As Tennessee gets set for the Music City Bowl and eyes the upcoming transfer portal window on January 2, head coach Josh Heupel is balancing a full plate. But in the middle of all the preparation, he took a moment to join “The Mike Keith Show” to talk about where the program stands - from bowl prep and roster development to the hiring of new defensive coordinator Jim Knowles.
Here’s a breakdown of what Heupel had to say, and what it all means as the Vols try to finish strong and build momentum heading into 2025.
Getting Back on the Grass
For Heupel, bowl season isn’t just about the game itself - it’s about development, continuity, and, just as importantly, fun.
“It’s good getting out on the grass with our guys,” Heupel said. “A lot of young guys are getting a ton of work.”
That’s a theme every December for college programs with bowl games. It’s not just a final chapter - it’s a springboard into the next season. For Tennessee, the extra practices are a key opportunity to evaluate and accelerate the development of younger players who may be stepping into bigger roles next year.
Bowl Practice Blueprint
So how does Tennessee structure bowl prep? According to Heupel, it’s a layered approach that starts with fundamentals and gradually builds toward full-speed game prep.
Early practices have focused on giving younger players reps - particularly in one-on-one, position-specific drills like offensive line vs. defensive line - before reintegrating veterans as the team transitions into full team sessions. That balance allows the coaching staff to get a long look at future contributors while still preparing for Illinois.
“You get to a true game week before we head to the bowl site,” Heupel explained. “Been handling it like that.”
NFL Declarations: McCoy, Brazzell II, and Carter
Three Vols - Jermod McCoy, Chris Brazzell II, and Arion Carter - have declared for the NFL Draft. Heupel emphasized that the program’s role is to support players through that process, helping them gather the right information and make the best decision for their futures.
“All three are going to play at the next level,” Heupel said. “We’re going to help them through this journey.”
It's a reminder that bowl season also serves as a transition point for players on the cusp of their professional careers. While the Vols will miss their contributions on the field, the staff is fully behind their next steps.
Who Steps Up at Receiver?
With Brazzell off to the NFL, Tennessee will look to two young receivers - Travis Smith and Radarious Jackson - to step into bigger roles in the Music City Bowl.
These aren’t unfamiliar names to the coaching staff. Heupel spoke highly of both before the season, praising their maturity and football IQ. Injuries slowed them down during the year, but both are back healthy and practicing at a high level.
“They’ve continued to grow here as we got back on the grass,” Heupel said. “I expect them to play at a really high level.”
It’s a prime opportunity for Smith and Jackson to show what they can do with extended snaps - and potentially stake a claim for more reps in 2025.
Tight Ends Getting Their Shot
With Jack Van Dorselaer banged up late in the regular season, Tennessee’s younger tight ends could see more action in the bowl game. Heupel didn’t name names, but he made it clear that the position group is expected to be active in the game plan.
“All those guys [are] getting the opportunity to play,” he said.
It’s another area where development meets opportunity - and where depth will be tested.
The Illinois Challenge
Tennessee’s defense will have its hands full with an Illinois offense that brings a physical, run-first identity to the table. Heupel pointed to the Illini’s veteran quarterback, strong play-action game, and ability to push the ball downfield as keys to the matchup.
“You got to have great gap integrity,” he said. “You got to destruct blocks and tackle extremely well.”
It’s a classic Big Ten-style offense, and it’ll demand discipline and toughness from a Vols defense that’s still evolving - and now under new leadership.
Jim Knowles: A New Voice on Defense
Speaking of that leadership, Jim Knowles has officially joined the program as Tennessee’s new defensive coordinator. Heupel said Knowles just arrived on campus Monday, and while he won’t be calling plays in the bowl game, he’s already diving into film, sitting in on meetings, and evaluating the roster.
“He’s got the ability to tweak it and make it fit,” Heupel said, referencing Knowles’ adaptability and experience. “His ability to change and evolve, but build elite defenses that allow you to go compete for championships.”
That’s the goal - and Knowles is being brought in to help Tennessee get there. His knowledge of offensive football, ability to build versatile schemes, and experience developing talent all factored into Heupel’s decision.
Freshman All-Americans: A Glimpse of the Future
Tennessee had five players named Freshman All-Americans - a testament to both recruiting and development. Heupel called it a sign of the program’s ability to get young talent ready to contribute quickly, even in the grind of SEC play.
“We were a young football team,” he said. “But we’ve got a lot of pieces of the puzzle here.”
It’s not just about celebrating individual honors - it’s about what those honors say about the program’s trajectory. Yes, there were disappointments this season, especially in the back half of the schedule. But the foundation is there, and Heupel believes the future is bright.
Roster Management and the Portal
With the transfer portal set to open in early January, Heupel acknowledged the importance of balancing youth with experience - especially when it comes to building a roster that can compete at a high level next fall.
“It’s important for us to make sure that at each position group we have the traits and the personality to go play the way that we want to,” he said.
That means adding the right pieces, not just the most available ones. Whether it’s plugging holes or adding depth, Tennessee will be active in the portal - and Knowles will play a role in identifying defensive fits.
Looking Ahead to Nashville
With the Music City Bowl just around the corner, Heupel closed his appearance with a holiday message for the fan base.
“Merry Christmas to our entire fan base,” he said. “Hope you enjoy the holidays with your family and look forward to seeing everybody in Nashville.”
The Vols may not be playing for a title this year, but there’s still plenty on the line - from developmental reps to statement performances. And with new leadership on defense and a wave of young talent stepping forward, this bowl game is more than just a finale. It’s a launching pad.