Tennessee Volunteers Head Coach Josh Heupel Speaks After Second Preseason Scrimmage at Neyland Stadium, Sharing Insights on Team Progress
Tennessee Volunteers head coach Josh Heupel addressed the media following the team’s second preseason scrimmage at Neyland Stadium, offering insights into the program’s preparation, progress, and the evolving dynamics of the roster. The scrimmage, which featured a mix of returning veterans, incoming freshmen, and transfer additions, provided fans and observers with a glimpse of how Heupel’s system is taking shape heading into the 2025 season. With the iconic stadium as the backdrop, Heupel’s remarks underscored both optimism and a commitment to continual improvement.
From the opening moments of the scrimmage, it was clear that the Volunteers are emphasizing a fast-paced, disciplined approach under Heupel’s guidance. The team executed a series of scripted plays and situational drills designed to test fundamentals, decision-making, and adaptability under pressure. Offense and defense engaged in back-and-forth sequences that revealed both strengths and areas requiring further refinement. For Heupel, these scrimmages serve as more than just practice—they are opportunities to evaluate chemistry, execution, and readiness across the roster.
Speaking to the media after the session, Heupel emphasized the importance of evaluation and development during preseason activities. “Every snap we take in these scrimmages is a chance to learn,” Heupel said. “We’re looking at how our players respond under pressure, how they communicate, and how they execute the fundamentals we’ve been emphasizing all offseason. This is about preparation, not just performance.” His comments highlighted the meticulous attention to detail that has defined the Volunteers’ approach to practice, from position drills to full-team simulations.
One key focus for the coaching staff during this second scrimmage was the quarterback room. Heupel and his offensive coordinators were able to assess the decision-making, accuracy, and poise of multiple signal-callers, including returning players and new targets. Several players took meaningful reps, demonstrating their understanding of the playbook and their ability to adapt to defensive adjustments. Heupel noted that the competition within the quarterback room is fostering growth, pushing each player to perform at a higher level while reinforcing accountability.
Running backs and receivers also drew attention during the scrimmage. The Volunteers emphasized timing, route execution, and blocking schemes, allowing the coaching staff to gauge chemistry and identify areas for improvement. Wide receivers made a series of contested catches that impressed the staff, while running backs showcased vision, burst, and decision-making in both open-field and inside-the-tackle drills. According to Heupel, these sessions provide critical feedback that informs weekly practice plans and helps shape the overall offensive strategy.
On the defensive side, the scrimmage highlighted the Volunteers’ focus on communication, alignment, and situational awareness. Linebackers and defensive backs were tasked with responding to various offensive formations, testing their ability to diagnose plays quickly and adjust in real-time. Heupel praised the defensive unit for their intensity, noting that the players’ effort and attention to detail were evident throughout the session. He emphasized that consistent improvement on defense will be a key factor in the team’s success during the upcoming season.
Special teams also received attention during the scrimmage. Kickers, punters, and return units were evaluated in live scenarios, with coaches focusing on execution, consistency, and decision-making. Heupel underscored the importance of special teams as a complementary component to the overall game plan. “Field position and execution in special teams can determine the outcome of games,” Heupel remarked. “We want to make sure our guys understand their responsibilities and can perform under pressure, whether it’s a kickoff, punt, or field goal situation.”
Another theme Heupel addressed was player development and leadership. He highlighted the role of veteran players in mentoring younger teammates, facilitating communication, and setting the tone in practice and in the locker room. According to Heupel, fostering leadership within the roster is essential to building a cohesive and resilient team. He praised the returning core for their willingness to embrace accountability and support the growth of incoming athletes, creating a culture where players learn from one another.
The scrimmage also allowed Heupel to observe the integration of new transfers and freshmen into the system. Adapting to a new offensive and defensive scheme can be challenging, but early observations suggest that several newcomers are picking up the concepts quickly and contributing in meaningful ways. Heupel emphasized that while development is ongoing, these early evaluations are critical in identifying players who can make an immediate impact and those who will require additional coaching.
