For the first time in his career, Tennessee Vols head coach Josh Heupel will be on the opposing sideline in Norman, Oklahoma, a place that holds deep significance for him. On Saturday, Heupel will face his alma mater, the Oklahoma Sooners, who have recently joined the SEC, in what promises to be a headline matchup of the week. The former Heisman-contending quarterback, now a top-10 ranked, undefeated head coach, addressed his emotions during Monday’s pre-game press conference.
“It’ll be unique,” Heupel shared. “I’ve got former teammates and friends back there. They started hitting me up last week already. It’s going to be different being on the opposing sideline, a spot I’ve never stood on, even in a scrimmage. But it’s something I’m really looking forward to. There are so many people who played a huge part in my journey, and I hope I get the chance to say hello to many of them.”
Heupel reflected on the deep connections he still has at Oklahoma, not just with former teammates and coaches but with members of the staff, players he coached, and close friends. “There’s a guy who was in my wedding still there. It’s a lot of people I have respect for,” he added, highlighting the emotional weight of returning to a place so closely tied to his career and personal life.
This will mark the first SEC game for the Vols this season, and they enter the contest as 7-point favorites. The matchup has already been pegged as the College Gameday headline game of the week, adding extra excitement to Heupel’s return to Norman. As Heupel prepares to take on his alma mater, the stage is set for a thrilling contest between two powerhouse programs with rich histories and bright futures.
