As the 2025 college football season approaches, the Tennessee Volunteers (Vols) are gearing up for a thrilling campaign, and their broadcast team is ready to bring the excitement of every game to fans across the nation. The Vol Network, a flagship sports network of the University of Tennessee, has always been an integral part of the Volunteers’ football experience, offering in-depth coverage, expert analysis, and a fan-first approach to broadcasting. With the unveiling of their 2025 football broadcast team, Tennessee continues to showcase its commitment to providing top-tier coverage for the Big Orange faithful.
This year’s broadcast team includes a mix of seasoned veterans and fresh faces, offering fans a diverse and dynamic mix of voices that will keep listeners informed, entertained, and engaged throughout the season. Whether you’re tuning in on the radio, watching live on TV, or streaming online, the Vol Network’s football broadcasts are sure to provide the high-quality, passionate coverage that Tennessee fans have come to expect.
Let’s take a closer look at the key members of the 2025 Vol Network Football Broadcast Team, the changes and new additions, and what fans can expect from the network’s coverage this fall.
1. The Voice of the Vols: Bob Kesling
For over two decades, Bob Kesling has been synonymous with Tennessee football. As the lead play-by-play announcer for the Vol Network, Kesling has earned the title of “The Voice of the Vols,” and his contributions to Tennessee’s football broadcasts have become legendary. Kesling’s deep knowledge of the game, combined with his warm, welcoming voice, has made him a fan favorite and a beloved figure within the Vols community.
Kesling’s tenure with the Vol Network began in 1999, and since then, he has called countless iconic moments in Tennessee football history, including bowl games, thrilling SEC matchups, and the unforgettable 2004 win over Texas A&M in the Cotton Bowl. His experience and passion for the Vols program are unmatched, and he continues to bring the energy, enthusiasm, and professionalism that make Tennessee football broadcasts so compelling.
For 2025, Kesling will once again serve as the primary play-by-play voice of the Vol Network’s football broadcasts. His ability to describe the action with precision and clarity will be critical as the team looks to build on a promising 2024 season. Fans can expect Kesling’s familiar voice to provide the soundtrack to many memorable moments in 2025, and his deep connection to the team and the University of Tennessee will continue to shine through in every broadcast.
2. Analyst and Former Vol: Tim Irwin
Joining Kesling in the booth will be Tim Irwin, a former Tennessee football player and a key figure in the Vol Network’s coverage for over a decade. Irwin, a former offensive lineman for the Vols, brings a wealth of football knowledge and a unique perspective to the broadcast. His understanding of the game’s nuances, particularly the trenches, adds depth to the commentary and provides valuable insights that fans may not otherwise hear.
Irwin played for Tennessee from 1979 to 1982, earning All-SEC honors and becoming a key contributor on the offensive line. Following his playing career, Irwin went on to play in the NFL, where he spent several seasons with the Minnesota Vikings. His extensive football background makes him an ideal analyst for the Vol Network, as he is able to break down plays and situations with an in-depth understanding of the game’s strategy and tactics.
Irwin’s chemistry with Kesling has become a hallmark of the Vol Network’s football broadcasts, and the two have developed a seamless partnership over the years. Their rapport and shared passion for Tennessee football create a dynamic broadcast duo that resonates with listeners. Irwin’s insights, combined with Kesling’s play-by-play expertise, give fans a complete, well-rounded listening experience.
For the 2025 season, Irwin will continue to bring his expertise and insider knowledge to the broadcast booth, helping fans understand the intricacies of Tennessee’s offensive and defensive schemes while providing analysis on player performances and game strategy.
3. Sideline Reporter: Cara Cox
One of the exciting additions to the Vol Network’s football broadcast team in 2025 is Cara Cox, who will serve as the team’s new sideline reporter. Cox, who has a background in sports journalism and broadcast media, is known for her ability to gather key information and provide timely updates during games. Her presence on the sidelines will add another layer of depth to the broadcast, as she will have direct access to coaches, players, and key personnel throughout each game.
