Tennessee Football Eyes College Football Playoff Return Despite Roster Turnover, Offensive Overhaul…

Tennessee Football Eyes College Football Playoff Return Despite Roster Turnover, Offensive Overhaul

 

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — As summer workouts heat up on Rocky Top, Tennessee football has its sights set on a return to the College Football Playoff — a lofty goal amid roster turnover and a retooled offense. But the Vols believe they have the talent and leadership to make it happen, with rising stars like Jermod McCoy, Boo Carter, and Arion Carter leading the charge.

After an 11-win season in 2022 and a step back in 2023, head coach Josh Heupel is looking to push the Vols back into national title contention. But the road back to the CFP won’t be easy. Quarterback Joe Milton is gone, the offensive line has new faces, and Heupel’s high-tempo scheme is undergoing an adjustment with a new signal-caller under center.

Despite those challenges, there’s no shortage of optimism in Knoxville. A big reason? Talent. The Vols have quietly assembled one of the most dynamic young defensive cores in the SEC — and maybe in the country.

Jermod McCoy, a physical and versatile defensive back, has drawn rave reviews from coaches for his aggressive play and instinctive coverage skills. The sophomore has the potential to become a lockdown corner in a league known for elite receiver play. His growth could help Tennessee shore up a pass defense that struggled at times last season.

Meanwhile, Boo Carter, a highly-touted athlete from Chattanooga, has exploded onto the scene with his energy and versatility. Whether he’s lined up at safety, returning kicks, or flying downhill to stuff the run, Carter’s playmaking ability could be a game-changer for Tennessee’s special teams and defensive packages.

Then there’s Arion Carter, the former freshman phenom who now anchors the Vols’ linebacker corps. Carter combines SEC speed with a downhill, old-school mentality. Coaches believe he could develop into one of the most complete linebackers in the conference — if not the country — this season.

“Those three guys are the heartbeat of what we want to be defensively,” Heupel said during SEC Media Days. “They bring intensity, they bring leadership, and they play fast.”

On offense, the Vols will rely on a new quarterback — likely redshirt freshman Nico Iamaleava — to guide Heupel’s high-octane attack. While untested, Iamaleava has shown flashes of brilliance in limited action and is surrounded by a strong supporting cast, including returning running back Dylan Sampson and a revamped receiving corps.

If the offense can gel early and the defense takes the expected leap forward, Tennessee could be a serious CFP threat. The SEC schedule is never forgiving, but marquee matchups against Alabama, Georgia, and Oklahoma offer high-profile chances to build a playoff résumé.

While the Vols face questions, they also carry confidence — and talent.

“Our goal is to compete for championships,” Heupel said. “We’re not rebuilding. We’re reloading.”

For Tennessee fans hoping to see the Vols return to the national spotlight, 2025 could be the year it all comes together — with McCoy, Boo Carter, and Arion Carter leading the charge.