Former Florida Gators and Ohio State Buckeyes head coach Urban Meyer recently made a statement about the Tennessee Vols that’s sure to get fans in Knoxville excited. On The Triple Option, Meyer revealed that he ranks Tennessee as the No. 4 team in college football following their victory over the Oklahoma Sooners. What’s even more exciting for Vols fans is what an NFL scout told Meyer about Tennessee’s resurgence.
Meyer shared that a trusted NFL scout, who assists him with evaluations, made a powerful observation: the current Vols remind him of the “Tennessee of old.”
“I got inside information on Tennessee,” Meyer said. “I have an NFL guy that scouts and helps me with things. He said, ‘It looks like the Tennessee of old, that’s the respect I had for the old Tennessee outfit.'”
Meyer went on to praise Tennessee’s quarterback, Nico Iamaleava, considering him a potential Heisman candidate and a future top-10 NFL draft pick. While acknowledging that Iamaleava still has areas to improve, Meyer emphasized the team’s overall strength and balance.
“They went into Norman, Oklahoma, and found a way to win,” Meyer said, referencing the Vols’ recent road win. “But he’s not the only show in Knoxville. They’re balanced on offense, have a strong run game, are solid in the trenches, and play excellent defense.”
Meyer continued by saying that Tennessee looks poised for an SEC Championship appearance and possibly an even higher national ranking.
For nearly two decades, Tennessee fans have been longing for the “Tennessee of old,” a program that was once feared across the country. And with head coach Josh Heupel at the helm, it seems like the Vols are finally returning to that elite level.
Heupel has brought an explosive offense, a renewed sense of confidence, and a tough defense to Knoxville. Tennessee had the potential all along—they just needed the right leader to restore the program’s former glory. According to Meyer and his NFL scout, Heupel is undoubtedly that guy. The Vols aren’t just back—they’re here to stay, and that’s a reason for fans to be fired up.