Cox’s role as a sideline reporter will involve providing updates on injuries, pre-game and halftime interviews, and on-the-ground analysis of the action as it unfolds. She will also be tasked with capturing the atmosphere on the field, adding color to the broadcast with her observations of player interactions, crowd energy, and other behind-the-scenes moments that fans typically don’t get to see. Her reports will offer a unique, in-the-moment perspective, helping to bring fans closer to the game.
Cox is no stranger to the world of sports broadcasting, having worked with several major sports networks prior to joining the Vol Network. Her energetic and engaging style is sure to resonate with Vols fans, and her insights will enhance the overall viewing experience.
4. Pre-Game, Post-Game, and Halftime Coverage: The Vol Network’s Expanded Team
In addition to the core broadcast team, the Vol Network has expanded its coverage in 2025 to include a range of experts who will provide pre-game, post-game, and halftime analysis. This expanded team includes former players, coaches, and analysts who will offer deep insights into the game’s strategy, player performances, and the overall dynamics of Tennessee football.
Pre-game coverage will feature a comprehensive breakdown of the matchup, including analysis of both teams’ strengths and weaknesses, key players to watch, and tactical breakdowns. Expect to hear from a range of analysts, including former Tennessee players and coaching staff, who will provide detailed insights into the game. The pre-game show will also feature interviews with head coach Josh Heupel, key players, and special guests who provide a deeper understanding of the team’s preparation for the upcoming game.
Post-game coverage will feature in-depth analysis and reflections on the game, including breakdowns of key plays, standout performances, and a look at how the Vols executed their game plan. The post-game show will also include interviews with players and coaches, giving fans a chance to hear from the team immediately following the final whistle.
Halftime coverage will be fast-paced, with analysis of the first half’s key moments, predictions for the second half, and fan interaction. The halftime show will feature real-time updates from the field, as well as a closer look at any adjustments Tennessee is making at the break.
5. New Digital Platforms and Streaming: A Broader Reach
In addition to its traditional radio and TV broadcasts, the Vol Network is also embracing new digital platforms and streaming services to reach a broader audience. For the 2025 season, Tennessee fans will be able to listen to and watch games on a variety of platforms, including the Vol Network’s official app, the Tennessee Athletics website, and major streaming platforms like YouTube and ESPN+.
The integration of digital platforms allows the Vol Network to engage with a new generation of fans who may prefer to stream games on their mobile devices, smart TVs, or computers. The ability to watch or listen to games from anywhere in the world is a game-changer, ensuring that fans are always connected to their team, no matter where they are.
6. Fan Engagement and Interaction: A New Era of Coverage
One of the standout features of the Vol Network’s 2025 broadcast team is their focus on fan engagement and interaction. The network is committed to creating a more immersive experience for listeners and viewers, allowing them to participate in the broadcast through social media, live polls, and interactive segments.
Fans will be encouraged to send in questions and comments for the analysts during live broadcasts, participate in Twitter polls and quizzes, and even share their own game predictions. The Vol Network’s social media channels will be more active than ever, offering behind-the-scenes content, pre-game analysis, and live updates during games.
This fan-first approach aligns with Tennessee’s broader commitment to fostering a strong sense of community among Vols supporters. By integrating fan interaction into the broadcast, the Vol Network is creating a more inclusive and dynamic experience that enhances the connection between the team and its supporters.
7. The Road Ahead: What to Expect in 2025
As the Tennessee Volunteers head into the 2025 season, there is a sense of excitement surrounding the program. Under the leadership of head coach Josh Heupel, the team has made significant strides in recent years, and expectations are high as they look to compete for an SEC championship and a spot in the College Football Playoff.
For the Vol Network’s broadcast team, this season represents a fresh opportunity to showcase their talents, engage with fans, and bring the excitement of Tennessee football to a national audience. Whether it’s a thrilling victory against a rival, a hard-fought SEC battle, or a heart-pounding bowl game, the Vol Network’s 2025 broadcast team will be there to capture every moment.
From Bob Kesling’s iconic voice in the booth to the in-depth analysis of Tim Irwin and the real-time updates from Cara Cox on the sidelines, the Vol Network’s team is poised to deliver top-tier coverage that will keep fans on the edge of their seats all season long.
The 2025 season is shaping up to be an unforgettable year for Tennessee football, and with this talented broadcast team in place, fans can rest assured that they will not miss a single moment of the action.
