Confirmed: ESPN had no choice but to put Tennessee Vols head coach Josh Heupel near the top of their latest rankings list
In a move that’s turning heads across the college football landscape, ESPN has placed Tennessee Volunteers head coach Josh Heupel near the top of its most recent head coaching rankings—and it’s easy to see why. With the trajectory of the Tennessee football program rising rapidly under his leadership, ESPN’s decision was less a bold take and more a reflection of undeniable progress on Rocky Top.
Since taking the reins in Knoxville, Heupel has orchestrated a dramatic turnaround. What was once a program buried under inconsistent play and coaching instability is now one of the most exciting and explosive teams in the nation. The Volunteers’ offense, in particular, has become a trademark of Heupel’s tenure, known for its high speed, creativity, and relentless scoring ability.
ESPN’s rankings list, which evaluates head coaches based on recent performance, recruiting prowess, player development, and program direction, highlighted Heupel’s quick success and consistent improvement since arriving in 2021. After a 7-6 record in his debut season, Heupel led Tennessee to an 11-2 record in 2022, including a win over Alabama and an Orange Bowl victory over Clemson—both monumental achievements for a program that hadn’t enjoyed such success in over a decade.
“Heupel has injected energy, confidence, and belief back into a storied program,” ESPN’s analysis noted. “He’s recruiting at a top-tier level, developing quarterbacks into Heisman candidates, and winning on the field against the best competition. That combination makes it impossible to leave him out of the upper echelon.”
The Vols’ high-octane offensive scheme, which led the nation in total offense during the 2022 season, has quickly become a nightmare for opposing defenses. That success, coupled with strong recruiting classes and key transfer additions, has laid the foundation for Tennessee to compete for SEC titles and beyond.
While some skeptics questioned whether Heupel’s fast-paced offensive system could sustain long-term success in the SEC’s traditionally physical, defense-first environment, he has already provided answers. The Vols have not only kept up with the conference’s best—they’ve beaten them.
With college football entering a new era of playoff expansion and conference realignment, coaching stability and innovation are more important than ever. That’s exactly what Heupel brings to Tennessee, and ESPN clearly recognizes it. He isn’t just building hype—he’s building a powerhouse.
Fans across the Volunteer State have embraced Heupel’s vision, and expectations have shifted accordingly. Tennessee is no longer hoping to be competitive—they’re expecting to contend. And with a coach like Josh Heupel leading the charge, those expectations are grounded in reality.
ESPN’s rankings simply reflect what Vols fans have already known: Josh Heupel isn’t just good—he’s one of the best in the game right now. And with the 2024 season approaching, all eyes will be on Knoxville to see how high he can take Tennessee next.
