Tennessee’s Triumph: Josh Heupel Named National Coach of the Year After Historic Season with the Volunteers!…read more…

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🏆 Tennessee’s Triumph: Josh Heupel Named National Coach of the Year After Historic Season with the Volunteers!…read more…

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — In a momentous recognition of leadership, resilience, and record-breaking success, Tennessee Volunteers head football coach Josh Heupel has been named National Coach of the Year, capping off one of the most memorable seasons in program history.

Heupel, who took the reins of Tennessee’s football program in 2021, has steadily rebuilt the Vols into a powerhouse of the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and a national contender. The 2024 season saw the Volunteers reach unprecedented heights, finishing with a 10–3 record, a berth in the College Football Playoff, and a renewed sense of pride across Rocky Top.

“This award reflects the hard work of everyone in our program — from our players and coaches to the support staff and the fans who show up every week,” Heupel said during a press conference at Neyland Stadium. “I’m truly honored, but this is a team award.”

The Volunteers’ rise under Heupel has been nothing short of remarkable. When he arrived in Knoxville, the program was struggling with instability and NCAA sanctions. In just a few seasons, he has transformed Tennessee into a model of consistency and high-octane football, largely thanks to his fast-paced offensive scheme and strong player development.

Tennessee’s 2024 campaign was highlighted by wins over SEC rivals Georgia and Alabama, electrifying home crowds, and a top-10 national finish in total offense. Quarterback development has also been a key feature of Heupel’s tenure, with star QB Nico Iamaleava flourishing in his system and becoming a finalist for the Heisman Trophy.

“Coach Heupel has created a culture where we believe in ourselves, in each other, and in what this program can be,” Iamaleava said. “This is just the beginning.”

University of Tennessee Athletic Director Danny White, who hired Heupel in 2021, praised the coach’s vision and impact on the program.

“Josh Heupel brought belief back to this fanbase,” White said. “He brought discipline, innovation, and an expectation to win. This award is a testament to how far we’ve come — and how far we can still go.”

The National Coach of the Year award adds another milestone to Heupel’s growing legacy, which now includes an SEC Coach of the Year title, multiple top-10 recruiting classes, and the revitalization of a once-dormant national brand.

Vols fans are already looking forward to 2025 with high expectations, as key starters return and the program continues to recruit at an elite level. With momentum on their side and Heupel at the helm, Tennessee football appears poised to remain in the national spotlight for years to come.

As Rocky Top echoes through Knoxville, one thing is clear: Josh Heupel has turned the Volunteers into believers — and champions.

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