Tennessee Vols head coach Josh Heupel didn’t hold back in praising senior wide receiver Bru McCoy after the Vols’ commanding 56-0 victory over UTEP on Senior Day at Neyland Stadium. Likely playing his final game in Knoxville unless Tennessee secures a College Football Playoff home matchup, McCoy made the most of the occasion with a standout performance that captured the admiration of his coach.
McCoy recorded four receptions for 37 yards, scoring his first two touchdowns of the 2024 season. While the game itself was a significant milestone, Heupel’s post-game comments underscored just how much McCoy has meant to Tennessee’s football program.
Heupel’s High Praise
Speaking about McCoy’s contributions, Heupel reflected on the senior’s journey and the impact he’s had on the team.
“It was great to see him get those opportunities and take advantage of them,” Heupel said. “Special to see him finish it out that way today on Senior Day. He’s meant so much to us, this program, and to me.”
Heupel went on to describe McCoy as one of the best team players he’s ever coached.
“Bru’s one of the greatest team guys I’ve ever been around,” Heupel continued. “[He] will do anything for anyone. Will play without the ball in his hands as hard as anybody I’ve been around. Takes great pride in that.”
A Resilient Teammate
McCoy, who transferred to Tennessee from USC in 2022, hasn’t posted eye-popping stats this season, but Heupel emphasized his unselfishness and ability to reset after missed opportunities.
“There’s been some opportunities, and we just hadn’t connected on them. You watch him after one of those plays, and he resets to the next play as well as anybody,” Heupel explained. “Today was cool just to see him connect and finish on a couple of big plays. Really excited for him and his family.”
A Legacy Beyond the Stats
McCoy’s contributions to Tennessee go far beyond his on-field production. The California native has played a pivotal role in shaping the team’s culture since his arrival in Knoxville. His dedication, work ethic, and team-first mentality have set a standard for others to follow, making him an integral part of the Vols’ rise under Heupel’s leadership.
While McCoy’s career at Tennessee is nearing its end, his legacy as a player and teammate will endure. Heupel’s heartfelt tribute highlights the profound impact McCoy has had on the program during his three seasons with the Vols.
As Tennessee looks ahead to the remainder of the season and a potential playoff berth, McCoy’s contributions—both tangible and intangible—serve as a reminder of the values that have propelled the team to success.
McCoy may be leaving Neyland Stadium, but his influence on Tennessee football will be felt for years to come.