Fan engagement at Neyland Stadium added another layer of excitement to the scrimmage. Thousands of supporters watched from the stands, reacting to big plays, competitive sequences, and standout individual performances. Heupel noted that the presence of fans, even during preseason practice, adds energy and accountability for the players. “Our guys feed off the crowd,” he said. “It’s great to see the fans supporting us and giving them something to cheer about, even in a scrimmage setting. It creates a little bit of a game-like atmosphere that’s invaluable for preparation.”
Throughout the media session, Heupel remained measured and focused on the bigger picture. While acknowledging impressive individual performances, he emphasized that the ultimate goal is team cohesion, execution, and readiness for competitive play. “It’s important to remember that scrimmages are about learning and improving,” he said. “We’re evaluating our processes, our decisions, and our execution. The players are learning how to play together, how to handle pressure, and how to adapt. That’s what will carry over into the season.”
Heupel also addressed questions about the Volunteers’ offensive philosophy and approach for the upcoming season. He reiterated a commitment to balanced, fast-paced, and adaptable football, emphasizing versatility and situational awareness. “We want to be a team that can adjust, execute, and capitalize on opportunities,” he said. “That means every player understanding their role, knowing the scheme, and executing it at a high level. These scrimmages are about testing that understanding and making adjustments where necessary.”
In addition to technical and tactical insights, Heupel highlighted the importance of team culture and accountability. Preseason scrimmages offer an opportunity to reinforce expectations, challenge players to compete in a controlled environment, and evaluate how they respond to adversity. He emphasized that creating a culture of high standards, communication, and mutual support is as critical as developing physical skills and executing plays.
Looking ahead, Heupel and his staff plan to incorporate feedback from the scrimmage into upcoming practices, focusing on areas identified during live-action sequences. Quarterback reads, offensive timing, defensive alignment, and special teams execution will all be refined, with additional attention paid to minimizing mistakes and enhancing consistency. According to Heupel, these adjustments are part of a deliberate and methodical approach aimed at preparing the team for the challenges of the regular season.
Heupel also discussed the balance between competition and development. Preseason scrimmages are an opportunity to test player depth, explore matchups, and experiment with personnel groupings. He emphasized the need to strike a balance between giving younger players experience and ensuring that key veterans are ready to perform at the highest level. “We’re trying to develop everyone while maintaining focus on execution,” he said. “It’s about building depth, testing situations, and ensuring that our leaders are ready to step up when it matters most.”
For fans, the scrimmage and Heupel’s remarks offered reassurance about the trajectory of the program. There was visible energy on the field, strong communication, and flashes of skill that promise an exciting season ahead. The head coach’s emphasis on fundamentals, teamwork, and preparation reflects a program committed to sustained success, rather than relying solely on individual talent or short-term performance.
Heupel concluded his media session by emphasizing the ongoing nature of preparation. “We’ve made progress, but there’s still a lot of work to do,” he said. “Scrimmages are checkpoints, not endpoints. Our focus is on improving every day, understanding our responsibilities, and building the kind of team that can compete at a high level week in and week out. The effort, energy, and commitment we’re seeing gives me confidence that we’re moving in the right direction.”
In summary, Tennessee Volunteers head coach Josh Heupel used the opportunity following the second preseason scrimmage at Neyland Stadium to communicate progress, expectations, and a clear vision for the season ahead. From evaluating quarterbacks and integrating newcomers to emphasizing fundamentals and leadership, Heupel painted a picture of a program that is organized, competitive, and poised for growth. Fans, analysts, and players alike left the session with a sense of optimism, excitement, and anticipation, eager to see how these early developments translate into on-field success in the weeks and months to come.
The scrimmage may have been a controlled environment, but for Heupel and the Volunteers, it was a crucial step in building cohesion, testing strategies, and reinforcing culture. As preseason continues and the regular season approaches, the insights gained from this second scrimmage will serve as a foundation for preparation, execution, and performance at the highest level. With a clear plan, talented players, and a committed coaching staff, Tennessee looks ready to make its mark in the 2025 season, guided by the steady hand of Josh Heupel.
