On Tuesday morning, Tennessee’s football staff took to the media podium in Knoxville to provide updates and insights on the team’s progress heading into their final regular-season game against in-state rival Vanderbilt. Running backs coach De’Rail Sims and defensive backs coach Willie Martinez kicked off the day with their remarks, answering questions on the Vols’ recent dominant 56-0 win over UTEP and previewing the upcoming rivalry matchup.
Coach Sims, who has overseen the development of Tennessee’s running backs, started the media session by discussing the strong performances from his players, particularly Dylan Sampson. Sampson has been a standout performer throughout the season, contributing significantly to the team’s offensive efforts. Sims spoke to the running back’s evolution, noting how Sampson has grown into a reliable and dynamic asset for the Vols. He highlighted Sampson’s ability to make big plays, his vision on the field, and his work ethic, which has made him a key contributor in both the running and passing game. Sims expressed satisfaction with Sampson’s development and emphasized how crucial it has been to the Vols’ success this season.
Sims also took time to reflect on the contributions of freshman running back Peyton Lewis, who has quickly made his presence felt. Lewis, who is in his first season with Tennessee, has shown flashes of potential and is already starting to make a mark in the Vols’ offensive scheme. Sims explained how Lewis has impressed coaches with his versatility and ability to adjust to the fast-paced college game. Despite being a freshman, Lewis has been able to contribute in multiple facets of the offense, and Sims is excited to see how he continues to progress in the coming seasons. Lewis’s contributions are particularly significant as the team looks to add depth and balance to its running back corps.
After Coach Sims, defensive backs coach Willie Martinez took the microphone to discuss the Vols’ defense as they prepare to face Vanderbilt’s mobile quarterback. Martinez outlined the challenges that come with facing a quarterback who can create plays with both his arm and his legs, noting that Vanderbilt’s dual-threat quarterback is capable of making explosive plays both in the passing game and when scrambling. Martinez emphasized the importance of maintaining disciplined coverage while being mindful of the quarterback’s ability to break free and extend plays. The defensive backs will need to be sharp, as they will be tasked with containing the quarterback’s mobility while ensuring they stay in coverage.
Martinez also spoke highly of freshman defensive back Boo Carter, who has been steadily improving over the course of the season. Carter, who is known for his speed and playmaking ability, has impressed coaches with his growth, especially in recent weeks. Martinez noted how Carter has begun to take on more responsibility in the defensive backfield and has shown the maturity needed to handle bigger assignments. Carter’s development has been a pleasant surprise, and Martinez is eager to see how he performs as the season progresses, especially in the high-stakes rivalry game against Vanderbilt.
The press conference also included remarks from a pair of Tennessee players—defensive lineman Jayson Jenkins and safety Andre Turrentine—who both provided their thoughts on the team’s preparation for the upcoming game. Jenkins spoke about the defensive line’s focus on being disruptive and maintaining pressure throughout the game, particularly against Vanderbilt’s offense. He noted the importance of staying disciplined in the trenches and controlling the line of scrimmage to limit Vanderbilt’s ability to generate offense.
Turrentine, on the other hand, offered insights into the secondary’s preparations as they get ready to face a dynamic quarterback and a potent passing game. Turrentine emphasized the need for the defense to remain focused and execute their assignments, particularly in keeping Vanderbilt’s playmakers in check. He acknowledged the challenge that comes with facing a rival like Vanderbilt, where emotions can run high and the intensity is always elevated.
As the Vols look to wrap up the regular season, the team is focused on continuing to improve and avoid complacency, even after such a dominant win over UTEP. The 56-0 victory served as a confidence booster, but the players and coaches know that the stakes will be higher when they face Vanderbilt on the road. The rivalry game presents a unique set of challenges, and Tennessee will need to be at its best to close out the season with a victory and carry momentum into the postseason.
The Vols’ coaching staff, led by head coach Josh Heupel, has emphasized the importance of staying focused and maintaining a sense of urgency, particularly as they prepare for an intense matchup against a team that will be motivated to play spoiler. Tennessee’s defense, with players like Jenkins and Turrentine leading the charge, will be key in limiting Vanderbilt’s offensive production. Meanwhile, the running back group, spearheaded by Sims, will continue to play an essential role in ensuring the Vols’ offense remains balanced and efficient.
Overall, Tennessee is poised to enter the rivalry contest with a sense of purpose, and the team will rely on the contributions of key players like Sampson, Lewis, Carter, Jenkins, and Turrentine to finish the regular season on a high note. As the Vols prepare for the challenge of facing Vanderbilt, the focus remains on executing their game plan and getting one step closer to their postseason goals.
