Tennessee’s win over Alabama on Saturday did more than shake up the rivalry crowd in Neyland Stadium. It also gave the Volunteers another chance to put their recruiting pitch in front of one of the country’s more sought-after young backs, and 2028 North Cobb standout Zachary Belyeu came away with a strong impression.
The 5-foot-11, 210-pound Georgia native was in Knoxville to watch Tennessee knock off the Crimson Tide, 26-10, and he left calling the trip “great overall.” For Belyeu, the experience wasn’t just about the game itself. He pointed to the way he was treated around the program as a big part of what stood out.
"The visit was great overall, like the hospitality." Belyeu said.
Belyeu, who is listed as a four-star prospect in the 2028 class by Rivals Industry Rankings, enters the cycle with plenty of national attention. He checks in as the 31st player in Georgia, the 16th-ranked running back in his class, and the 275th-ranked player nationally. His offer sheet already includes some major names, with Ohio State, Indiana, Georgia, and Tennessee among the programs that have extended offers.
During the visit, Belyeu spent the most time with Josh Heupel and running backs coach De'Rail Sims, and he came away impressed with both.
"Spoke to coach Heupel and Coach Sims the most, good talking to them, Great men." Belyeu said.
Tennessee wasn’t the only stop on his radar, though. Belyeu said he plans to head to South Carolina next and will take a look at the Gamecocks, where he’s been impressed by the work running backs coach Stan Drayton has done.
"Heading up to the South Carolina game to check them out, the running backs there have been very impressive, Coach Drayton is doing a great Job." Belyeu said.
As for his own timeline, Belyeu laid out a rough target for when things could start tightening up. He said he expects to have a top 10 by January and make a decision by spring.
"Should be having a top 10 by January and commit by the spring." Belyeu said.
He also said another trip back to Knoxville remains in play, though nothing is locked in yet.
"For sure, depends on how my recruiting goes, there’s still other schools in the race." Belyeu said.
And when asked about Tennessee’s chances of landing an official visit, Belyeu indicated the Volunteers are in position to get one.
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