Where Tennessee Football is Ranked in On3’s Way-Too-Early Top 25
As college football fans turn their attention toward the 2025 season, many are already analyzing the potential contenders for the national title. While most teams are still in the midst of offseason preparation, analysts, fans, and insiders alike are speculating about which programs will rise to prominence next year. On3, one of the top college football recruiting and analysis platforms, has released its Way-Too-Early Top 25 rankings for the 2025 season, and Tennessee Football has made its presence felt in the list.
For the Tennessee Volunteers, the 2024 season marked a critical juncture in their rebuild under Head Coach Josh Heupel, and the 2025 campaign is already shaping up to be a pivotal one. The Vols have made significant strides under Heupel’s up-tempo offense, improving both on the field and in recruiting, and the national spotlight is starting to shine brighter on the program. With talented players returning, a strong recruiting class in the works, and renewed energy surrounding the team, Tennessee is well-positioned to build on the momentum from recent years.
In this article, we’ll break down Tennessee’s spot in On3’s Way-Too-Early Top 25, exploring why the Vols are ranked where they are, the factors contributing to their rise in the rankings, and what Tennessee fans can expect heading into the 2025 season.
Tennessee Football in On3’s Way-Too-Early Top 25
According to On3’s rankings, Tennessee Football comes in at No. 10 for the 2025 season. This is a significant leap for a program that, just a few years ago, was struggling to find its footing in the competitive SEC. After several seasons of underperformance, the Vols have emerged as a legitimate contender in the conference, with high expectations for the upcoming season.
The No. 10 ranking places Tennessee among the elite teams in college football, putting them in the upper tier of programs that are expected to compete for a spot in the College Football Playoff. This recognition is a testament to the work Heupel has done to reshape the program since his arrival in 2021. The team has made considerable strides in talent acquisition, player development, and overall performance on the field.
Why Tennessee is Ranked No. 10 in On3’s Way-Too-Early Top 25
Several key factors contribute to Tennessee’s high ranking in On3’s Way-Too-Early Top 25, which includes both immediate talent and long-term potential. Let’s explore some of the major reasons why the Vols are considered a top contender for the 2025 season.
1. A High-Powered Offense Led by Josh Heupel
One of the most significant reasons for Tennessee’s rise is the dynamic offensive system implemented by Josh Heupel. Known for his fast-paced, up-tempo offense, Heupel has revolutionized Tennessee’s attack, making it one of the most exciting and explosive units in the nation. The offense is predicated on spreading the field, playing at a rapid tempo, and creating mismatches for opposing defenses.
In 2023, Tennessee finished the season ranked 6th in total offense in the country, averaging 510.6 yards per game. While Hendon Hooker and Jalin Hyatt were key figures in the team’s success over the last two seasons, the offense is expected to continue to thrive in 2025 with the return of key contributors and the development of young talent.
Tennessee has established itself as a team capable of scoring quickly and efficiently. With Joe Milton returning as the starting quarterback, a player known for his strong arm and playmaking ability, the offense will remain a formidable force. Milton showed flashes of brilliance in the 2024 season and is expected to have a breakout year in 2025, fully mastering Heupel’s offense and providing the deep-ball threat that has become a hallmark of Tennessee’s attack.
Additionally, Tennessee’s receiving corps is expected to remain one of the strongest in the country. The team will return Squirrel White, one of the top playmakers in the SEC, and will likely add some exciting new recruits who will step into impactful roles. This offensive firepower positions Tennessee as a team that can challenge anyone in the country, keeping them high in the rankings.
2. A Stout Defense to Complement the Offense
While much of the attention surrounding Tennessee’s recent success has been focused on the offense, the Vols’ defense has also seen significant improvement under defensive coordinator Tim Banks. In 2024, Tennessee’s defense ranked 34th in total defense and made strides in limiting big plays, a major issue for the program in the past.
As the Vols continue to grow as a program, their defense has become a more consistent and reliable unit. Tennessee has recruited well on that side of the ball, adding several key pieces to the defense in recent years. With the return of players like Aaron Beasley and Tyler Baron, the Vols have a strong foundation on the defensive line and at linebacker. Their ability to rush the passer and disrupt opposing offenses will be a critical factor in their success in 2025.
In the secondary, Tennessee is expected to be one of the most talented and experienced units in the SEC, with Kamal Hadden and Juwan Mitchell leading the charge. Their ability to cover receivers and force turnovers will be crucial for Tennessee to remain competitive at the highest level.
While Tennessee is best known for its offensive prowess, the balance between a high-powered offense and an improving defense is one of the key reasons why they are ranked so highly heading into the 2025 season.
3. A Strong Recruiting Class
Another major factor contributing to Tennessee’s No. 10 ranking is its strong recruiting class for 2025. Under Heupel’s leadership, Tennessee has become a powerhouse in recruiting, particularly in the Southeast, which is known for producing some of the best high school football talent in the nation.
In 2025, the Vols have secured commitments from some of the top high school prospects in the country, including several five-star recruits. The addition of highly-touted players at key positions, such as quarterback, offensive line, and defensive back, has significantly bolstered the Vols’ roster.
In particular, Nico Iamaleava, the five-star quarterback from California, is expected to play a pivotal role in Tennessee’s future. While he may not start in 2025, his development in Heupel’s system will have a long-term impact on the program’s success. The overall depth and talent that Tennessee has accumulated through recruiting is one of the key reasons why the program is ranked in the top 10 for 2025.
Additionally, Tennessee’s ability to keep top talent in-state, with many of the state’s best high school prospects opting to play for the Vols, has further solidified their status as a national contender. This strong recruiting pipeline will continue to pay dividends for Tennessee as they move forward.
4. A Competitive SEC East
While the SEC West often dominates national discussions, the SEC East is home to some of the most competitive programs in the country, including Georgia, Florida, and Kentucky. Tennessee’s performance within the SEC East will play a major role in determining how high the Vols can climb in the rankings.
Georgia remains a dominant force in college football, but Tennessee has proven in recent years that it can compete with the best. In 2024, Tennessee went toe-to-toe with Georgia in a thrilling contest, pushing the Bulldogs to their limits. As the Vols continue to build momentum, a victory over Georgia in 2025 could be the key to securing a spot in the College Football Playoff and pushing for a national championship.
In addition to Georgia, Florida and Kentucky will provide tough competition for Tennessee in the SEC East. However, Tennessee’s recent success in recruiting and player development gives them an edge over many of their competitors in the division. If the Vols can continue to perform well within the SEC East, they will remain in the hunt for a College Football Playoff berth.
What Tennessee Fans Can Expect in 2025
Tennessee fans have much to look forward to in 2025. With a high-powered offense led by Joe Milton, a solid defense under Tim Banks, and an influx of top recruits, Tennessee is poised to remain one of the top teams in college football. While the road to the College Football Playoff will be challenging, Tennessee’s No. 10 ranking in On3’s Way-Too-Early Top 25 demonstrates that the program is on the right track.
Fans can expect Tennessee to continue its upward trajectory in 2025, competing for an SEC Championship and potentially securing a spot in the Playoff. The program’s combination of offensive firepower, defensive improvement, and recruiting success makes them one of the most exciting teams to watch in college football next season.
For Josh Heupel and the Volunteers, 2025 could be the year they break through and return to national prominence. With the right mix of experience, young talent, and a continued commitment to excellence, Tennessee football is on the verge of returning to the elite ranks of college football.
