Tennessee offensive coordinator Joey Halzle points out the biggest thing the Vols’ offense needs to do better in 2025…
As the Tennessee Volunteers prepare for the 2025 football season, offensive coordinator Joey Halzle is focused on making substantial improvements in his unit. Following an up-and-down 2024 campaign, Halzle shared his thoughts on the biggest area that needs attention in the upcoming season.
The Vols have had no shortage of offensive firepower in recent years, highlighted by an explosive attack that brought Tennessee back into national prominence. However, Halzle knows that consistency is the key to sustaining success at the highest level.
Execution in the Red Zone
Halzle, who took over as offensive coordinator in 2024, noted that one of the Vols’ major areas of improvement heading into 2025 is their red zone execution. While Tennessee showed flashes of brilliance, they struggled at times to capitalize on their opportunities when they entered the critical scoring area.
“I think the biggest thing we need to do better is our execution in the red zone,” Halzle said in a recent interview. “We have the athletes, the scheme, and the mindset. But when it comes down to it, we need to be more efficient and finish drives with touchdowns instead of settling for field goals or turning the ball over.”
In the high-stakes SEC, where every point counts, these inefficiencies were highlighted in several close losses during the 2024 season. Halzle is aware of how much a failure to score in these crucial moments can derail a game, and he is working closely with the Vols’ offensive line, quarterback, and skill position players to ensure a better outcome in 2025.
Improving Offensive Line Play
A key component to red zone success is the performance of the offensive line. Halzle emphasized that improving their play in tight spaces is just as crucial as mastering the passing game. The Vols’ offensive line will have to be better in short-yardage and goal-line situations, where power running and the ability to win battles at the line of scrimmage are non-negotiable.
“We’ve got to be better at pushing defenders back when it matters most,” Halzle explained. “We need to win the one-on-one matchups and create lanes for our backs. At times last season, we didn’t get enough push, and that has to change.”
As Tennessee prepares for the 2025 season, Halzle and head coach Josh Heupel are hoping to make adjustments to their offensive line rotation and develop deeper cohesion across the unit. This includes balancing the pass protection needs with the physicality required for successful run blocking.
Quarterback Play and Decision-Making
Halzle also acknowledged the importance of improving quarterback decision-making in the red zone. The Vols will return talented quarterbacks, and Halzle stressed the need for them to become even more efficient in reading defenses and knowing when to take what the defense gives them.
“We want our quarterbacks to have a clear understanding of what the defense is trying to do,” Halzle said. “In the red zone, it’s even more important to be decisive, both with the ball and when choosing to take shots. We can’t afford to force passes into tight windows or make mistakes that result in turnovers.”
The challenge lies in getting quarterbacks to balance aggression with patience, knowing when to attack and when to be content with a check-down or throwing the ball away to avoid negative plays. Halzle’s focus is on developing better timing and rhythm in high-pressure situations.
Depth and Versatility of Skill Players
Finally, Halzle is confident in the depth and talent of the Vols’ skill position players. Tennessee boasts a dynamic receiving corps and a promising stable of running backs that could make the offense even more dangerous in 2025. Ensuring that players are well-prepared for all situations—whether it’s spreading the field, running the ball in critical situations, or using a tight end as a weapon—is crucial for Tennessee’s success.
“We have a lot of depth at skill positions, and I’m excited about the versatility we have,” Halzle said. “But we need to use all of our weapons more efficiently, whether it’s moving guys around, finding mismatches, or creating opportunities to attack defenses at all levels.”
As the 2025 season approaches, Joey Halzle’s focus on red zone execution, offensive line improvement, and better quarterback decision-making demonstrates his commitment to taking Tennessee’s offense to the next level. With a strong coaching staff, talented players, and an eye on key areas for growth, the Volunteers are looking to build on their recent success and make a deep run in the SEC and beyond.
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