly competitive, and staying ahead in recruiting will ensure Tennessee remains a perennial contender. Heupel’s ability to attract top-tier recruits will be essential for the future of the program.
4. Develop Quarterback Depth
In 2025, quarterback will be one of Tennessee’s most critical positions, with the team needing to address the post-Hendon Hooker era. While the Vols have several talented quarterbacks on the roster, finding a consistent starter who can lead the offense to new heights is paramount. Tennessee needs to continue to develop depth at the quarterback position, ensuring they have reliable options in case of injury or inconsistency. Whether it’s Joe Milton continuing his development or a younger quarterback stepping up, Tennessee must ensure their quarterback play is solid in 2025 to maintain offensive success.
5. Enhance Special Teams Play
Special teams often fly under the radar, but they play a vital role in determining the outcome of close games. In 2025, Tennessee should prioritize enhancing its special teams units, focusing on areas such as punt and kick coverage, field goal kicking, and the return game. Small mistakes in the special teams phase, such as missed field goals or poor punt coverage, can swing momentum and cost teams games. The Vols need to improve in these areas to make sure they have a complete and well-rounded team. A solid special teams unit can be the difference between winning and losing critical SEC matchups.
6. Improve Red-Zone Efficiency
While Tennessee’s offense has been productive and explosive, the Vols have occasionally struggled to convert opportunities in the red zone. In 2025, improving red-zone efficiency will be a key resolution. Converting red-zone trips into touchdowns instead of settling for field goals is essential, especially against tough SEC defenses. The Vols need to find more ways to punch the ball into the end zone and ensure they take full advantage of their offensive possessions inside the 20-yard line. Whether it’s through improved play calling, better execution from the offensive line, or utilizing the running game more effectively, this area must improve for Tennessee to reach the next level.
7. Boost Offensive Line Play
The offensive line is often the unsung hero of successful football teams, and for Tennessee to reach their potential in 2025, the offensive line must continue to improve. While Tennessee has had a solid line in recent seasons, the unit has faced occasional struggles against top-tier defenses. In 2025, Tennessee needs to establish dominance upfront, particularly against SEC rivals who possess strong defensive lines. The offensive line will be critical in establishing a balanced offense and creating running lanes for the running backs. Furthermore, a strong offensive line will give the quarterbacks more time to survey the field and make plays. Ensuring the offensive line continues to progress will be a key resolution.
8. Strengthen Mental Toughness and Consistency
One of the defining characteristics of elite teams is their ability to maintain focus and poise, especially in pressure-packed situations. Tennessee has shown glimpses of greatness but has occasionally struggled with consistency and mental toughness, particularly in close games or when facing adversity. In 2025, Tennessee needs to prioritize mental resilience, ensuring that the team remains focused and composed no matter the situation. Whether it’s staying calm in a close game, bouncing back after a tough loss, or executing under pressure, mental toughness is crucial for sustained success. The ability to maintain a high level of play regardless of the circumstances will determine how far Tennessee can go in 2025.
Tennessee’s Path to Greatness in 2025
As Tennessee looks toward 2025, the program is on the cusp of something special. With a high-powered offense, a strong recruiting pipeline, and the leadership of Josh Heupel, Tennessee is poised to continue its ascent in the SEC and on the national stage. However, for the Volunteers to truly become a championship contender, they must address key areas like defensive consistency, quarterback depth, and red-zone efficiency.
The New Year’s resolutions outlined above are just the beginning of what should be an exciting and transformative season for Tennessee football. If the Vols can make progress in these areas, there’s no reason why they can’t challenge for an SEC title and a spot in the College Football Playoff in 2025. With the right mindset and continued development, the Volunteers could be on their way to a bright future in college football.
